Pilates is more than just a fitness trend; it’s a holistic workout system that has been transforming bodies and lives for over a century. Rooted in the teachings of its creator, Joseph Pilates, this practice focuses on developing core strength, enhancing flexibility, improving balance, and fostering mind-body awareness.

The Purpose of Reformer Pilates

Core Strength

Pilates places a strong emphasis on building a stable and powerful core. Strengthening the muscles of the abdomen, lower back, and pelvis creates a solid foundation for all movements and helps maintain healthy posture.

Flexibility

The controlled and precise movements of Pilates exercises promote flexibility in both muscles and joints. This increased flexibility can alleviate stiffness and enhance your range of motion.

Balance

Pilates exercises are designed to improve balance and coordination. By focusing on controlled movements and breath, you’ll develop a better sense of body awareness and control.

Mind-Body

One of the unique aspects of Pilates is its emphasis on the mind-body connection. It encourages mindfulness and concentration, allowing you to be fully present in your movements and reduce the effects of stress on the body and mind.

Efficiency

In today’s fast-paced world, time is a valuable commodity. Pilates offers an efficient way to achieve optimal fitness and overall health. Our proprietary class structure ensures that each session is effective, targeting multiple muscle groups in just 50 minutes.

What Type of Pilates to Start With?

Our Level 1 classes provide an introduction to Pilates equipment, exercises and best practices. Our certified Pilates instructors will guide you at a beginner’s pace, ensuring a supportive and accessible learning experience. Every instructor at RTR has completed our proprietary RTR Pilates Academy training program, ensuring a consistent, high-quality approach to teaching.

What to Wear and Gear You Might Need

For Pilates attire, prioritize comfort and elasticity. Choose clothing that allows your body to move freely. While spandex is an option, joggers, shorts, short sleeves, long sleeves, and tanks all work well. Avoid overly baggy clothes to facilitate instructor form checks. Make sure to wear grip socks (they are required) to enhance stability.

Beginner Reformer Pilates Terminology

In the realm of Pilates, understanding key terminology is the gateway to mastering the art of movement and cultivating body awareness. Here are some fundamental Pilates terms that will guide you through your practice.

As you immerse yourself in Pilates, these terms and instructional phrases will become familiar guideposts on your journey. Embrace the language of Pilates, and over time, you’ll find a seamless connection between these cues and the fluidity of your movements, enhancing both your physical and mental well-being.

Definition: A precise, controlled movement where you gently draw your pelvis forward and down, lengthening your lower back and engaging your deep core. This action creates a neutral or posterior pelvic tilt, depending on the exercise.

Significance: Tucking your tailbone helps stabilize your spine, activate your core, and prevent low-back compensation during movement. It improves alignment, supports proper muscle engagement, and allows you to move with more control, strength, and intention on the reformer.

Definition: This term describes a deliberate and controlled movement where you articulate through each vertebra of your spine sequentially.

Significance: “Peeling through your spine” promotes spinal flexibility and encourages a smooth, controlled transition between movements. It enhances body awareness and alignment.

Instructional Phrase: This cue is used to engage the deep abdominal muscles and initiate movement from the core.

Significance: Tucking your chin toward your chest helps activate the abdominal muscles, fostering a connection to the powerhouse. This instruction assists in isolating the core and reducing tension in the neck and upper body.

Instructional Phrase: This cue is aimed at lengthening the back and opening up the shoulders.

Significance: By sliding your shoulder blades down, you create space in the upper body, promoting better posture and reducing tension in the neck and shoulders. It encourages a sense of elongation and alignment.

Get Your Reformer Pilates Journey Started With RTR Pilates

Ready to transform your fitness journey with Pilates? Take the first step towards a stronger, more balanced you! Join us at RTR Pilates and embark on the path to wellness. Whether you’re a seasoned exerciser or new to workouts, our expert instructors are here to guide you.

Don’t wait – start your Pilates journey today. Explore our 14-Day Intro class package and discover the transformative benefits of Pilates at RTR. Your stronger, more balanced self awaits!

Already tried our intro offer?

Your next step is to choose a membership! View our rates page here.

Get your first 14 days of classes for just $75 + Bring a Friend!

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14 Day Reformer Pilates Intro Package

Experience the power of Pilates classes for 14 Days for just $75 + Bring a Friend.

  • 1 class per day for 14 days
  • Option to choose any RTR Location
  • Experience different classes, instructors, and locations
  • + 1 Guest Pass to bring a friend
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* First class must be one of our Level 1 classes