Total Posts: 11
16.6 Months Ago

1. How much different will the workout results be with a reformer vs. mat? When I took the reformer classes, I really enjoyed them but didn't find them very challenging, actually easier than mat. I push myself a lot on the mat, and I found the pace in Reformer class so slow that I didn't feel much challenge--not the pace of the moves themselves, but the time in between each move setting up equipment, repositioning, listening to the instructor, etc. Is this just me and a bad class or is this normal?

2. I've heard a million times that cheap reformers for home use are not worth the effort, but I cannot in any way afford multiple hundreds of dollars/month at a gym for reformer use, nor can I even remotely consider being able to afford a "good" reformer. So, does anyone have experience with both Studio Reformers and any of the more-affordable ones? I'd like one with a removable box or collapsing legs or something so that I can slide it under my bed when not in use. The main price points seem to be the super cheap $200 ones. I assume those are awful. But what about like $500-600 ones, like the Stamina ones. There's also a Balanced Body on for $1200. Just curious what the differences are at those price points. I'd be comfortable shelling out up to $500-600 if they are much better than the really cheap ones. I'd be hard pressed to justify $1200 or more unless the difference was truly worth it.

Thanks!

Total Posts: 1
15.6 Months Ago

I am certainly not a Pilates expert, but I have been doing the Pilates Reformer classes with an instructor for about 10 months now, once a week and have just started twice a week. Prior to that, I was doing a mat class as well. I can only speak for my class but I am sweating from start to finish. During the 1st 8 week session I did, the pace was much slower while we learned the different moves and positions, but now there is barely any rest time in between. I also would recommend trying the Reformer in a personal training style session. That way, the instructor is able to set up multiple machines and you are able to move from one machine to the next with no stopping. I have done this a few times with 4 machines and it has kicked my butt!

I dont have any info about the home machines. I would love one as well, but I think I would miss being pushed by an instructor!

Good Luck!

Total Posts: 28
6.8 Months Ago