Earlier this year, I attended my first Reformer Pilates class at MK Health Hub in Solihull. As someone who actively avoids stretching and hasn’t had much experience with Pilates, I wasn’t entirely sure what to expect.
Studio Overview
MK Health Hub is a studio based in Solihull, Birmingham, which now has three locations across the Midlands. These include a Reformer Pilates studio in Mere Green and a state-of-the-art studio and gym in Birmingham city centre.
Each studio is uniquely different but shares the same positive mission: to deliver amazing results in a supportive and fun environment.
Don’t miss the photo wall on your way into class; you might spot a celebrity or two. MK Health Hub offers 1-1 personal training, open gym sessions, Pilates, and much more.
You can check out their website here.
What is Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates is a low-impact, full-body workout that combines traditional Pilates movements with a focus on resistance, strength training, and breathing exercises. This style of workout is perfect for everyone, from complete beginners to Pilates regulars.
The main difference between traditional Pilates and Reformer Pilates is the equipment used. Reformer Pilates is performed on a specialised carriage called the Reformer, which you can lay or stand on.
Although the Reformer carriage may seem intimidating at first, the added challenge of springs and pulleys to create resistance can enhance the mind-body connection and help work your joints and muscles through their full range of motion more effectively.
The Workout
Upon arrival at the studio, I was warmly greeted by the instructor, Sally, who helped me find a Reformer to use for the class. The studio was beautiful and full of light, with mirrors on every wall allowing you to see exactly what you were doing.
Sally showed me how to use the Reformer and explained the purpose of the different springs. She offered modifications throughout the class to suit all abilities and demonstrated each movement. The class was busy, but Sally took the time to work with each member to ensure they were getting the most out of every exercise. The flow was faster than I had expected but still focused on the quality of the movement.
Throughout the class, Sally added a variety of equipment, including hand weights and springs to increase resistance, and boxes to help deepen stretches and engage our core more. I enjoyed adding weights to the workout as it challenged me to target specific muscles.
Round Up
The class was hard, and I definitely did what felt like the longest and hardest 30-second plank of my life, but the mix of footwork, upper body, and ab exercises kept the class fun and engaging.
I would recommend the class to anyone. The burn was real, and although I left feeling refreshed and energised, I could definitely feel it the next day! It tested not only my strength but also my balance and coordination.
Verdict
Overall, I loved my first experience of Reformer Pilates. Thanks to the wonderful team at MK Health Hub, I’ve even started attending a regular Reformer Pilates class closer to home.
To see more about them, check out their Instagram or head over to their website to join!
Remember that individual experiences may vary, and the review is based on my personal encounter at MK Health Hub. It’s advisable to visit, enquire, and experience the studio firsthand to make the best choice for your fitness level.
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