Preparing for Your First Reformer Class: What to Wear and Expect

Preparing for your first reformer class can feel a bit daunting: the apparatus looks complicated and the springs and straps are confusing. But the first class is designed precisely to remove this uncertainty. Here is what people often wonder about.

What to wear

A fitted, elastic legging and top; very loose clothes can catch in the springs. Non-slip grip socks are essential; you can get them from our studio. Remove jewellery and watches and tie back long hair.

How early to arrive

For the first class arrive 15 minutes early. The instructor will have a short introduction with you, help you fill in the health form and adjust the apparatus to your height.

The structure of the class

Warm-up (5–8 min): Breath and spine movements.
Foot and leg series (10 min): Pushing and pulling the carriage works the legs and glutes.
Core series (10–12 min): Movements that strengthen the centre.
Arms and back (10 min): Arm, shoulder and back work with straps.
Stretch and closing (5 min): Cool-down and breath.

What will you feel in the first class?

Most people feel mild muscle fatigue in the core, glutes and inner thighs the next day; this is normal. If the springs feel heavy, the spring level can be lowered. If you are not sure you are doing a movement correctly, raise your hand and the instructor will correct you.

Common beginner mistakes

Holding the breath: every movement has a breath.
Pulling the shoulders to the ears: keep the neck long.
Moving quickly: on the reformer control matters more than speed.
Comparing yourself with others: everyone's body and level is different.

After how many classes will I see a difference?

If you attend 2–3 classes a week regularly you will notice a difference in posture and core strength within 4–6 weeks and a change in muscle tone within 8–12 weeks. Results vary from person to person.

If you are pregnant, have had recent surgery or have a chronic condition, consult your doctor before coming to class and inform the instructor. You can use our booking page for your trial class.

Next step

After the first class you can work out with the instructor the class type and weekly frequency that suit you. Most students start with two classes a week and add a mat or yoga class a few weeks later. You can compare pack and membership costs with our calculator.