Reformer Pilates

The Reformer is a bed-like frame with a movable carriage that is attached to springs and ropes. The resistance provided by the springs and ropes can be adjusted to make the exercises easier or more challenging.

Pilates done using the Pilates Reformer machine can be more intense and dynamic than mat-based Pilates. However, the intensity can be varied considerably from one person to the next, making it an incredibly versatile piece of equipment for both workouts and rehab.

Pilates Reformer exercises usually work muscles through a large range of motion, which is ideal for building and toning muscles, increasing stability through the joints, relieving back pain, and building bone density. Reformer Pilates works the entire body, including the peripheral muscles of the arms and legs.

The Reformer is the most versatile and effective piece of exercise equipment ever made... plus, it’s great fun!

Reformer classes at Return to Life Pilates are semi-private.

  • Beginner Reformer, Strength and Mobility Reformer - Level 1

    This class is designed for absolute beginners or anyone transitioning from Mat Pilates to Reformer. It’s your entry point into Reformer Pilates and ideal if you prefer a slower pace and a focus on foundational movement.

    You’ll learn the essential Pilates principles—awareness, breath, and control—while becoming confident using the Reformer safely and effectively. Expect beginner-friendly exercises and simple sequences that help you build coordination, concentration, and overall cognitive function.
    Reformer Pilates provides a full-body workout, helping to improve posture, strengthen your core, and enhance flexibility, balance, and overall movement quality.

    Strength and Mobility Reformer - Level 1: Expect a steady, approachable workout that focuses on developing foundational strength, improving joint mobility, and learning to use the Reformer with confidence. You’ll move through functional, full-body exercises with the option to incorporate light weights or small props to enhance your strength work. The emphasis is on controlled movement, breath, and body awareness, helping you increase flexibility, stability, and coordination.

    New to Reformer?
    We offer an Intro Package for NEW clients, which includes one Private 1:1 session—the perfect way to begin your Reformer Pilates journey.
    If you have no previous Reformer experience, an Intro 1:1 session is required before joining.

    Once you feel comfortable with the Reformer and basic exercises, you can progress to our Improver Level class.

    Please note:
    Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Late cancellations are non-refundable.

  • Improver Reformer, Strength and Mobility Reformer - Level 2

    This class is designed for clients who have built confidence and consistency on the Reformer and are ready to progress beyond the beginner level. It’s suitable for those with regular Reformer experience or anyone who has been recommended by an instructor to move into Level 2.

    Expect a more dynamic, flowing session that expands on foundational skills while challenging your strength, mobility, coordination, and overall body control. You’ll explore a wider variety of Reformer movements, progressing your full-body strength, flexibility, and mobility through more complex and creative sequences.

    This class places strong emphasis on posture, core stability, and precise alignment, making it an excellent complement to other forms of exercise. It helps refine technique, reduce injury risk, and improve efficiency in everyday movement.

    Strength and Mobility Reformer - Level 2: Expect a dynamic, targeted session that builds on foundational skills while challenging full-body strength, joint mobility, stability, and coordination. You’ll explore a wider range of functional, mobility-focused exercises, incorporating varied spring resistance, props, and flowing sequences to enhance both power and movement quality.

    Progression Note: Please speak with your instructor before joining this class. It is not suitable for random single-class drop-ins and requires an appropriate level of Reformer experience for safety and flow.

    Please note: Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Late cancellations are non-refundable.

  • Intermediate Reformer, Strength and Mobility Reformer, Jump and Core Reformer - Level 3

    This level is designed for clients who have developed strong confidence, coordination, and consistency on the Reformer and are ready to progress beyond the Improver (Level 2) stage. It is suitable for those with substantial Reformer experience or clients who have been recommended by an instructor to move into Level 3. Please note: Level 3 is not suitable for clients with injuries.

    Expect a faster-paced, more dynamic, and challenging session that builds on all foundational skills while pushing your strength, mobility, coordination, balance, and overall body control. You’ll work through more complex combinations, multidirectional movement patterns, and stronger resistance settings, exploring the full potential of the Pilates Reformer.

    This level emphasises power, precision, and endurance, refining posture, enhancing core stability, and elevating technique. It’s an ideal complement to other types of training, helping you move with greater efficiency, speed, and control both inside and outside the studio.

    Strength and Mobility Reformer Level 3: This class places strong emphasis on progressive strength training, deeper joint mobility work, and refined alignment, helping you build power, resilience, and advanced movement quality.

    Jumping and Core Reformer Level 3: This class incorporates more athletic jumping sequences, faster transitions, and advanced core challenges, improving power, stamina, and dynamic control using the Reformer Jumpboard and core-focused variations.
    Progression Note: Please speak with your instructor before joining any Level 3 class. These sessions are not suitable for drop-in bookings and require an intermediate level of Reformer experience for safety, flow, and enjoyment.

    Please note: Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Late cancellations are non-refundable.

  • Advanced Reformer - Level 4

    This class is designed for highly experienced clients who have developed strong technical skill, body awareness, and control on the Reformer. It is intended for those who have consistently trained at Intermediate (Level 3) and have been specifically recommended by an instructor to progress.
    Please note: Level 4 is not suitable for clients with injuries.

    Expect a powerful, fast-paced, and highly challenging session that builds on advanced Pilates principles. You’ll work through complex sequences, stronger resistance settings, and multidirectional movement patterns that require precision, endurance, agility, and excellent control.

    This level explores the full capacity of the Reformer with high-level strength work, deep flexibility challenges, and advanced coordination drills. You’ll also work with a variety of props—such as the Pilates ring, hand weights, or resistance bands—to intensify load and complexity.

    Advanced Reformer is designed to improve athletic performance, functional strength, dynamic stability, and movement efficiency, offering an elevated and invigorating training experience for committed practitioners.

    Progression Note:
    Entry to Level 4 requires instructor approval. This class is not suitable for drop-in bookings and demands advanced Reformer experience for safety and flow.

    Please note:
    Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Late cancellations are non-refundable.

  • Men’s Reformer — All Levels (Men only)

    Discover the power of Reformer Pilates designed specifically for men. This dynamic, full-body session blends strength, mobility, and active stretching to target areas where men typically hold tension—hips, hamstrings, chest, and lower back—while also developing core stability and balanced functional strength.

    The class includes focused mobility work, strength-based sequences, and controlled flexibility training to improve posture, enhance performance in sport and strength training, and support long-term joint health.

    Expect a strong, purposeful flow that challenges stability and coordination while increasing range of motion in a safe, effective way.

    This session is suitable for men who are already active, body-aware, and comfortable in a workout environment.

    If you are completely new to the Reformer, an Intro 1:1 or Level 1 Reformer class is required before joining, regardless of general fitness level.

    Please note: Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Late cancellations are non-refundable.

  • Reformer 60+ — Supportive, Osteoporosis-Safe Pilates

    This specialised class is designed for clients aged 60+ who want a safe, confidence-building Pilates experience on the Reformer. Ideal for those managing osteoporosis, post-rehab needs, age-related mobility changes, or mild injuries, this session offers a gentle yet effective approach to improving strength, mobility, and balance.

    An Intro 1:1 session is required before joining this class to ensure safe movement patterns, personalised modifications, and familiarity with the equipment.

    Expect a slow-paced, supportive environment where you’ll work through carefully selected Reformer and Mat-based exercises focused on:

    Improving joint mobility and overall movement ease

    Building functional strength, particularly in the legs, hips, and core

    Enhancing balance and coordination

    Increasing confidence in everyday activities

    Supporting bone health with osteoporosis-safe repertoire

    Your instructor will provide clear guidance, tailored modifications, and ongoing support to make sure each exercise feels accessible and beneficial—never rushed or intimidating.

    Please note:
    Cancellations must be made at least 24 hours in advance. Late cancellations are non-refundable.