Reformer Pilates at home

[sweetmelody]

Been wanting to try Reformer Pilates for a while but been hesitant as it’s expensive and pretty sure I’ll need 2-3 classes a week to see an improvement in hip and shoulder pain I’ve suffered for years.

Picked up a Lidl machine on a whim last week (missed out on an Aldi one) but, before I return it as an expensive mistake haha, has anyone successfully got into a routine at home? Could I do online classes or I should I do some in person first and might I successfully combine either with exercise at home?

You need to do classes. I'd have probably done myself damage if I had just hopped on a reformer. You learn so much from the teacher going through the routine plus they will correct your position if necessary. They are expensive but worth it.

Just do some normal pilates at home or some yoga. I don't get bringing machines into it at all other than it means people absolutely can't do it at home and must go to expensive classes. Classes are better for either, but at least if you don't have machines you can do it at home when you know what you are doing. For me, it just overcomplicates something straightforward and accessible.

I’ll be brutally honest - reformer pilates at home is an awful idea OP. The machine itself takes a lot of getting used to and you really need an instructor there to critique your technique, make any adjustments and guide you in a safe, effective manner. The reviews on those Lidl/Aldi at home reformer machines are awful for a reason, they’re simply not safe. Only the most seasoned pros should be practicing independently.

Agree with all of the above. I love reformer Pilates and attend advanced classes weekly. I wouldn’t consider buying a machine for home.

Aside from the good points already made - I would also add that you may well get bored/ stuck in a rut fairly quickly if you don’t have outside instruction to keep up momentum.

I thought about getting a machine a few years ago when I realised how much classes are costing me, but I know that the amount of variety and techniques I get from the instructors is something I could never replicate myself.

Also (personally) I need to be pushed to do a few more reps etc. whereas if I was at home I would just give up when it got hard.

If you’re struggling with the cost of RP classes, can you mix it up with other cheaper/ free excersise like running or cycling a few times a week.

Thanks everyone for your comments and suggestions.

I pay gym membership of £95 a month and do 4 Pilates classes a week, along with around 9 other classes a week and spa use. It is a bargain.

Where is this? I’m in!!

Not reformer though?

I do Pilates twice a week, my instructor has spent years training to get to her level. She has reformers which I haven't tried and there's no way I would do it without her supervision. You could end up injuring yourself.

are you doing mat Pilates? Plenty you can do especially if you get a ball and a ring.