Pilates Reformer Sessions: For Prevention, Recovery, and Longevity
Pilates is for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a challenging, full-body workout, a safe and supportive way to recover from injury, or a method for osteoporosis prevention and management, Pilates on the reformer is one of the most effective and versatile forms of movement you can do.
My approach focuses on alignment, control, and total-body strength, enabling you to prevent or eliminate pain, improve balance, strengthen your bones, and move with confidence at any age. As a STOTT certified instructor, I have training in anatomy, injuries, and special populations.
Private, duet, and packaged sessions are available for men and women of all fitness levels. They are offered at various locations throughout Manhattan to make working out as convenient as possible.
Cancellations made within 24 hours of a scheduled appointment time are subject to the full price.
Pilates Sessions and Packages
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is a Pilates Reformer?
The reformer is specialized exercise equipment with a sliding carriage, weighted springs, and straps. There are several attachments to the reformer like the jump-board which allows for cardiovascular exercise, the box for elevated work, and the platform extender that supports standing exercises that require balance and strength. These are just to name a few.
2. Do I need prior experience to use the Pilates Reformer?
No. I offer a 3 class package of private sessions at a discounted rate for beginners. This allows me to show you the reformer and how it works, explain the basic principals of Pilates, check your postural and alignment and then introduce you to the exercises.
3. What should I wear to a Pilates reformer class?
Comfortable, fitted clothing that allow for freedom of movement. Many of my male clients wear fitted shorts with a baggier short over them. Non-slip socks are also recommended for safety and hygiene.
4. How is Pilates on the reformer different from Pilates on a mat?
The exercises are similar. When on the mat, body weight or props are used for resistance. One the reformer, the resistance is from the springs that vary in weight.
5. What are the benefits of Pilates on the Reformer?
Improvement in strength, flexibility, balance, posture, alignment ,and often pain. You may not be able to squat standing, but lying down at a lower spring tension, it becomes more attainable. As your strength improves, the tension increases until you eventually are able to squat standing.
6. How often should I take a reformer class?
For optimal results, 2 times a week. I do have clients that only come once a week though and they have seen huge improvements in their body and movements.
7. How long is a reformer class?
55 minutes.
8. Is it safe to use the reformer if I am pregnant?
Yes, if your instructor has training in pregnancy. I have training is pregnancy, injuries and other special populations.
9. What is the difference between classical and contemporary Pilates?
Both contemporary and classical Pilates originated from the original Pilates technique pioneered by Joseph H. Pilates. He recognized six movement-based principles that formed the framework. Classical Pilates follows similar principals to this method with variability between certification programs and instructors. STOTT is considered contemporary Pilates which incorporates modern principles of exercise science and rehabilitation into their techniques. The exercises are similar between classical and contemporary, but if you notice differences from one instructor to the next, this may be why.
10. How do I know if the studio or instructor that I am using is a good fit for me?
In my personal journey following an injury, I always looked for instructor certifications on studio websites. When working with an instructor, they should cue you on the breath for every movement. Breathing is a core principle of Pilates. There should also never be pain in an exercise. Modifications are available for every exercise and should be applied as needed. If you are taking a class with more than five people in it, your instructor won't be able to monitor and adjust you as you might need. I would avoid these studios if you are new to Pilates. Most studios offer new clients discounted packages for privates. Take advantage of this and always start with a private before a class when you are new. Learning the basic principles is key!