A year ago, I attended a free Pilates at the park event, which became my first reformer Pilates class with Club Pilates. Around that time, I was feeling sluggish and not up for going to the gym. My boyfriend had no clue what pilates was when I asked if he’d want to join me, but he said sure, I’ll go to the park with you. Boy, was he surprised when we pulled up. He offered to try it out but asked if he could hold onto the keys in case it was not his thing, and I assured him I was more nervous than he was when I saw how many people were there.
But the rest is history. Those in attendance, both beginners and regulars and the staff alike were all the friendliest bunch. I’m not sure about my boyfriend, but this community was what I was looking for. We both still do pilates regularly and are still experiencing new moves, toys, and faces.
Thinking about trying Reformer Pilates but feeling a bit nervous? Don’t worry! Pilates is for everybody, and everybody starts somewhere. Here are ten easy-to-understand tips to help you feel confident and prepared for your first class:
1. Get to Know the Basics
Reformer Pilates is all about control, concentration, and breathing. Keep these in mind to get the most out of your workout. Whether starting pilates as a high-level athlete looking for a stretch above yoga or just looking to see what the hype is about, your core will be challenged. When it is, remember to breathe, concentrate, and control the movement; don’t just count a half-assed set.
2. Start Slow
If you’re new, begin with a beginner-level class. It’s the perfect way to learn without feeling overwhelmed. Instructors start where you did, so they know you might not understand every cue or every move. They also want to make sure you’re not hurting yourself, so don’t be afraid to ask for help.
3. Find Your Form
Pay attention to how your body aligns during exercises. This helps prevent injuries and makes your movements more effective. Instructors will offer to adjust you and your machine to ensure your workout is hitting the right spots for any body type or any modification (injury, height, etc).
4. Adjust for You
The reformer machine has springs that control resistance. Adjust them to match your strengths and abilities. Instructors will offer suggestions on spring levels for different exercises throughout each session to ensure you are staying energized and making it easy.
5. Engage Your Core
Your core muscles are super important. Keep them tight during exercises for better balance and control. If you don’t know how to engage the different areas you’re targeting, you’ll feel these different zones working and learn how to control them after a few sessions. Some classes make your muscles sore, in a good way.
6. Breathe Right
Inhale and exhale at the correct times during movements. It helps your muscles work better and keeps you relaxed. Instructors will emphasize this and initially sound silly, but they mean it. Don’t hold your breath; let it come naturally, take a breather if needed, and listen to the cues to know when to inhale or exhale for the best set or stretch.
7. Feel the Burn
Expect to feel your muscles working hard, especially in your core, butt, and thighs. Whether you’re trying a flow or cardio class, pilates all starts with your core and helps you maintain a full-body workout. If you don’t feel any burn, try a different type of class or a different instructor.
8. Keep Coming Back
Consistency is key. The more you practice, the stronger and more flexible you’ll become. When you workout to build muscle, you learn quickly that if you don’t use it, you lose it. Pilates isn’t meant for building muscle, but you will notice a huge difference when you aren’t being consistent.
9. Listen to Your Body
If something doesn’t feel right, don’t push through it. Let your instructor know and make adjustments as needed. From reformer straps feeling uneven to your hip grinding, take everything seriously. Your instructor will tell you what areas you should feel during a new move or when utilizing a new tool, but if you aren’t sure about the exercise, feel free to ask. Modifications can be made for almost anything.
10. Stay Hydrated
Drink water before, during, and after class. And remember to stretch afterward to help your muscles recover. Please note not to eat within two hours before any intense classes, and do not drink coffee within an hour before class – you will not feel well and may even risk severe cramps if you’re not adequately hydrated.
With these tips, you can confidently jump into your first Reformer Pilates class. No matter what studio you’re joining or if you’re indulging at home, enjoy the workout and the excellent benefits it brings!
Featured image via bruce mars on Unsplash
I’m done
I am very pleased