Hello Readers,
I came across some influencer content on Reformer Pilates on social media, and I found myself asking whether it is worth doing or if it’s just a social media trend.
Is it worth it in terms of results, mental health improvements, and meeting new people, or is it just a trend in terms of aesthetically cute gym sets or a picturesque studio?
Building on what I’ve seen, I heard a lot of praise in the online health and fitness community and from influencers, especially in the physical results department (toned abs, improved strength, weight loss).
Before I continue, I noticed a recurring advert online for an AI-based Pilates subscription programme that has received many negative reviews. However, I won’t focus on this here, as this post is about REFORMER PILATES, not mat.
Anyway, since I am looking for a third space and trying to improve my health, I took a few reformer classes. One was at a Reformer Pilates studio in Gravesend town centre, and another was quite far outside of Gravesend town. I went to both studios in Gravesend last year and earlier this month for my birthday.
This Pilates studio has a high rating of 4.9 stars, and to be honest, I had a positive experience.
I went to their website and scheduled a reformer class on a Saturday morning.
When I arrived, I sat in the waiting area since I had come early, and another class was just wrapping up. While waiting, I took some photos to post on Instagram.
When the previous class finished, I got up, placed my stuff in the changing area, and sat on one of the reformer sets.
Since this happened almost a year ago, I can’t fully remember the reformer Pilates exercise positioning names, but I remember the feeling, and it was… tough.
The instructor was helpful and nice, but I couldn’t understand what she was talking about because I was already exhausted.
Since I didn’t understand the Reformer Pilates terminology, I watched another woman to see if I was doing it properly and for guidance.
At one point, I laughed out of exhaustion and pain since I had never experienced any level of soreness, ranging from 1-10; it was a 10 (hardcore).
After the session, I asked the instructor if she does 1:2:1’s since I wanted to continue, but not with a group of people. However, it didn’t happen because I was ill for two months and had to do light exercises.
Second experience: Mindful Movement Studio
For my birthday week, my sister and I attended a Reformer Pilates class earlier this month, and it was easier than expected; maybe because my fitness level has improved (I’ve been doing Chloe Ting workouts for almost two months and jogging) or because it was my second rodeo.
To book it, I had to download an app, then add my details – which took some time.
One thing I noticed was how the spots run out FAST!
There were options to choose from: Reformer, Barre, and mat or HOT Pilates.
Like CORE Reformer, it has different levels from beginner to intermediate, and of course, I picked beginner (I’m not ready for intermediate yet).
When it came to prices, I paid 2 for £35 (new client offer – 2 sessions valid for one month).
After that was paid and a week later, I arrived really early and tried to get in, but I couldn’t because…it was locked. I checked on Google the opening and closing times and found out it wasn’t open until half 5, it was 20 minutes earlier.
While waiting, a lady came towards the door and opened it and I was like… it was opened the whole time???
I followed her into the studio and greeted the instructor. I sat on a reformer and waited for everyone else to arrive (including my sister).
When my sister arrived (she was the last person and was late), we started with some introductions to the machine and demonstrated some techniques. We then did some leg lunges (which made my legs shake) and other exercises (I can’t remember the names since I’m still learning).
Did a cooldown too, and after, I enjoyed it 100%. My sister also liked it.
Since I enjoyed the experience, I’ll be going there again soon.
My overall thoughts: Pricing, booking, exercise experience and the commute
Core Reformer
Pricing: Great deals for first timers, but expensive to continue.
Booking experience: Quick and easy.
Pilates experience: It was okay, but I struggled a lot.
The commute: Simple since I live close.
Mindful movement studio
Pricing: Same pricing as CORE Reformer
Booking experience: Easy, but quick when joining.
Pilates experience: It was great, and I struggled less due to gaining experience.
The commute: Simple, as I live close.
Final question: Is it worth the hype or just a social media trend?
It’s definitely worth the hype; however, the popularity might die down, and people will move on to another social media trend.
I’ll still go, even if it becomes irrelevant!
Thanks for clicking this post and reading.
I enjoyed going to both reformer Pilates studios and planning on going back.
There’s another studio that just recently opened called peaches, which I’m planning to book some classes.
Before this ends, I have a question for you!
Do you think reformer or Pilates in general is worth the hype or just a social media trend?
Thetaslifestyle 