Don’t Skip the Basics: How Reformer I Prepares You for Advanced Pilates

Hey everyone!

We often hear the question, "Why is Reformer I mandatory before moving on to advanced classes?" The answer is simple and multifaceted: Pilates on a reformer can be tricky (and dangerous!) if you don't have the right foundation.

Why Reformer I is Essential Before Advanced Classes

Reformer I isn't a punishment—it's a gift to yourself and your fellow students. You'll build:

- Proper technique

- Core engagement

- Mind-body connection

- Confidence

The Importance of a Strong Foundation

Jumping straight into advanced classes might feel tempting, especially if you come from a strength training background. However, without the basics, you might not be getting the most out of your practice—and you could be putting yourself at risk for injury.

The Ripple Effect of Skipping Fundamentals

Let's have an honest conversation: When you enter an intermediate or advanced class without proper preparation, you're not just compromising your own experience—you're impacting the entire class dynamic. Advanced students have invested in a challenging workout, and instructors have meticulously planned class progressions. By entering without foundational skills, you:

- Require more individual instructor attention

- Slow down the class's overall momentum

- Potentially create frustration for other participants

- Risk your own safety and learning potential

Think of it like the "wax on, wax off" lesson from Karate Kid! 🥋 Mastering the fundamentals in Reformer I will set you up for success.

“I don’t feel anything, that was easy!” — Engaging is Key.

Pilates is designed to be low-impact, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. If your experienced instructor is feeling challenged during a specialized class, it’s a clear sign that proper engagement—especially through breathing—is essential. As a beginner, you may not be feeling the workout as intensely because you might not be focused on:

a) your breathing;

b) engaging your core;

c) using muscle instead of momentum; or

d) relying on your limbs rather than your core. Starting with Reformer I will help you master these techniques, setting a solid foundation for your Pilates journey and ensuring you can fully engage in advanced classes!

Embracing the Pilates Mindset: Beyond Sweat and Intensity

Starting Pilates means shifting away from a "HIIT" or commercial gym mindset, where sweat is often equated with a good workout. In Pilates, you may find that sweating is minimal, especially in a non-heated studio, but it's essential to understand that sweat does not equal effectiveness. The focus is on controlled movements, precise alignment, and mindful breathing, which promote strength, flexibility, and body awareness rather than sheer intensity. By embracing this new mindset, you open yourself to the incredible physical and mental benefits of Pilates, discovering that true progress comes from mastering the fundamentals rather than how much you sweat.