What to Expect from your First Reformer Pilates Class at Reform & Glow

If you’re thinking about trying Reformer Pilates for the first time, you might be feeling excited, curious or even a little nervous. That’s completely normal. At Reform & Glow, our boutique Reformer Pilates studio in Leicester, we welcome beginners every week, and most of our first-time clients walk out saying the same thing: “I wish I’d tried this sooner.”

This guide walks you through exactly what to expect in your very first Reformer Pilates class, so you can walk in feeling confident and ready to move.

A Warm Welcome & Introduction to the Rerformer

When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by your instructor, who will welcome you to the studio and introduce you to the reformer machine. Don’t worry, you don’t need to know anything before you walk in.

Your instructor will explain the springs, foot bar, straps and carriage so you are fully aware of what everything is. You’ll also have the chance to let us know about any injuries or concerns so we can adjust the class to suit your body.

A Slow & Calm Start

Your first few minutes on the reformer will feel gentle and mindful. You can expect to start by focusing on your breathing to really settle your mind into the class, followed by a warm up which includes slow movements designed to help you get used to the machine.

Your instructor will talk you through every movement, often using clear verbal instructions and helpful cues such as: “Think of lengthening the spine…” or “Press through your heels…”. You’re never left to guess what to do, and you’re always encouraged to move at your own pace.

Feeling Uncoordinated

One of the most common things beginners feel at first is a feeling uncoordinated, which is completely normal. Everyone does.

The reformer adds resistance, support and movement. Your brain is essentially learning something brand new. You might mix up left and right, move the carriage a bit too quickly, or wonder if you’re “doing it right.”

Trust us: that’s all part of the process. Your instructor is there to help, adjust, and remind you that Pilates is about progress, not perfection. Within a few classes, everything will start to click into place.

“Shaky” Muscles

Again something that is completely normal is the muscle shakes - little tremors that happen when your stabilising muscles wake up and start working.

This usually means:

• You’re engaging the right muscles

• You’re building strength

• Your body is working in a new (and effective) way

The shakes are normal, safe and often a sign you’re exactly where you should be. As we always say “Embrace the Shakes”!

Hands-On or Visual Adjustments (If You’re Comfortable)

Instructors may offer gentle hands-on guidance or visual demonstrations to help you find proper alignment. If at any point you prefer verbal cues only, you can simply let us know, your comfort is always the priority.

You can expect clear, encouraging feedback the whole way through. You’re not expected to get everything perfect, you’re just expected to show up and give it your best shot.

A Low Impact Workout

Reformer Pilates is kind to your joints, but don’t be fooled: it’s an incredibly effective workout.

In your first class, you may feel - deep core engagement, muscles you forgot existed, gentle stretching and spine mobility, and a feeling of lengthening and strengthening at the same time

Most beginners say they leave feeling taller, lighter, and surprisingly energised.

You’ll Leave Knowing You’ve Done Something Amazing for Your Body

After class, your instructor will check in with you, answer questions and offer tips for what to expect over the next day or two. Mild soreness is normal. Many first-timers book their next class before they’ve even left the studio.

Trying something new takes courage, and we’re here to make that first step as easy and enjoyable as possible. At Reform & Glow, you’re supported from the moment you walk in, and you’ll never be judged for being new.

Your first class isn’t about perfection. It’s about movement, connection and discovering what your body is capable of.

And who knows? Your first class might just be the beginning of your new favourite way to move!