When many people think of Pilates equipment, the Reformer is the first thing that comes to mind. It's the one that looks the most striking on social media — long, sleek, with a sliding carriage and springs that create those signature lengthening movements. But the Reformer is more than just a pretty piece of equipment. It's one of the most supportive tools for building strength, improving alignment, and advancing your practice — no matter where you're starting from.
If you've been searching for reformer Pilates in Brooklyn, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Is Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates is a full-body workout performed on a specialized apparatus called the Pilates Reformer. The machine uses a system of springs, straps, and a sliding carriage to create resistance. Unlike mat Pilates, where you rely entirely on body weight, the Reformer adds variable tension that supports your joints while challenging your muscles through a full range of motion.
The design allows you to work multiple muscle groups at once — mimicking the way your body moves in everyday life. It's low-impact, high-reward, and suitable for everyone from complete beginners to professional athletes.
The History of the Pilates Reformer
The Reformer has roots dating back to the early 1900s. Joseph Pilates originally created the apparatus to help rehabilitate injured soldiers after World War I. He took hospital beds and added springs and weights he could find lying around, building resistance-based exercises that promoted strength and recovery.
Before World War II, Joseph left Germany for the United States, where he continued refining his designs. He added leather straps and a mobile carriage inspired by rowing, a popular sport at the time. The Pilates Reformers we see today — including the ones at The Fit In — are remarkably close to the final design Joseph landed on all those years ago.
Why the Reformer Is Perfect for Beginners
It's a common misconception that the Reformer is only for advanced practitioners. In reality, it's one of the best pieces of apparatus for Pilates reformer beginners.
Mat Pilates requires a significant amount of core and glute strength right out of the gate. That can be discouraging if you're just starting out. The Reformer, on the other hand, offers support. The springs take some of the load off, allowing you to build strength progressively. The foot bar and straps create a closed kinetic chain, meaning your limbs aren't floating in space — there's more stability and control.
At The Fit In, our Pilates Reformed: Fundamentals classes are specifically designed for newcomers and those recovering from injury. We move at a slower pace, introduce the equipment carefully, and build confidence before advancing.
The Benefits of Reformer Pilates
Whether you're looking for Pilates reformer classes or just curious about what the hype is about, here's what the practice can do for you:
- Full-body conditioning: The Reformer challenges your arms, legs, core, and back simultaneously — building balanced strength with every session.
- Improved posture and alignment: The guided resistance helps you find proper form, which carries over into everyday movement.
- Low-impact, high-results: Gentle on the joints but demanding on the muscles — ideal for anyone with past injuries or joint concerns.
- Scalable intensity: Springs can be adjusted to increase or decrease resistance, so every class meets you where you are.
- Better mind-body connection: The focused, controlled movements on the Reformer build awareness of how your body moves and feels.
Reformer Pilates Classes at The Fit In in Bed-Stuy
At The Fit In, we offer a range of Pilates reformer classes designed to meet you where you are:
- Pilates Reformed: Fundamentals — Perfect for beginners or anyone returning from injury. Slower pace, focused instruction, and plenty of time to get comfortable on the equipment.
- Pilates Reformed: Jump — An advanced class incorporating the Jumpboard, a modification designed by Romana Kryzanowska (one of Joseph Pilates' protégés). It's said the Jumpboard was originally created for NASA astronauts, but it became especially popular for dancers looking to strengthen their jumps with less impact on the knees, feet, and ankles. It's also a great way to get some cardio into your Pilates routine.
- Private Sessions & Duets — For those who want personalized attention and a program tailored specifically to their goals.
All classes are kept intentionally small — just 4 slots per session — so you get the attention and guidance you deserve.
Why Brooklyn Loves Reformer Pilates
Prior to The Fit In: Pilates Reformed opening, finding accessible reformer Pilates in Brooklyn was challenging. Reformer classes were typically priced at $35 or more per session and concentrated in wealthier neighborhoods. Mat Pilates was more accessible at big-box gyms, but it requires a level of core strength that can be tough for beginners.
We opened our doors in Bed-Stuy to change that. We believe Pilates reformer classes should be accessible, welcoming, and effective — no matter your background or experience level. Our studio is rooted in this community, and we take pride in offering a space where everyone feels at home.
Ready to Try Reformer Pilates?
Whether you're a complete beginner or looking to deepen your practice, the Reformer is one of the most rewarding pieces of equipment you'll ever use. It builds strength, improves mobility, and challenges your body in ways that keep you coming back for more.
Book a Class — Choose from Fundamentals, Jump, or private sessions at our Bed-Stuy studio.
Already love the mat? Check out our guide to mat Pilates in Brooklyn and see how the Reformer can take your practice to the next level.
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