Beginner Reformer Pilates: can a beginner do Reformer Pilates?
Can you start with beginner Reformer Pilates? Yes, with the right instruction. Read one client's story and what to expect in your first class.
Yes, a beginner can absolutely do Reformer Pilates. The Reformer’s springs can be set light or heavy and every exercise has a modification, so beginner Reformer Pilates is safe and effective as long as you learn the basics with a qualified instructor in a small class. Where beginners run into trouble is in big, fast classes with no one to correct their form. Below, one of our clients shares what went wrong the first time and what made the difference, plus what to expect when you start.
Can a beginner do Reformer Pilates?
The Reformer is a bed-like frame with a sliding carriage, springs and straps. That might look intimidating, but the machine actually helps beginners in several ways:
- Adjustable resistance: springs can be made lighter or heavier to match your strength.
- Support: the carriage and footbar support your body, which many people with stiff joints or limited mobility find reassuring.
- Feedback: the moving carriage shows you quickly when you are losing control, so you learn good form faster.
What matters most is instruction. A beginner needs someone to explain the set-up, teach the breathing and alignment basics, and watch their form. That is why we start every new client with a beginner assessment before they join a group class. To learn more about the machine itself, read our guide to what the Pilates Reformer does.
A beginner’s story: why the first attempt failed
A few years ago, one of our clients had never really heard of Pilates. When it started trending on social media, she booked classes at her local gym. She did not enjoy them at all. She was learning by watching around twenty strangers, many of them athletes, CrossFitters, runners and dancers. Nobody corrected her form, and the instructor used terms she had never heard. After a month her back was hurting and she felt worse than before she started, so she decided Pilates was not for her.
This is a common story, and it is not a sign that Pilates is wrong for you. It is a sign that large, unsupervised classes are a poor way to learn.
What changed: starting beginner Reformer Pilates the right way
Some time later she came across Pilates Dynamics and booked an orientation. Her instructors were hands-on from the start and quickly showed her that her form was worse than she had realised. A month of gym classes had never picked it up.
She was nervous about group classes after her earlier experience, but a few things put her at ease:
- Small groups. The instructor could move around the room and correct everyone who needed help.
- Space. There was plenty of room between the Reformers, Towers, Wunda Chairs and Cadillac, so a wide variety of exercises could be done comfortably.
- Modifications. The instructors offered an easier or harder option for every exercise, which suited a beginner perfectly.
Years later she still attends classes twice a week, and loves them.
What equipment will you use as a beginner?
Pilates Dynamics is a well-equipped studio, so as you progress you can move beyond the Reformer.
Large equipment classes
Reformers, Wunda Chairs, Towers, ladder barrels, spine corrector barrels and the Cadillac.
Mat and small equipment classes
TRX, ballet barre, Bosu balls, kettlebells, large, small and weighted balls, resistance bands, free weights, medicine balls and rebounders (mini trampolines).
If you are not sure whether to start on the mat or the Reformer, our guide for Pilates beginners walks you through your options.
Frequently asked questions
Should I do mat Pilates before the Reformer?
Not necessarily. Many beginners start straight on the Reformer after their assessment. Mat work is a great complement, and many clients do one of each per week.
How often should a beginner do Reformer Pilates?
Twice a week is a good target for steady progress. Once a week still helps if that is what fits your schedule.
What if I have an injury?
Check with your doctor or physio first. Private classes, or guidance from our biokineticist, Aurelie, are a good way to start safely.
Start Reformer Pilates in Johannesburg
Beginners are always welcome. Book your 55-minute beginner assessment with posture analysis, view the class timetable and current prices, or call 011 792 5459 / 072 999 2229 or email info@pilatesdynamics.co.za.
