Reformer Pilates in St. Albert: A Complete Beginner's Guide

Reformer Pilates has become one of the most searched fitness classes in St. Albert and Edmonton, and for good reason. It builds long, strong muscles, it is gentle on the joints, and it is adaptable for everyone from complete beginners to athletes. If you are considering your first reformer class at Afitness Pilates, this guide answers the questions we hear most often.

What is a Pilates reformer?

A reformer is a piece of Pilates equipment that looks like a low bed frame with a sliding platform called the carriage. The carriage is attached to a set of springs that provide adjustable resistance. You push, pull, and stabilize against the springs using a foot bar, straps for your hands or feet, and the carriage itself. By changing which springs are attached, the same exercise can be made lighter or heavier.

The reformer was designed by Joseph Pilates nearly a century ago and remains the foundation of equipment based Pilates today.

What is a reformer Pilates class like at Afitness?

Reformer classes at Afitness run 50 minutes: a five minute warm up, about 40 minutes of work, and a five minute cool down. A typical class moves through footwork, core series, arm and leg work with the straps, lunges and squats on the carriage, and standing or kneeling balance work. Instructors give spring settings for each exercise and offer lighter or heavier options. The pace is controlled and precise, but do not mistake that for easy. Reformer classes at Afitness are known for being challenging in a way that leaves your muscles shaking.

Is reformer Pilates good for beginners?

Yes. Reformer Pilates is one of the most beginner friendly strength formats available because the springs support you as much as they challenge you. Afitness reformer classes are open to all levels. In your first class the instructor will show you how to set up the reformer, how to change springs safely, and how to get on and off the carriage. Expect to spend some of your first class simply learning the equipment. By the second or third class the setup becomes automatic and you can focus on the work.

Is reformer Pilates hard?

It can be as hard as you make it. The same exercise with heavy springs is a strength exercise and with light springs becomes a stability and control exercise, which is often harder than it sounds. Beginners usually find the leg and glute work demanding and the core series humbling. Most people are pleasantly sore for a day or two after their first few classes.

What are the benefits of reformer Pilates?

• Full body strength, with particular emphasis on the core, glutes, inner and outer thighs, and upper back

• Improved posture and spinal mobility

• Low impact training that is gentle on knees, hips, and the lower back

• Better balance and body awareness

• Longer, leaner looking muscles from working through full ranges of motion under control

• A useful complement to running, weight training, and sports

Reformer vs mat Pilates: what is the difference?

Mat Pilates uses your bodyweight and small props on the floor. Reformer Pilates uses spring resistance on the machine. Mat work demands more from your core because there is nothing to support you. Reformer work allows for heavier loading of the legs and arms, more variety, and more support for beginners and anyone with joint concerns. Many Afitness members do both. Our mix membership includes reformer and hot mat classes so you can build a weekly routine with both formats.

Is reformer Pilates heated?

No. Reformer classes at Afitness are taught in a room temperature studio. Our heated classes are hot mat Pilates, hot barre, and hot strength. If you love heat but want reformer strength, many members pair two reformer classes with two heated classes each week.

What should I wear to reformer Pilates?

Fitted leggings or shorts and a fitted top. Loose clothing can catch in the springs and straps. Grip socks are required on the reformer for hygiene and traction. Avoid clothing with zippers or metal that could scratch the equipment. Tie long hair back so it does not catch in the carriage.

Can I do reformer Pilates if I am pregnant or have an injury?

Reformer Pilates can be adapted for many conditions, but you must tell the instructor and provide medical clearance before participating if you are pregnant, think you may be pregnant, or have a medical condition. Afitness is located above Adam Physio and Wellness, and many clients recovering from injury combine physiotherapy with reformer classes under guidance from their physiotherapist.

How often should I do reformer Pilates?

Two to three reformer classes per week produces noticeable changes in strength and posture for most people within four to eight weeks. Our 12 class monthly reformer membership is built around three classes per week, and the unlimited reformer membership suits anyone who wants to come four or more times.

How much does reformer Pilates cost in St. Albert?

At Afitness, new clients can try one week of unlimited reformer classes for $59. Drop in reformer classes are $35, class packs start at 5 classes for $149, and monthly reformer memberships are available in 12 class and unlimited options. Full details are in our pricing guide.

How many people are in a reformer class?

Reformer classes are small by nature because each person needs their own machine. This means you get far more individual attention than in a large group fitness class, and the instructor can correct your form throughout.

Where can I take reformer Pilates near Edmonton?

Afitness Pilates is a women only reformer and hot Pilates studio at 20 Circle Drive, Unit 10, St. Albert, on the second floor. We serve women from St. Albert, north and west Edmonton, Sturgeon County, and Morinville. Classes are booked through Momence and the live schedule is on our site.

Book your first class at Afitness

New to Afitness? Try one week of unlimited hot classes for $29 or one week of unlimited reformer for $59. Check the live schedule and the studio policy before you arrive. Afitness Pilates is a women only reformer and hot Pilates studio at 20 Circle Drive, Unit 10, St. Albert, Alberta, on the second floor above Adam Physio and Wellness. Email info@afitness.ca or follow @afitnesspilates on Instagram.

Related reading: pricing guide, first class guide, and hot Pilates guide.