The Scoop

One of the most common questions we get asked is: what's the difference between Reformer Pilates and Mat Pilates?

The truth is, Reformer Pilates and Mat Pilates were developed alongside each other, so while the way you experience each class is different, the core Pilates principles remain exactly the same. Both focus on breathing, core engagement, control, mobility, posture, and mindful movement.

What Makes Reformer Pilates Different?

The biggest difference is that instead of exercising on a mat, you use a Reformer machine that provides both support and resistance through a system of springs.

These springs can be adjusted to make exercises more challenging or more supportive, making Reformer Pilates suitable for beginners, experienced Pilates practitioners, and those recovering from injury.

Because of the unique set-up of the Reformer, you're able to achieve a more varied full-body workout. The machine allows you to work your arms, legs, core, back, and glutes through a wide range of movement patterns that can be difficult to replicate on a mat alone.

Exercises such as footwork help strengthen the legs through squat-like movements, while supported extension exercises can improve posture, strengthen the back of the body, and help counteract the effects of long hours spent sitting at a desk.

Are the Exercises the Same?

If you've tried Mat Pilates before, you'll recognise some familiar exercises, movements, and terminology. However, the springs, straps, and moving carriage of the Reformer create a completely different experience.

The additional resistance challenges your strength, while the support of the machine can help you move more freely, improve mobility, and explore a greater range of motion.

Many people find that Reformer Pilates helps them build strength, improve flexibility, enhance balance, and develop better body awareness more quickly.

Should I Choose Reformer Pilates or Mat Pilates?

We don't think you need to choose one or the other.

Both Reformer Pilates and Mat Pilates offer fantastic benefits, and they complement each other beautifully. Mat Pilates is excellent for developing body awareness and core control, while Reformer Pilates adds resistance, support, and greater exercise variety.

If your schedule allows, finding a combination that works for you can give you the best of both worlds. Whether that's two Mat Pilates classes and one Reformer Pilates class each week, or the other way around, you'll benefit from a well-rounded Pilates practice.

At Core Connexion, we love helping people discover how Pilates can support their strength, mobility, posture, and overall wellbeing. Whether you're new to Pilates or looking to deepen your practice, we're proud to welcome clients from Wokingham, Reading and across Berkshire into our studio.

For many of us, exercise can become something we feel we should do rather than something we genuinely enjoy.

We’re often surrounded by messages about pushing harder, doing more and chasing results — but movement can be so much more than that.

At Core Connexion, we believe building a healthy relationship with exercise starts with finding movement that feels good for your body and your mind.

Moving Without Pressure

A Pilates retreat gives you the opportunity to step away from the usual pressures of everyday life and reconnect with movement in a different way.

Instead of squeezing in a workout between commitments, you have time to slow down, focus on your body and enjoy the experience of moving.

Through Pilates, breathwork, relaxation and mindful movement, you can begin to understand what your body needs and what makes you feel your best.

Discover What You Enjoy

One of the biggest parts of creating a sustainable exercise routine is finding something you actually look forward to.

Whether that’s a challenging Pilates class, a gentle stretch, a countryside walk or simply taking time to rest, movement doesn’t have to look one particular way to be valuable.

A Pilates retreat gives you space to explore different ways of moving and discover what feels right for you.

Returning Home With a Fresh Perspective

The goal of a wellness retreat isn’t to completely change your routine overnight.

It’s about creating moments where you can reconnect with yourself, enjoy movement again and take those feelings home with you.

Because when exercise becomes something you enjoy rather than something you have to do, it becomes much easier to build habits that last.

At Core Connexion Retreats, we believe movement should leave you feeling stronger, calmer and more connected — both during your retreat and long after you return home.

People often say Pilates is great during pregnancy, but how do you actually get started? And is Reformer Pilates safe during pregnancy?

Don’t worry, we’ve got you.

As always, if you have any concerns during your pregnancy, please seek advice from your healthcare professional. Every pregnancy is different, and listening to your body is always the most important thing.

Let’s break this down into two sections: if you’ve never done Pilates before, and if you’ve already been practising Reformer Pilates for a while.

If You’ve Never Done Pilates Before

If you’re completely new to Pilates, we recommend starting with a private Reformer Pilates session.

This gives your instructor the chance to understand your body, your experience, and your goals, while also giving you time to get comfortable using the Reformer machine.

The springs, straps, and moving carriage can feel very different at first, and pregnancy can naturally affect your balance, mobility, and energy levels.

Your instructor can then advise whether group Reformer Pilates classes, private sessions, or our dedicated Pre- and Post-Natal Pilates classes would be the best option for you.

If You’ve Done Pilates Before

If Reformer Pilates is already part of your routine, you can usually continue with adjustments as your pregnancy progresses.

During your first trimester, you can continue with your usual classes if they feel comfortable. However, we always recommend letting your instructor know you’re pregnant so they can offer modifications when needed.

For example, you may want adjustments if certain positions no longer feel comfortable. If you’d prefer to keep your pregnancy private during the early weeks, just let your instructor know what you’re comfortable with.

As you move into your second trimester, you can continue with Dynamic Reformer and Recovery Reformer classes, but some classes are not suitable during pregnancy due to balance demands and movement intensity. This includes Challenge Reformer, Reformer X Barre, and Yoga Flow Reformer.

As you reach your third trimester, we recommend moving into Pre- and Post-Natal Reformer Pilates classes, where exercises are specifically designed to support your changing body.

Pre- and Post-Natal Reformer Pilates

Our Pre- and Post-Natal Pilates classes are designed to support you throughout pregnancy and your postnatal journey.

Led by specially qualified instructors, these classes focus on safe, effective movement that supports strength, mobility, posture, and overall wellbeing.

They’re a chance to move in a way that feels right for your body, while giving you dedicated time to focus on yourself.

Remember: Your Body Is Doing A Lot

Pregnancy is a huge physical journey, so give yourself extra time to rest, recover, and hydrate.

If you need to choose the gentler option, reduce your class frequency, swap a stronger workout for a walk, or enjoy a stretch at home – do it.

The goal of pregnancy Pilates isn’t to push through. It’s to support your body, connect with your movement, and do what feels right for you.

Join our Pre- and Post-Natal Reformer Pilates classes at Core Connexion in Wokingham and Reading, supporting mums-to-be and new mums across Berkshire.

When we started creating Core Connexion Retreats, we didn't want them to feel like bootcamps or back-to-back fitness weekends.

We wanted them to feel like the kind of break we'd choose ourselves.

A retreat where movement is something to enjoy, not something to tick off. Where rest isn't something you have to earn. Where great food is part of the experience. And where genuine connection happens naturally when you slow down and spend time with like-minded people.

Movement

Movement has always been at the heart of Core Connexion.

Our Pilates classes are designed to help you build strength, improve mobility and reconnect with your body, but we also believe movement should feel enjoyable. That's why our retreats include a variety of Pilates styles, giving you the freedom to move in a way that feels good for you.

Rest

In everyday life, we're constantly busy.

Our wellness retreats are intentionally designed with space to slow down. Whether that's reading by the pool, enjoying a quiet coffee, taking an afternoon nap or simply sitting in the sunshine, we believe rest is just as important as movement.

Food

We think great food is one of the best parts of any holiday, so why should a wellness retreat be any different?

Forget restrictive meal plans or juice cleanses. Our retreats are built around delicious, nourishing meals that bring people together. Every menu is thoughtfully created to fuel your body, celebrate local ingredients where possible, and remind you that eating well should always be enjoyable.

Connection

One of the most unexpected parts of every retreat is the friendships that grow throughout the weekend.

From Pilates classes and shared meals to countryside walks and creative workshops, there's plenty of opportunity to connect with like-minded people. Many of our guests arrive on their own and leave with friends they'll stay in touch with long after the retreat has ended.

At the heart of every Core Connexion Retreat is a simple belief: when you balance movement, rest, great food and connection, you return home feeling stronger, calmer and more like yourself.

That's the feeling we hope every guest takes home with them.

To be honest? No!

At Core Connexion, we believe the best form of exercise is the one you genuinely enjoy. Because when you love the way you move, you’re more likely to stay consistent, enjoy your sessions, and build a routine that supports your body and mind.

And when we talk about results, we don’t mean what you see in the mirror. We mean moving more easily, building strength, lifting heavier, improving mobility, and feeling better in your everyday life.

Finding The Right Balance

If you love Reformer Pilates, that’s amazing (and we’re so happy to have you here!). Reformer Pilates is a fantastic full-body workout that can help improve strength, flexibility, posture, balance, and body awareness.

But movement doesn’t have to be just one thing.

If you also love running, weight training, hiking, yoga, stand-up paddleboarding, or anything else that gets you moving, find a routine that includes the things you enjoy.

The best exercise schedule is one that works for your lifestyle – whether that means mixing different workouts throughout your week or changing things up throughout the month.

Reformer Pilates + Everyday Movement

If Reformer Pilates is your favourite form of exercise, we’d still encourage adding in some simple movement outside the studio.

A couple of walks each week can be a great way to get fresh air, support your mental wellbeing, and complement your Pilates practice.

A strong body is even stronger when paired with a healthy mind.

Explore our full Reformer Pilates timetable here and find the classes that fit your routine.

Join us for Reformer Pilates in central Wokingham and central Reading.

Thinking about your next getaway? If you're looking to return home feeling refreshed, recharged and stronger, a Pilates retreat could be exactly what you need.

Here are five reasons our guests choose a Core Connexion Pilates Retreat over a traditional holiday.

1. Smaller Groups, More Space

With a maximum of just 14 guests, our Pilates retreats are designed to feel relaxed and personal.

There's no rushing for sun loungers, queuing for breakfast or dressing up for dinner. Instead, you'll enjoy luxurious accommodation, peaceful surroundings and plenty of space to truly unwind.

And if your wardrobe consists mainly of activewear and pyjamas for the weekend? We completely support that.

2. Daily Pilates with Expert Guidance

Enjoy a variety of Pilates classes each day, from strength-focused sessions and Pilates X Barre to creative classes using props to recreate the Reformer experience.

With small group sizes, Greta can offer personalised guidance and individual adjustments, helping you get even more from every class.

3. Incredible Food

Good food is a huge part of every Core Connexion Retreat.

Forget restrictive wellness menus or juice cleanses. Instead, expect delicious, nourishing meals served family-style, giving you plenty of choice and the chance to enjoy every meal with your fellow guests.

4. Genuine Connection

Whether you're travelling solo or with friends, our retreats create space to connect with like-minded people.

From shared meals and countryside walks to creative workshops and Pilates classes, friendships naturally grow throughout the weekend.

5. Time to Focus on You

Perhaps the biggest benefit of a wellness retreat is simply having time for yourself.

Read, swim, sleep, move, explore or simply do nothing at all. However self-care looks to you, our Pilates retreats give you the time and space to enjoy it.

If you're looking for a Pilates retreat that combines movement, relaxation, great food and meaningful connection, we'd love to welcome you on a future Core Connexion Retreat.

Private Reformer Pilates sessions are the perfect option if you’re looking for a more personalised Pilates experience, with dedicated time and attention from an expert instructor.

But who are they actually for?

The answer is: more people than you might think.

Reformer Pilates Tailored To You

Unlike group Pilates classes, private Reformer Pilates sessions are completely focused on you – your body, your goals, and your movement.

Your instructor can adapt the exercises, spring settings, and pace of the session to suit exactly what you need, whether you’re building confidence as a Pilates beginner, working towards a specific goal, or looking to deepen your existing practice.

Private Pilates For Beginners

If you’re new to Reformer Pilates and feel a little nervous about joining a group class, a private session is a great way to learn the foundations.

Your instructor can take the time to explain the Reformer machine, help you understand Pilates principles, and build your confidence with breathing, core engagement, control, and movement.

Private Reformer Pilates For Injury Recovery & Strength Building

Private sessions are also ideal if you’re returning to exercise after an injury, surgery, or a period away from movement.

Your instructor can help you safely rebuild strength, improve mobility, and adapt exercises to support your body, giving you a safe and supportive space to progress.

Taking Your Pilates Practice Further

Private Reformer Pilates isn’t just for beginners.

If you’ve been practising Pilates for years, 1-to-1 sessions give you dedicated time to refine your technique, explore more advanced exercises, and develop a deeper understanding of your movement.

Your instructor can help you progress towards those challenging Reformer Pilates exercises you see online – but safely, with the strength and control needed to do them well.

Why Choose Private Reformer Pilates at Core Connexion?

At Core Connexion, our private Reformer Pilates sessions are designed around you. Our qualified instructors bring their expertise from Reformer Pilates, Mat Pilates, Yoga, Personal Training, and Pre- and Post-Natal Pilates to help you move with confidence.

Whether you’re completely new to Pilates, returning after injury, or looking to level up your practice, private sessions give you the time, attention, and guidance to achieve your goals.

Book a private Reformer Pilates session at Core Connexion and discover a more personalised way to move, build strength, and improve mobility in Wokingham and  Reading.

The short answer? Pretty much anyone!

Whether you're travelling solo, booking with friends, or simply looking for a chance to reset, our Pilates retreats are designed to help you feel welcome from the moment you arrive.

Many guests come on their own, and that's one of the things we love most about our retreats. Through shared Pilates classes, family-style meals and relaxed activities, you'll naturally get to know the rest of the group. By the end of the retreat, you'll have made new connections that often continue long after you've returned home through our retreat WhatsApp group.

What If I'm New to Pilates?

That's absolutely fine.

Our Pilates retreats are suitable for a range of experience levels, including complete beginners. Greta is experienced in adapting every Pilates class to suit your body, helping you build confidence and move at your own pace.

Before every retreat, we'll send you a short questionnaire so you can tell us about any injuries, movement restrictions or goals. This allows us to tailor classes and make sure you get the most from your Pilates retreat experience.

What About Dietary Requirements?

Great food is a huge part of every Core Connexion Retreat, and we're happy to cater for most dietary requirements.

We can accommodate vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian and gluten-free diets, provided they don't require completely separate food preparation. As all meals are prepared in the same kitchen and served family-style, we aren't able to guarantee a completely allergen-free environment.

Your pre-retreat questionnaire also gives you the opportunity to let us know about any allergies or dietary requirements, helping our chef prepare everything before you arrive.

Is a Core Connexion Retreat Right for You?

If you're looking for a Pilates retreat that combines movement, relaxation, great food and genuine connection, we'd love to welcome you.

Whether you're joining us for your first wellness retreat or returning for another adventure, you'll leave feeling stronger, refreshed and part of the Core Connexion community.

Reformer Pilates is eye-catching. You often see people on social media doing incredible things – splits, handstands, and beautiful choreography of complicated movements that can leave you thinking: “I could never do that.”

But the reality of Pilates is much simpler.

True Pilates strength isn’t built in the Instagram-worthy moments. It’s built through the foundations: strong footwork, effective core engagement, controlled mobility exercises, balance work, and learning how to move your body with confidence and control.

And that’s exactly why choosing a class with a fully qualified Reformer Pilates instructor is so important.

The Importance of a Qualified Reformer Pilates Instructor

A qualified Pilates instructor brings knowledge, experience, and guidance to every class, helping you build sustainable strength, improve mobility, and develop your Pilates practice safely.

They understand how the body moves, how exercises can be adapted, and how to support different goals – whether you’re completely new to Reformer Pilates, returning after injury, or looking to progress your skills.

Great Pilates instruction isn’t about rushing towards the most advanced-looking exercises. It’s about building a strong foundation through controlled movement, correct technique, and the mind-body connection that makes Pilates so effective.

And if you do want to work towards those impressive Reformer Pilates exercises, your instructor will help you progress safely by building the strength, flexibility, coordination, and confidence needed to get there.

Why Choose Core Connexion?

At Core Connexion Reformer Pilates Studios, every instructor is qualified in Reformer Pilates and beyond.

Many of our instructors also bring additional experience from Yoga, Mat Pilates, Personal Training, and Pre- and Post-Natal Pilates, giving you access to a wide range of knowledge and expertise.

Whether you’re joining your first ever Pilates class or looking to deepen your existing practice, our team is here to help you move with confidence.

Find out more about our instructor team here.

Join us for Reformer Pilates in Wokingham, Reading and across Berkshire, and experience the difference expert guidance can make.

We can show you the beautiful locations, Pilates classes and incredible food, but what does a Core Connexion Pilates Retreat actually look like across the weekend?

Whether you're considering a UK wellness retreat or one of our European Pilates retreats, here's a closer look at what you can expect from your time away with us.

At the heart of every retreat is the same philosophy: movement, rest, connection, great food and the chance to properly switch off from everyday life.

Our UK Pilates Retreat

Our popular three-night countryside retreat combines luxurious accommodation, expert Pilates instruction and exceptional food created in partnership with the team at Hamlet Wokingham.

Day 1: Arrive & Settle In

Arrive from 4pm and take time to settle into your room before joining your first group Pilates class. This gentle session is designed to help you stretch, unwind from your journey and get to know your host and instructor, Greta.

Dinner is served family-style, followed by a relaxed discovery session over dessert where you'll get to know your fellow guests and hosts.

Day 2: Movement, Rest & Connection

Start your day with an optional sunrise Pilates class before enjoying a leisurely breakfast.

The morning is yours to spend however you choose: swimming, reading, napping or simply enjoying some uninterrupted quiet time.

After lunch, you'll enjoy another Pilates session. Depending on the retreat, this could be Pilates for Strength, Pilates X Barre or a more traditional Pilates class.

The afternoon also includes one of our guest-favourite experiences: a guided breathwork session led by Katie.

Dinner is served family-style once again, with the option to join a cosy movie night afterwards.

Day 3: Creativity & Reflection

Enjoy a slower start to the day before another energising Pilates class.

After lunch, it's time for one of our creative workshops. Activities vary from retreat to retreat and may include vision boarding, candle painting or tote bag decorating.

As the day draws to a close, we'll come together for a final group Pilates class and guided reflection session, giving you space to appreciate everything you've experienced over the weekend.

Our final dinner is always inspired by a traditional Sunday roast — because no countryside retreat feels complete without one.

Day 4: Journey Home

Enjoy breakfast, collect a few snacks for your journey and take your time easing back into reality before heading home feeling refreshed and restored.

Our European Pilates Retreats

Our European wellness retreats include an extra night, giving you even more time to enjoy movement, relaxation and cultural experiences.

Day 1: Welcome

Settle into your accommodation, join your first Pilates class and enjoy a relaxed family-style dinner with your fellow guests.

Day 2: Wellness & Exploration

Start the day with an optional sunrise Pilates class before breakfast.

You'll then enjoy free time to relax and enjoy the retreat venue - swim, read, explore.

After lunch, you'll take part in a wellness experience such as hot and cold therapy before your afternoon Pilates class.

The day finishes with another shared dinner and relaxed evening together.

Day 3: Culture & Connection

After breakfast, you'll head out for a cultural experience unique to the destination. Previous retreats have included exploring Moroccan souks, kayaking and visiting traditional local villages.

Back at the retreat venue, you'll have time to swim, read, relax or simply enjoy the surroundings before your afternoon Pilates class and evening meal.

Day 4: Reflection & Creativity

The fourth day mirrors our UK retreats, combining movement, creativity and reflection.

Enjoy another Pilates class, a creative workshop and a final opportunity to connect with the group before your farewell dinner.

Day 5: Homeward Bound

After breakfast, it's time to head home feeling stronger, rested and inspired.

More Than a Pilates Retreat

While Pilates is at the heart of every Core Connexion Retreat, the experience is about so much more than exercise.

It's a chance to slow down, connect with like-minded people, enjoy incredible food, explore beautiful locations and return home feeling refreshed in both body and mind.

Ready to join us? Discover our upcoming Pilates retreats and wellness holidays today.

With so many Reformer Pilates studios popping up, finding the right one can feel a little overwhelming. To help, we've put together a quick guide to the questions you should ask when choosing a studio that fits your goals, schedule, and experience level.

(Although, of course, we're hoping you'll choose us!)

Find the Right Reformer Pilates Classes for You

Not all Pilates studios offer the same style of classes, so it's worth thinking about what you're looking for before you book.

Do you want a slower-paced class focused on mobility and flexibility? Are you looking for a challenging full-body workout? Or would you prefer a studio that offers a variety of Reformer Pilates class types so you can choose based on how you're feeling each day?

The best Pilates studio for you is one that offers classes aligned with your goals, whether that's building strength, improving posture, increasing mobility, or simply carving out time for yourself.

Choose a Studio with Class Times That Fit Your Life

One of the biggest factors in achieving results with Reformer Pilates is consistency.

It's much easier to build a regular Pilates routine when classes fit around your work, family, and social commitments. Look for a studio with a timetable that gives you plenty of options throughout the week.

At Core Connexion, we're open seven days a week with classes morning, noon, and night. With studios in Reading and Wokingham, you'll find more than 80 Reformer Pilates classes on the timetable every week.

Having classes available when you need them can make all the difference when it comes to staying consistent and reaching your goals.

Find Your Instructors

In the same way everyone has a different coffee order, we all connect with different instructors.

A great Pilates instructor can make a huge difference to your experience, helping you feel supported, challenged, motivated, and confident in your movement.

Our advice? Try a few different classes and experience a variety of teaching styles. Over time, you'll naturally discover the instructors whose energy, coaching style, and classes you enjoy most.

That connection can be incredibly powerful when it comes to motivation. If you know you love a particular instructor's class, you're far more likely to keep showing up week after week.

Look for a Studio That Feels Welcoming

The best Reformer Pilates studio isn't always the one with the fanciest equipment. It's the one where you feel comfortable, supported, and excited to come back.

Whether you're completely new to Pilates or have years of experience, look for a studio that makes you feel welcome from your very first class and supports you as you progress.

Ready to Give Reformer Pilates a Try?

Our Intro Offer of 3 classes for £55 gives you the perfect opportunity to experience our Reformer Pilates classes, meet our instructors, and see whether Core Connexion is the right fit for you.

Come and discover why so many people choose Core Connexion for Reformer Pilates. Find us in Reading and Wokingham.

There are so many different fitness retreats, wellness retreats, Pilates retreats and yoga retreats out there, so what makes a Core Connexion Pilates Retreat different?

We've designed our Pilates retreats around everything we love about a long weekend away: great movement, great company, beautiful surroundings, comfortable accommodation, and exceptional food.

Of course, Pilates is at the heart of every retreat. You'll enjoy a variety of classes, including Dynamic Pilates, Pilates for Strength and Pilates X Barre, giving you the opportunity to explore movement beyond the traditional mat Pilates experience.

But our retreats are about much more than exercise.

We believe a true wellness retreat should leave you feeling relaxed, restored and inspired – and it's hard to feel any of those things if you're not sleeping well or enjoying your meals! That's why we carefully choose luxurious accommodation and make delicious food a top priority.

What Can You Expect From a Pilates Retreat?

From the moment you arrive, everything is designed to help you switch off and settle in.

In your room, you'll find an exclusive welcome gift filled with Pilates essentials and a few little luxuries, along with a drink and snack to enjoy after your journey.

Later, you'll have the opportunity to join a gentle Mat Pilates class to shake off the day before sitting down to dinner with your fellow guests and hosts. It's the perfect chance to relax, connect and get to know the people you'll be sharing the experience with.

Over the following days, you'll enjoy a balance of movement, rest and exploration.

Expect at least two Pilates classes each day, although you're always encouraged to listen to your body and join as many or as few sessions as feel right for you.

Alongside Pilates, you'll have plenty of time to unwind and enjoy optional cultural experiences. Previous retreats have included countryside walks, exploring Moroccan souks and visiting ancient Portuguese towns.

On your final evening, after one last group Pilates class, your host will guide you through a reflection session, giving you time to pause, appreciate the experience and carry a little of that retreat feeling home with you.

Is a Pilates Retreat Right for Me?

If you're looking for a wellness break that combines movement, relaxation, connection and a little adventure, a Pilates retreat could be exactly what you're looking for.

You don't need to be an advanced Pilates practitioner to join us. Our retreats are designed to be welcoming, supportive and enjoyable for a range of experience levels.

Whether you're looking to deepen your Pilates practice, prioritise self-care, or simply enjoy a few days away from everyday life, there's a place for you.

Love what you're reading? Discover our upcoming Pilates retreats and wellness escapes today.