Your first Reformer Pilates class: what to expect

Before you come

Create an account on the website and choose how you want to start. Most women begin with the Welcome Pack: three classes within a month, no subscription. Prices and packages has the other options.

Then book a class on the schedule. A regular Reformer Pilates class is the right one to start with, because your instructor adapts it to whoever is in the room, beginners included. Before your first booking, the app asks a few short health questions. Answer them honestly, so your instructor knows about anything to keep in mind, like a back problem, a pregnancy or a recent operation.

What to bring and wear

Grip socks are a must, for hygiene and so you don't slip on the Reformer. Bring a small towel too. Forgot them or don't have any yet? You can buy both at the studio.

Wear something fitted and comfortable that you can move in, like leggings and a close-fitting top. Loose tops ride up when you lie back or lift your legs. A bottle of water never hurts.

Getting here and arriving

The studio is in Plaza Central on Avenida Diputación in Calpe, on the first floor. Park in the garage underneath, where the first 60 minutes are free. Coming from further away? There are directions from Benissa and from Moraira.

Arrive about 10 minutes before class. That gives you time to put your things away, change in the changing cubicle and settle on your Reformer. Don't cut it fine: once class has started you can't join, so it stays safe and calm for everyone.

The 50 minutes

Before you start, your instructor helps you set up the Reformer and explains the basics: the springs, the footbar, the straps and how to get on and off safely. Then the class moves through a warm-up, the main work and a stretch at the end.

The groups are small, with six Reformers at most, so your instructor sees you and corrects you by name. Every exercise has an easier and a harder version. Take the easier one whenever you like. Most first-timers are surprised how hard gentle-looking movements can be.

After your first class

A little muscle soreness a day or two later is normal, especially in your core and legs. Drink water and keep moving. It passes quickly.

You'll probably walk out feeling taller and calmer. After three or four classes you start noticing your posture during the day. That's when it starts to click. To see where to go from here, read how often to do Reformer Pilates.

Common questions

Keep reading

• Reformer or mat Pilates: what's the difference?Same method, different tools. What changes on the machine and which one suits you.
• How often should you do Reformer Pilates?Once, twice or three times a week? What changes with each rhythm.
• Pilates through menopauseWhat changes in your body and what Reformer Pilates can do for you.