Reformer Pilates Class Types | Find the Right Pilates Class at Core Connexion

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.

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.

Reformer Pilates is everywhere right now – but what is it, who's it for, and what can it do for you?

Obviously, we love Reformer Pilates, so we're slightly biased. But we genuinely think there are plenty of reasons to give it a chance beyond just the latest fitness trend...

So, What Is Reformer Pilates?

Reformer Pilates uses a specially designed Reformer machine to provide both resistance and support, helping you build strength, improve mobility, increase flexibility, and move more efficiently.

The resistance comes from springs, which work differently to traditional weights. As the springs stretch, they become heavier, meaning you need to control the movement throughout the entire exercise. There's no relying on momentum or taking a quick break halfway through – your muscles stay engaged for longer, helping you get more from every movement.

One of the reasons Reformer Pilates has become so popular is because it's a true full-body workout. Not only does it strengthen the larger muscle groups, but it also targets the smaller stabilising muscles that support your joints, improve balance, and enhance everyday movement.

It's also why so many people tell us they've noticed improvements in their posture, flexibility, core strength, and overall mobility. Many clients even find that regular Pilates helps them better manage back pain and everyday aches and pains.

P.S. Don't be fooled by the lighter springs – they're not always the easiest option! Don't worry though, your instructor will always guide you on which springs are right for you.

Who Is Reformer Pilates For?

The short answer? Everyone.

The slightly longer answer...

Reformer Pilates is one of the most versatile forms of exercise available, making it suitable for a huge range of people, fitness levels, and goals.

Private Pilates Sessions

In a private Reformer Pilates session, it's just you and your expert instructor. Every exercise, spring setting, and progression can be tailored specifically to your body and your goals.

If you're returning to exercise after surgery, recovering from an injury, or looking for a safe and supportive way to rebuild strength and mobility, private sessions offer the perfect environment to do so.

Equally, if you've been practising Pilates for years, private sessions give you dedicated time to deepen your understanding of movement, refine your technique, and master exercises you may not encounter in a group class.

Group Reformer Pilates Classes

Our group Reformer Pilates classes at Core Connexion are capped at just 10 people, allowing our instructors to provide plenty of individual attention.

That means we can help fine-tune your technique, get to know your goals, and ensure you feel supported throughout your Pilates journey.

With a variety of class types available, you can choose a class that suits your experience level, fitness goals, energy levels, and how your body feels on the day.

Whether you're looking for a gentle mobility-focused class, a challenging strength workout, or something in between, there's a Reformer Pilates class for you.

Check out our Class Types post for a more in-depth look at each class option.

Is Reformer Pilates Right for Me?

We'd always say yes – but don't just take our word for it.

Whether you're completely new to Pilates or looking for a fresh challenge, there's no better way to find out than by experiencing it for yourself.

Book a single class, take advantage of our Intro Offer (3 classes for £55), or start with our Focus Starter Pack (1 private session and 2 group classes) to discover the benefits of Reformer Pilates firsthand.

Join us at Core Connexion and see why so many people from Wokingham, Reading and across Berkshire are choosing Reformer Pilates to build strength, improve mobility, and feel better in their bodies.