Discover Reformer Pilates

A fitness class room with participants doing Pilates exercises on specialized equipment, with mirrors, windows, and plants inside the room.

A deeper, more intelligent way to move and strengthen your body

The Pilates Reformer is one of the original pieces of equipment created by Joseph Pilates, designed to support the body in moving with strength, control and precision.

Unlike many modern exercise methods that focus on effort and intensity, the reformer invites a more intelligent approach. It encourages you to slow down, pay attention and retrain the way your body moves.

A room with wooden tables and chairs, some of which are connected to medical devices and monitoring equipment. The room has large windows letting in natural light, and some plants on the window sills. The ceiling has multiple small recessed lights and a smoke detector. The overall setup suggests a rehabilitation or therapy center.

Where It All Began

Joseph Pilates originally developed the reformer as part of his wider movement method, Contrology. His aim was to help the body move efficiently, with balance, alignment and control.

Using a system of springs, pulleys and a moving carriage, the reformer was designed to both support and challenge the body at the same time.

This combination allows you to:

  • Build strength without unnecessary strain

  • Improve alignment and posture

  • Develop mobility alongside stability

  • Move with greater awareness and precision

It’s this unique blend of support and resistance that makes the reformer so effective.

A woman assisting a man with physical therapy exercises on a specialized adjustable therapy bed in a room with wooden floors and beige walls.

Why the Reformer Feels So Different

The reformer works with your body, rather than against it.

The spring resistance adapts to you, offering support where you need it and challenge where you’re ready for it. The moving carriage introduces an element of instability, helping your body learn to stabilise and respond in a more natural, functional way.

Over time, this can lead to:

  • Improved core strength and coordination

  • Better posture and alignment

  • Increased flexibility and ease of movement

  • A feeling of length, space and lightness in the body

Many people notice they not only feel stronger, but also move more comfortably in everyday life.

What are the benefits of reformer Pilates?

Questions you might have about our Reformer Pilates classes.

  • Not in the traditional sense. Reformer Pilates is designed for conditioning, rehabilitation and developing deeper stability. While you may feel your body and muscles working in a new way, the focus is on controlled movement, body awareness and building strength safely, rather than high-intensity exercise.

  • Yes. Louisa has spent more than a decade working with clients who are injured, helping them to move more efficiently and out of pain. The reformer springs offer guided resistance that can be adapted to your needs, helping you move safely while still building strength and confidence. Class sizes are kept small, so you will get plenty of attention and support. Each session is an individual experience based on what your body needs that day. Modifications and adaptations will always be given when needed.

  • You’ll be supported and guided throughout. Reformer Pilates helps you understand what’s happening in your body so you can move with clarity and confidence. You’ll be guided through each exercise with a focus on safe alignment and ease of movement. You’ll be encouraged to go at your own pace, and assisted if an exercise needs to be modified.

  • No. Everything you need is provided in the studio. Just wear comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely and perhaps bring a water bottle.

  • Absolutely. The goal is to give you the tools to understand your body, make better choices in movement and feel confident long after you’ve left class. Many people find improvements in posture, mobility and everyday comfort.

  • Absolutely not. The Reformer can be adjusted to meet you exactly where you are. You can work gently or with more resistance, depending on your body’s needs. It’s a supportive way to build strength without strain, and all bodies are welcome.

A row of reformer Pilates machines with black cushioned surfaces in a bright fitness studio with large windows and indoor plants at move well studio wetherby

Pricing & Packages

Whether you prefer the flexibility of dropping in when it suits you or want to save by buying a bundle, you can choose the option that works best for you. Classes are £21 for a single session,
£114 for a block of six, or
£177 for a block of ten.

A woman lying on her back on a Pilates reformer machine, holding resistance straps overhead, wearing black leggings, a black sweatshirt, and gray socks, in a fitness studio. Reformer Pilates at move well studio wetherby

Book a Reformer Pilates Class

“I really enjoying Louisa’s reformer classes and find it a perfect combination of satisfying stretches with a bit of burn. She guides the class so clearly with an emphasis on being slow and considered to really get the movement right. I would highly recommend!.” Lucy

Louisa, founder at Move Well Studio smiles during a pilates class in Wetherby