What Is Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates is a form of Pilates performed on a specialized piece of equipment called the Reformer. While it may look complex (and maybe even intimidating) at first, the Reformer is actually designed to make Pilates accessible and effective for everyone by offering support, challenge, and the ability to refine your movement.
Like all Pilates, the Reformer method emphasizes controlled movement, alignment, breath, and strength with the goal of moving intentionally and with precision so the body feels more supported.
What Is the Pilates Reformer?
The Pilates Reformer is an exercise machine created by Joseph Pilates to assist and challenge the body through spring-based resistance.
Balanced Body Allegro® 2 Reformer
The Reformer is made up of a moving carriage, springs that provide adjustable resistance, straps and pulleys that guide movement, as well as a footbar, headrest, and shoulder blocks. Each of these components work together to support alignment, build strength, and encourage controlled, efficient movement.
Unlike Mat Pilates, the Reformer is elevated off the floor, making it a more accessible option for many people. For older adults, those returning to exercise, or anyone who has difficulty getting down to and up from the floor, the height of the Reformer and the support of the springs can make movement feel more comfortable and approachable.
If you're curious what it looks like in action, check out the Instagram video where I break down my favorite Pilates Reformer and show how I use it with clients.
Why Was the Reformer Created?
Pilates was originally practiced only on the mat, but not everybody had the ability to perform Mat Pilates movements right away so the Reformer was created as a stepping stone to mat movements.
The Reformer:
Helps people access the movements more safely
Provides feedback and assistance to the body
Increases strength, control, and precision
Prepares the body for the demands of performing exercises on the mat
The Reformer meets the body where it is and helps guide it toward more efficient movement patterns.
What Makes Reformer Pilates Different?
Reformer Pilates is different from other methods of movement because of how adaptable it is. The springs can be adjusted to offer more or less resistance, making exercises extra supportive or more challenging depending on each person’s goal.
Reformer Pilates really emphasizes full-body strength and integration, core support and postural awareness, controlled, intentional movement, balanced muscle engagement, and smooth, thoughtful transitions.
Because the carriage moves, the body must continuously stabilize itself, which helps build deep strength, coordination, and awareness without the impact of lifting heavy weights.
Reformer Pilates and Pilates-Inspired Machines
As Pilates has become more widely practiced, other machines have emerged that are inspired by the original Reformer. You may see classes offered on equipment like the Megaformer, which shares some visual similarities to a Pilates Reformer but is designed with a different intention.
A traditional Pilates Reformer supports controlled, intentional movement with an emphasis on alignment, breath, and efficiency. Exercises are often slower and more deliberate, allowing time to organize the body and move with precision.
Pilates-inspired machines, such as the Megaformer, tend to offer a more continuous, higher-intensity experience. The focus is often on endurance, sustained muscular engagement, and strength under fatigue.
Lagree Megaformer
Both styles of movement can be valuable—it simply depends on what your body needs and what you're looking for in a practice. Understanding the difference helps you choose classes that align with your goals, whether that's improving movement quality, building foundational strength, or enjoying a more athletic workout.
Benefits of Reformer Pilates
As a low-impact and highly adaptable method of exercise, Reformer Pilates offers many benefits that support both everyday movement and long-term physical health. Here are just a handful of benefits Reformer Pilates offers:
Builds full-body strength: Spring resistance challenges muscles through a full range of motion, helping build strength evenly and efficiently.
Supports posture and alignment: The structure of the Reformer provides feedback, helping you organize your body more clearly and move with better awareness.
Improves mobility and flexibility: Many exercises combine strength with length, supporting joint mobility and ease of movement.
Low-impact and joint-friendly: The carriage supports the body, reducing unnecessary stress on the joints while still offering meaningful challenge.
Highly adaptable: Reformer Pilates can be modified for beginners, advanced practitioners, and those managing injuries or special conditions. Plus, its elevated design makes it a more accessible option for many people.
What Does a Private Reformer Pilates Session Look Like?
Private Reformer Pilates sessions are tailored to your body, needs, and goals. While no two sessions are exactly alike, most include:
A warm-up focused on breath and alignment
Footwork to connect the legs and core
Strength and mobility work for the arms, legs, hips, and back
Intentional sequencing and transitions
A cool-down or stretch
Reformer Pilates can be taught in both private and small group settings. Although the teaching approach may differ, the goal remains the same: helping people move with greater strength, control, and awareness. As a Pilates educator, I teach instructors how to effectively lead both formats while staying true to the Pilates method. At wel•lam, I primarily work with Reformer Pilates clients through private sessions, allowing me to customize their session to their exact needs every time.
Is Reformer Pilates Right for You?
Reformer Pilates may be a good fit for you if you:
Want to build strength without high impact exercises
Are looking for more movement support than Mat Pilates provides
Prefer guided, structured movement
Are returning to exercise after time away
Want to deepen your Pilates practice
The Reformer meets people exactly where they are, regardless of your movement experience and injuries or conditions.
The Bottom Line
Reformer Pilates is more than a workout—it’s a thoughtful movement practice that supports strength, alignment, and efficiency in how you move.
Whether you’re new to Pilates or continuing your practice, the Reformer offers a powerful way to build strength, improve awareness, and feel more connected to your body.
Try Reformer Pilates with me!
Whether you’ve never done Pilates before, are looking for a way to challenge yourself, or think you’d benefit from the support of the Reformer, get started with Reformer Pilates at wel•lam! My Reformer Pilates sessions are always private or semi-private, so you’ll get focused care and instructions specific to your unique needs and goals. Book your Intro to Private Movement session here!
With love,
Lia