Why Taking Time for Yourself Isn’t Selfish: The Benefits of a Wellness Retreat

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.

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.

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.