06/01/2026
So, I decided to hop on the trendy train and gave Reformer Pilates a whirl a couple of times recently.
If you haven’t been living under a rock, you’ve probably noticed it’s all the rage right now. There are studios dedicated solely to these reformer classes - they’ve practically taken over gym schedules and are booked solid.
What a short and sweet ride it was! 🤣🤣🤣
During my first session, I thought I was having a blast. You’re perched on this contraption that slides back and forth like a kid’s ride without the motion sickness. (It also reminded me of the doctor's office when they told us to put our feet in the straps. 😂 )It was all fresh and exciting. Lots of core work and a sprinkle of leg work…shockingly, I wasn’t sore the next day, which was either a miracle or a letdown?
Now, the second class…GOODNESS GRACIOUS. At one point, I lost sight of the instructor, and there I was, kneeling on the machine, one hand stuck in the torture strap while the other was free. I turned to see her, forgetting that the machine is, you know, a MOVING target and my free arm plummeted into the abyss below! 🫢😳 Talk about a major facepalm moment. I let out a “SH*T!” that echoed through the studio, and had a sore, red arm. A definite low point in my life.🤣
I soldiered on (though I was mentally protesting every single second). No cues for breathing? So, I spent most of the class holding my breath like I was about to dive into a deep pool. 🫢
I found out that Joseph Pilates designed these machines for WW1 soldiers stuck in bed for ages, because, clearly, nothing says “fun” like a bed-ridden workout. I totally get why people go gaga for it, especially those recovering from injuries or aiming to improve their core. However, I’d happily dive into mat Pilates again and send the machines back in time to 1920.
So if you’re brave enough to try it, just be VERY careful and remember…It MOVES.
(Or, y’know, stick with good ol’ Mat Pilates.)
GIVE ME YOGA ANY DAY. Breathing, movement, stillness, and a mat that doesn’t go for a joyride. Praise be. Long live Yoga.
🙏💕
Deb
(Please note: this is a satirical opinion piece and not meant to offend my Pilates loving friends. )
