Beginner’s Guide to Starting Reformer Pilates in Bristol

If you’ve been thinking about trying Reformer Pilates in Bristol, you’re not alone. Reformer classes are becoming one of the most popular ways to build strength, improve posture, and increase flexibility - all while keeping workouts fun and low-impact. Whether you’re brand new to Pilates or just curious about the Reformer machine, this guide will help you take the first confident step into your first class.

What Is Reformer?
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Reformer Pilates uses a specialised piece of equipment called a Reformer, which features a moving carriage, springs, and straps to create resistance. Unlike traditional Mat Pilates, Reformer workouts add more variety, support, and challenge - helping you target muscles more effectively and improve overall body alignment.

At our Soul Studios in Bishopston and Paintworks, we use Reformers from Balanced Body. Our founder, Nic Lenny, has been using them at home and in her studios for over a decade so she knows they are built to last and their springs allow for the subtlety that Pilates is all about.

What to Expect in Your First Reformer Class

It’s normal to feel a bit nervous before your first class, but don’t worry, everyone starts somewhere. Whether you join one of our Reformer classes on Gloucester Road or Brislington, here’s what you can expect:

• Supportive atmosphere: We have classes dedicated to beginners where you’ll be surrounded by others who are new and learning too.
• Friendly guidance: our expert teachers will walk you through how to use the Reformer safely and you can ask any questions you might have.
• Small class sizes: We keep class numbers low so your instructor can give you personal attention.

​What Class Level to start with

Our Beginners Classes (Level 0-1) are the perfect place to start as they are designed to welcome people who haven’t done reformer before, walking you through the different parts of the Reformer machine and helping you build confidence in the fundamental moves.
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But if the timing of the Beginner Classes doesn’t suit you, feel free to join any of our Align Classes (Level 1). Simply arrive 5–10 minutes early to let your teacher know it’s your first class. They’ll explain how the Reformer works and have a quick chat about any specific needs you may have, so they can offer extra guidance and support during your sessions.

To see when our different classes run, you can visit our Timetable and simply filter by studio to find the ones closest to you between our 2 Reformer Studios in BS4 and BS7.

see timetable ​→

Tips for Beginners​

• We recommend wearing comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely, along with grippy socks for stability. If you don’t have a pair with you, don’t worry, we have plenty to choose from and buy in our studios.
• Don’t worry about getting everything perfect. Simply focus on learning each movements and don’t hesitate to ask questions to your teacher.
• Consistency is key and by attending 1 to 2 classes every week you will achieve the best results and can soon progress to one of our Evolve Classes (Level 2).

With patience and practice, you'll quickly start to feel stronger, more flexible, and more in tune with your body.

​Ready to start? Book a drop-in class or try our Intro Offer of 3 Reformer Classes for £52.

drop-in class ​→

intro offers ​→