Reformer Training for Beginners: 7 Tips for Your First Class

1. Everyone starts somewhere. Really.

You don't need any previous experience. If you've done strength training, dance or other sports before, some movements might come easier — but that's no reason to put off your first class if you haven't. You wouldn't expect to play the piano perfectly after your first lesson either. Give yourself time to learn, ask questions and get comfortable. You're here to train, not to prove that you already know how.

2. Get to know your reformer.

The reformer might look a little complicated at first — moving carriage, springs, straps. Don't worry, you'll get the hang of it. At ARI, we use it for strength training, mobility and high-intensity workouts. This is not traditional Reformer Pilates. This is ARI. You don't need to know which spring to use or where to put your feet before you arrive. That's what we're here for.

Our coaches will always tell you which spring you need to use for which exercise, how you need to stand, and how you need to move.

3. Move slowly. Especially on and off the reformer.

If there's one thing to remember, it's this one. The reformer has a moving carriage — and if you're not paying attention, it can move when you don't expect it to. A few ground rules:

• When you step onto the reformer, step onto the platform or extender first, and then onto the carriage.
• Take your time getting on and off — know where your hands and feet go.
• Keep the carriage under control. No rushing between positions.
• Don't change springs or settings unless your coach has shown you how.

4. Listen to your coach. There's a reason behind every cue.

When your coach tells you to slow down or adjust your position, it's not because we enjoy giving instructions. Okay, maybe a little. But a small change in position can completely change how an exercise feels — and which muscles are working. Plus, our instructions are also there for safety. And if something doesn't make sense? Ask. We'd much rather explain twice than have you wonder through an entire exercise.

5. Don't worry about the person next to you.

The reformer is incredibly adaptable. We can change the resistance, adjust your range of motion or give you a different variation depending on your level. Many exercises are also low-impact — no jumping, no hard landings. So if the person next to you is doing something slightly different: focus on your own movement and choose the variation that works for you. Your workout doesn't need to look like anyone else's to be a good workout.

6. Start with a Beginners Class.

Our Beginners Classes introduce you to the reformer step by step — the basics, the movements, and a coach right there to guide you and correct your technique. For your first visit:

• Wear comfortable workout clothes.
• Bring water.
• Arrive 10–12 minutes early, so you don't have to rush.

7. And most importantly: enjoy it.

Your first class might feel a little unfamiliar. You might need an exercise explained twice, or discover that a movement that looks ridiculously simple is actually pretty challenging. That's all part of learning something new. Come with an open mind, ask questions and give yourself permission to be a beginner. We're looking forward to having you in class.

Ready to give it a try?

Whether you're completely new to training or simply new to the reformer — our Beginners Classes are a great place to start. Find us at ARI in the heart of Vienna's 8th district.