Reformer Pilates Studio – 1:1 and Small Group Sessions
I look forward to welcoming you to my bespoke Garden Pilates Reformer Studio.
I offer Private small group reformer classes of up to 4 people and 1:1 sessions.
Exercising on the Reformer adds a new level of intensity to mat work exercises that will help lengthen, define and reshape your muscles, you can expect to see improvements in body shape, tone and strength.
What is a Pilates Reformer?
The Pilates reformer, which visually looks like an old-fashioned bed frame, was originally called the Universal Reformer because of its wider application to exercise.
It was created in the 1920s by Joseph Pilates (1880-1967), for the purpose of rehabilitation. Some of the first people treated by Pilates were soldiers returning from war and dancers such as Martha Graham and George Balanchine (to strengthen their bodies and heal their aches and pains).
The carriage of the reformer is loaded by a number of springs that attach to the carriage to the frame – when the carriage slides, horizontal resistance is created. A number of ropes and pulleys are also attached to the carriage and frame and can be used to create additional resistance or alleviate it, as required by the exercise participant.
The level of resistance level is normally adjusted by the number of springs attached – one spring would provide the least resistance whereas five springs would normally represent the maximum resistance available on a standard reformer.
When a celebrity says they do Pilates you can bet it’s on a Reform.
Reformer Pilates promotes core strength, alignment, flexibility and total body muscle strength.
More experienced participants may progress to standing work or even cardiovascular training using the tramp or springboard as part of an athletic conditioning programme.
Reformer Pilates is great for rehab purposes too as it allows you to exercise in a horizontal plane of motion and not be vertically loaded and weight bearing through their legs.
For example if someone has had knee surgery or a knee injury, this horizontal plane enables you to strengthen the muscles of the leg through a larger range of motion using a lighter resistance than their body weight, speeding up their recovery through controlled movement.
The Reformer can look a little scary at first! You will start with a Beginner Reformer session, no matter your fitness level, and you’ll realise that it is the most versatile and effective piece of exercise equipment ever made, plus it’s great fun!
Your initial session will be an introduction to Reformer
All clients will be required to complete an introductory session to explain the safe use of equipment, basic exercise principles and practise introductory exercises.
Beginners Reformer
Suitable for all levels of fitness, the pace is slow and focuses on establishing correct technique, safe use of the equipment, setting of the springs and pulleys and developing a repertoire of basic exercises.
Intermediate Reformer
To participate at Intermediate level you will need to have completed a number of beginners sessions and be able to use the Reformer safely and with confidence. The pace is quicker and will include more complex exercises demanding balance, co- ordination and strength.
As a 62 year old MS sufferer I have benefited enormously from the exercises and stretches afforded by the reformer table. Sally has skilfully modified programmes to ensure they suit my needs. What’s more in the last 9 months my golf handicap has dropped by 2 shots!