What to Expect at Your First Reformer Pilates Class
Here’s exactly what to expect when you book your first Reformer class with us at Core Chicago.
Walking into your first Reformer Pilates is scary. We’ve all been there. The equipment looks complicated, everyone else seems to know what they're doing, and you're not even sure where to stand, let alone what to do with all the springs and straps.
But the good news is, every single person in that room was a beginner once. We've designed our process specifically to make your first class as smooth and welcoming as possible.
Before Your First Class: We'll Reach Out
After you book your first class, you'll receive an email from us asking about any injuries, concerns, or anything you'd like your instructor to know before class.
Please actually tell us. We're not just asking to check a box. We genuinely want to know if you have a stiff knee, tight shoulders, lower back pain, or if you're recovering from surgery or an injury. This information helps your instructor prepare modifications for you before you even walk in the door.
Common things to mention:
Any injuries (past or current)
Chronic pain or areas that bother you regularly
Recent surgeries or physical therapy
If you're pregnant
If you're nervous or have questions
The more we know, the better we can support you. There's no such thing as too much information here, and it’s all confidential.
When You Arrive: 5-10 Minutes Early
Plan to arrive 5-10 minutes before your class starts. Both our Lincoln Park and Lakeview studios have street parking.
When you walk in:
Check in at the front
Let the Instructor know it's your first time (if they don’t already ask)
Store your belongings by the coat/shoe racks
Fill up your water if needed
Your instructor will greet you and show you to your Reformer. They’ll point out the things you need to know before getting started.
What to wear:
Comfortable workout clothes that allow you to move freely. You don’t need to have tight clothing. Grip socks are not required – if you like them, you can wear them. But barefoot is just fine!
What to bring:
Just a water bottle and yourself.
Before Class Starts: Your Instructor Will Check In
Your instructor will introduce themselves and ask if you have any questions or concerns. This is your chance to mention anything you didn't include in the email, or just to let them know how you’re feeling (it’s totally normal to say nervous, excited, sore, etc).
They'll give you a quick overview of the Reformer: What the carriage is, how the springs work, and where to position yourself. Don't worry if it feels like a lot of information at once. You'll learn by doing, and get ongoing instruction.
During Class: We'll Guide You Through Everything
Class structure:
Gentle warm-up to get you familiar with the equipment
A series of exercises targeting your full body
Cool-down and stretches
What makes Open Level Reformer beginner-friendly:
The pace is slower with clear, step-by-step instruction
Your instructor will demonstrate movements or talk you through exactly what you should be feeling, and where
Modifications are offered throughout class. You're never expected to do something that doesn't feel right for your body, or that’s outside your current range of motion
With only 5 people max in class, your instructor will give you individual attention and corrections
You will not:
Be expected to already know what you're doing
Need to know your springs or machine settings
Be left behind or confused. If you don't understand something, ask
Be judged for being a beginner. Everyone is focused on their own workout!
You might:
Feel a little lost at first
Use muscles you didn't know existed
Be surprised at how challenging it is (in a good way)
Leave feeling accomplished!
What the Reformer Actually Does
The Reformer looks intimidating, but it's actually one of the most beginner-friendly pieces of Pilates equipment. Here's what it is:
A sliding carriage that moves back and forth on a frame
Springs that provide adjustable resistance
Straps for your hands or feet
A footbar to push or pull against
The springs are what make the Reformer so effective for beginners. They can assist you (making exercises easier) or resist you (making exercises harder), depending on the exercise. This means movements are more accessible than trying to do everything with just your body weight.
The feedback from the springs also helps you understand what muscles you should be using. You'll actually feel when you're doing something right. And if you don’t, your instructor is there to help.
After Class: How You'll Feel
Immediately after
You'll probably feel worked but not dripping in sweat and exhausted. Pilates is challenging, but it's not the kind of workout that leaves you unable to walk the next day (usually).
The next day or two
You may be sore in places you didn't know you had muscles. Your core, your glutes, the backs of your arms. This should dissipate after 48 hours or so.
By your third or fourth class
The movements will start to feel more familiar. You'll know where to position yourself on the Reformer, and you'll start to understand what your instructor means when they cue certain muscles.
Common First-Timer Questions
"What if I can't do something?" Then you don't do it, or your instructor gives you a modification. There's no pressure to do anything that doesn't feel right for your body.
"What if I'm the only beginner in class?" Open Level Reformer classes are designed for all levels, which means there are always people at different stages. Your instructor will give you the modifications you need.
"What if I don't know what the instructor is talking about?" Ask!! There's no such thing as a dumb question, and your instructor would rather you ask than struggle in silence. You can also look around the class and get visual cues from your neighbors.
"I'm not flexible/strong/coordinated. Will I be able to do this?" Yes. Pilates builds all of those things. You don't need them to start.
After Your First Class: What's Next?
Most people leave their first class thinking one of two things:
"That was harder than I expected, but I want to come back."
"I have no idea what just happened, but I feel good."
We recommend:
Taking 2-3 classes per week for the first few weeks to build familiarity
Sticking with Open Level Reformer until the movements feel comfortable, if you want a group class
Trying a few privates to build confidence and familiarity
Being patient with yourself! Pilates has a learning curve, and that's okay
After a few weeks of consistent classes, you'll start to notice real changes: better posture, more core strength, improved flexibility, and movements that felt impossible in your first class suddenly clicking into place.
Ready to Book Your First Class?
Remember:
We'll email you before class to ask about injuries or questions
Arrive 5-10 minutes early
Wear comfortable clothes and bring a water bottle
Let your instructor know it's your first time if they don’t bring it up right away
Ask questions if you're confused
Be patient with yourself
The hardest part is showing up. After that, we'll take care of you.
New to Core? Check out our Intro Packages designed specifically for first-timers.
Questions? Email: info@corechicagopilates.com Call or text: 773-296-9660
Core Chicago Pilates Locations: Lincoln Park: 2549 N Racine Ave, Chicago, IL 60614 Lakeview: 3000 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657