Why Come to Reformer Pilates for Beginners?
If you’re new to Ten or to Pilates, or haven’t exercised for a while, this is the class for you. While it’s still a workout, we’ll also be focusing on getting you familiar with the Pilates Reformer and on practising the techniques you’ll need to isolate muscle groups and activate them correctly.
If it’s your first class, you should make sure you arrive at least 10 minutes early. This is to allow you enough time to complete our registration form and meet the Trainer. Please be aware that if you have not done this before the class starts, you may not be able to train.
Is Beginners Reformer Pilates right for me?
A basic level of fitness is helpful, but not essential. Beginners classes are open to everyone and they’re the perfect introduction to our Dynamic Pilates programme.
New to Ten? Our intro offer gives you your first 3 Classes for just £57.
What will Beginners Pilates be like?
You’ll be introduced to the equipment, techniques and some of the basic Pilates moves that underpin the Ten programme. The focus is on understanding how the core muscles work, learning to activate them correctly, and beginning to improve your general strength, flexibility and posture.
Whilst these are introductory classes, and less intense than some of our other classes, we’ll still make sure you challenge your muscles and get those all-important endorphins flowing.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR FOR BEGINNERS PILATES?
You will get hot, so wear clothes that allow you to move easily and stay cool. You won’t need shoes – you but you will need to wear Pilates socks (if you don’t have any, don’t worry – they’re available to buy at Reception). We provide water and towels are available for hire for a £2 fee and complimentary for members.
Benefits of a Beginners Reformer Pilates Class
You’ll find out what makes Ten’s Dynamic Pilates so addictive and effective, and how to use the Reformer equipment. The faster you become confident with the equipment and techniques, the sooner you’ll start seeing the benefits of your training.
You’ll also start building up your core strength, flexibility, and muscular endurance, so that when you move up to the intermediate and advanced levels, you’ll find the experience easier and more enjoyable, and the workout more effective.
Available as 45 and 55 minute classes.
Benefits of Pilates
Pilates is one of the best all-round forms of exercise available. There are too many advantages to list them all but here are 10 key benefits:
- It’s a great, highly effective and time-efficient full body workout.
- It strengthens the core – the muscles that support the hips, spine and neck – really important for anyone who spends hours a day at a desk, or hunched over a laptop or a screen because it improves spinal alignment and reduces the risk of posture-related pain or injury.
- It improves muscle strength, endurance and tone – particularly around the abdominals, lower back, hips and glutes.
- It improves posture, flexibility and balance – essential for our physical wellbeing, but too often lost thanks to today’s sedentary lifestyles.
- It’s prehabilitative – meaning that it doesn’t just make you stronger and fitter, it also helps prevent injury.
- It’s mindful and immersive – a valuable time-out from the pressures of work and day-to-day life. Promoting focus, presence and concentration, it’s a great way to reduce anxiety and stress.
- It’s low impact, and suitable for people of all ages and abilities.
- It’s great for improving strength and control of your Pelvic Floor – one of the most important, but most overlooked and under-trained muscle groups in the body.
- By improving your posture, strengthening, toning and lengthening your muscles, you’ll stand taller and look leaner.
- You feel and see the benefits fast. As Joseph Pilates said “In 10 sessions, you’ll feel better, in 20 sessions you’ll look better, and in 30 sessions you’ll have a completely new body.”
BOOKING YOUR FIRST CLASS
-
1 START WITH BEGINNERS
If you’re new to Reformer Pilates or Ten, we recommend starting with a Beginners Class. It’s not a reflection of your strength or fitness, but advised to help you get comfortable with the Pilates Reformer, understand the terminology we use and learn the techniques involved.
-
2 BOOK WITH OUR INTRO OFFER
Our Reformer Pilates introductory offer gives you your first 3 Classes for just £57. Not only is it the best value per session you’ll find, but it’s also perfectly packaged to help you experience more of our trainers and start making progress towards your goals.
-
3 BRING YOUR GRIP SOCKS
Grip Socks provide the necessary stability you’ll need during your workout, and are compulsory for all Reformer-based classes. Don’t worry if you don’t have any; they are available for purchase from the studio reception.
FAQ
About Beginners Reformer Pilates in London
Still have questions? Read our full FAQs or contact our team, and we'll be happy to assist
-
Can beginners do Reformer Pilates?
Yes, reformer Pilates is suitable for beginners. Our beginners classes are designed for people with no previous Pilates experience. Your instructor will explain how the reformer works, talk you through the exercises and help you feel comfortable using the equipment. The reformer can be adjusted to suit different fitness levels, so you don’t need to be strong, fit or flexible before you start.
-
Which class should I book for my first Reformer Pilates session?
If you’re new to Ten, book a Beginners Reformer Pilates class.
Even if you’ve done Reformer Pilates elsewhere, our beginner classes are the best place to start. You’ll learn the terminology we use in our studios, get familiar with our teaching style and build confidence in the equipment. -
What's the difference between Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates?
Mat Pilates is performed on a mat using your bodyweight for resistance. Reformer Pilates uses a specialist machine with springs, straps and a moving carriage. The resistance can be adjusted to suit your ability, making exercises easier or more challenging as needed.
Many beginners find the reformer easier to learn because it provides support and guides movement.
-
Is Reformer Pilates easy to learn?
Yes, most people pick up the basics of Reformer Pilates quickly under proper guidance from our instructors. The machine is designed to support your movement, and your instructor will explain how to use it safely throughout the class.
The main focus is learning good technique, control and alignment. With regular practice, you’ll build confidence and get more from each session.
-
What happens in a Beginners Reformer Pilates class?
In a Beginner’s Reformer Pilates class, your instructor will introduce the foundations of Pilates and show you how the Reformer works. You’ll be guided through controlled exercises at a steady pace, with a focus on technique, posture, alignment and movement quality. You’ll also start learning the key Pilates principles that will support you as you progress into future classes.
-
How long is a Beginners Reformer Pilates class?
Most Reformer Pilates classes at Ten last around 50 minutes. Sessions include a warm-up, a structured workout and a cool-down. The pace is steady and controlled. There is plenty of time to learn the exercises and make adjustments when needed.
-
Do I need to be fit or flexible before starting Reformer Pilates?
No, you do not need to be fit or flexible before starting reformer pilates. Many people start Reformer Pilates to improve their strength, mobility and flexibility. Exercises can be modified to suit different abilities. Your instructor can also provide easier or more challenging options when required.
-
What if I can't keep up during class?
You do not need to worry about keeping up with everyone else. In a Beginners Reformer Pilates class, you can work at a pace that feels right for you, with your instructor there to guide and support you throughout.
Pilates is about control, technique and good movement rather than speed. If something feels too challenging, your instructor can adjust the exercise or resistance level so you can build strength and confidence safely.
-
Will I be sore after my first Reformer Pilates class?
You might feel some mild muscle soreness after your first class, especially if your body is getting used to new movements. This is completely normal and usually settles as you build strength and confidence.
Beginners often feel it most in the core, glutes, legs, or back, as Reformer Pilates can work muscles you may not use in the same way day-to-day. Any soreness should feel like normal post-exercise muscle ache, not sharp pain. If you are unsure, your instructor can advise you before or after class.
-
What should I wear for Reformer Pilates?
You should wear comfortable clothing to Reformer pilates that allows you to move freely. Leggings, shorts, t-shirts and fitted workout tops are all suitable. Avoid clothing that is overly loose or restrictive. Comfort and freedom of movement are the priority. Grip socks are required for all Reformer Pilates classes at Ten.
-
Do I need grip socks for Reformer Pilates?
Yes, grip socks are required for all Reformer Pilates classes at Ten. They improve stability on the equipment. They also help maintain hygiene standards within the studio. Grip socks are available to purchase at reception if required.
-
What should I bring and how early should I arrive?
Bring a water bottle, a towel and arrive around 10 minutes before your first class so your instructor can show you how the reformer works and help you get set up.
Arriving early also gives you time to settle in and ask any questions before the session begins.
-
How many people are in a Reformer Pilates class?
Classes at Ten are intentionally kept small, with most studios having between 8 and 11 reformers. That means your instructor has more time to help with your technique, offer hands-on adjustments where appropriate, and give you individual feedback throughout the class.
Having a smaller group makes a real difference. You’ll receive more support as you learn new exercises, build confidence on the reformer, or adapt movements to suit your own fitness level and experience. Instead of trying to keep up in a busy class, you’ll have the space and guidance to progress at a pace that feels right for you.
-
Can I do Reformer Pilates with an injury?
Often, you can do reformer pilates with an injury, yes. Many Pilates exercises can be adapted for previous injuries. However, every injury is different. Speak to a Ten trainer or Physio before booking if you have a current or significant past injury; we can help determine the safest way to get started.
-
Is Reformer Pilates suitable if I’m pregnant or post-natal?
Pilates can be very beneficial during pregnancy and after childbirth, but specialist classes are recommended. If you are pregnant, we advise booking our prenatal Pilates assessment and classes, which are specifically designed to support your body safely during pregnancy.
-
Should I tell my instructor about medical conditions?
Yes, please tell your instructor about any medical condition, injury or treatment that may affect exercise. This helps us adapt exercises where needed and make sure the class is safe and appropriate for you.
If there is anything you are unsure about, or you feel you may need more specific support, our physio team can also review your needs and advise on the best approach before you start.
-
How often should beginners do Reformer Pilates?
Consistency is more important than intensity. Many beginners start with one class per week and still feel the benefits, especially as they build confidence and learn the foundations.
If your goal is to progress more quickly, two to three classes per week can help improve strength, posture, mobility and body awareness more consistently. The most important thing is finding a routine that feels manageable and sustainable for you.
-
When should I move from Beginners to Intermediate?
There is no fixed number of classes, progress depends on your experience, confidence and technique. Some people move up after a few sessions. Others prefer to spend longer in Beginners classes. Your instructor can advise when you’re ready for the next level.
-
Which Ten studios offer Beginners Reformer classes?
Beginners Reformer Pilates classes are available across all Ten Health & Fitness studios in London excluding Little Venice.
You can check the timetable for your nearest studio when booking online to see available beginner sessions.
Chiswick
City
Fitzrovia
Hatton Garden
King’s Cross
Nine Elms
Notting Hill Gate
St James’s -
Can I attend classes at different Ten studios?
Yes. Many clients attend classes at different Ten studios depending on their schedule, for example near work during the week and closer to home at weekends.
Chiswick
City
Fitzrovia
Hatton Garden
King’s Cross
Nine Elms
Notting Hill Gate
St James’s -
How do I book a beginners class?
You can book a Beginners Reformer Pilates class through the Ten online timetable or via the app. Simply choose your preferred studio, select a Beginners class and reserve your place.
-
What happens if a class is fully booked?
If a class is full, you can join the waitlist. If a space becomes available you will automatically be notified and added to the class.
-
Ten Pilates Reformer tips for beginners
- Go to classes or 1-1 sessions with a qualified instructor rather than trying to teach yourself.
- When doing a standing or kneeling exercise, step onto the standing platform first, not the carriage.
- Pilates is all about technique – if an exercise feels very easy, you may be doing it incorrectly.
- Even if you’re very fit, you may struggle at first as you’ll be using muscles you haven’t used before.
- Slower is better. Moving slowly improves technique and effectiveness while reducing injury risk.
- Your instructor may adjust your posture by hand to help improve your form.
- Consistency is key – training around three times per week can accelerate progress.
- Stop when your technique starts to fail rather than pushing to complete exhaustion.
- Shaking during holds is normal and means your muscles are working.
- Focus on your own progress rather than comparing yourself with others in the class.
-
Further Reading
Our blog has all the advice you could want. From essential equipment, to health benefits. From sports specific advice to tips to maximise your workout our blog should be your first port of call for all things reformer pilates.