Day 43 ! Reformer Pilates (Beginner)

One of the questions that I'm asked most when I'm explaining the blog is whether I think I'll be able to find 80 different classes to do over the 80 days. And I think it’ll be close - we’re just over halfway now, there’s probably another 25 unique classes left on the HitList (assuming I can find somewhere that holds a drop-in class for these) and there are always a few new Fitivities I find or hear of from some Instructors, other class students or friends. If I can find places that have an animal flow class (where you mimic an animal basically, I think) or an aqua-biking centre (spinning in a mini pool), I’ll look forward to posting about those. In the meantime, British Military Fitness, Trampolining, a few dance classes at the infamous Pineapple Dance Studios, Barrecore, gymnastics at Crossfit, Aerial Hoop are all still to come!

Now, 38 days ago (38! Geez...) was Day 5 Reformer Pilates and I did post that I would test whether all reformer pilates classes are same same but different or just same same (and eventually boring). As I was getting distracted with all the different classes around London, someone reminded me of this and actually wanted a follow-up (gasp!) so, even thought it’s not a different class, I did follow up and to try and keep it vaguely a bit different, I tried a Beginner Reformer Pilates class this time and hauled regular reformer pilates-er friend Miss A to join. 

In actuality, the only real difference was that Instructor Jess ran through the reformer machine at the beginning of the class and explained the various parts. After the quick intro, the class started and the exercises were very similar to those performed on Day 5. The rubber hoop was used to stretch (holding one leg upwards whilst the other pushed against the foot bar to slide up and down the machine) and to tone (held between thighs as legs pulsed in and out to squeeze the ring). Hand weights were used during standing exercises to tone arms and core as one foot would rest on the moving platform and push backwards into a lunge, while the other foot stayed on the floor for stability. The rest of the toning exercises involved using the moving platform, alternating pushing legs and performing various crunch-esque moves. One of the good things I find with reformer pilates is that, because of the hoops, springs, slidey platforms, you are unlikely to get bored in a class. It wasn't a thrill-a-minute high energy class but at the very least, I definitely wasn't bored.

I did find that I found the transitions a little faster than the previous class – perhaps this was more down to my familiarity with the reformer machine this time around rather than the class itself. Instructor Jess was very professional and explained the moves while showing them but the instruction style was quite matter-of-fact – there was very little engaging with the class itself, very few individual corrections (unless this happened to be a class of perfect beginners!) and the class lacked a certain atmosphere. Miss A, who has tried a few different reformer pilates instructors around London did mention that most of the instructors she has had are usually very vocal, energetic and engaged. So, whilst there wasn’t a post-class high in this case, the class itself was nonetheless still a reasonable toning session. 

The Need To Know:

- Where: Bootcamp Pilates Fulham (a few studios around London).

- Nearest Station: Parsons Green (5mins)

- When: Classes on most days throughout the week, reformer pilates-dedicated studios.

- How Much: Intro offer £12 for 2 off-peak classes or £18(off)/£25(peak) per class or multi-class packages.

  

The Want to Know:

- Who’s it For: Those who are a fan of toning, lengthening and generally more low intensity classes. It’s not a cardio blast.

- Sweat Scale: 6/10. More than the “non-beginners” class on Day 5!

- Strength / Cardio / Flexi / Tone: More flexi and tone and some strength.

- Complexity: 6/10 Once you’re used to the machine, it’s kinda straightforward. Be mindful of long hair and moving parts.

- Fun Factor: 6/10.

- Changing Facilites: A shower, a toilet – just the one studio so enough.

- Teacher Inspiration: 6/10.

The Stats:

- Total Time: 53mins

- Calories Burnt: 131

- Average Heart Rate: 94bpm

- Max Heart Rate: 127bpm

Myself, Instructor Jess and Miss A