Springs, straps, a sliding carriage... the first sight of a reformer can be a little intimidating. With the right preparation, though, your first reformer pilates class is an enjoyable and eye-opening experience. In this article we walk you through what to wear, what to eat and what to bring before class, what to expect during it and what you might feel in your body afterwards. Our goal is for you to feel ready the moment you walk through the studio door.

What is a reformer? Get to know its parts

The reformer is the best-known apparatus of the method developed by Joseph Pilates. The basic idea is to use resistance from springs to both challenge and support your body. Knowing the parts in advance makes it easier to follow your instructor's cues.

Carriage: the surface you lie on, which slides back and forth on rails.
Springs: under the carriage, they provide different resistance levels by colour or number. More springs doesn't always mean harder; in some exercises they provide support.
Footbar: the adjustable bar where you place your feet or hands.
Straps and handles: used for arm and leg work.
Shoulder rests and headrest: keep the body stable when you work lying on your back.

What should you wear?

In a reformer class, your clothing has one job: not restricting movement and letting your instructor see your alignment. Function matters, not fashion.

Fitted, stretchy leggings or shorts: loose trouser legs can catch on springs or rails.
A close-fitting top: a T-shirt or tank that won't slide up when you're inverted or have your legs in the air.
Grip socks: many studios ask for non-slip socks for hygiene and safety. Check the studio's policy in advance.
Avoid zips, metal buckles and chunky jewellery: they can damage the upholstery and are uncomfortable when you're lying on your back.
Tie your hair in a low ponytail or plait rather than a bun; a high bun is uncomfortable on the headrest.

What should you eat and drink before class?

Because pilates focuses so much on the abdominal area, going into class with a full stomach can be uncomfortable. Finish a heavy meal at least two or three hours beforehand. If you get hungry closer to class, a light option such as a banana, a handful of nuts or a small yogurt is enough. Drink water throughout the day, but don't down a large amount just before class.

What to do before your first reformer pilates class

Book ahead: reformer classes have limited places and can fill quickly.
Arrive 10 minutes early: it leaves time to meet the instructor and get familiar with the machine.
Share your health history: always tell your instructor about back, neck, knee or shoulder problems, recent surgery or pregnancy. Check with your doctor beforehand if needed.
Silence your phone: an hour of focus is one of the most valuable parts of the class.

What happens during the class?

The flow of a first class varies by studio but usually follows a similar path. The instructor first shows you how to set up the machine: footbar height, headrest and springs. The class then starts with breathwork. Pilates typically uses a breath taken in through the nose and out through the mouth that expands the ribs sideways.

After the warm-up, the class usually moves on to footwork: pressing the footbar away with your feet while lying on your back. This section warms the legs and helps you get used to the carriage moving. Then come core, glute, back and arm exercises. The class closes with stretches.

Slow movements, real results

On the reformer, control matters more than speed. Slowing the carriage's return, managing the movement rather than letting the spring pull you back, works the muscles deeply. Shaking legs or burning abs in your first class are perfectly normal. If an exercise feels too hard, your instructor will help by changing the springs or showing you an easier version.

After class: what will you feel?

Many people feel both energised and a little tired after their first class. A day or two later, you'll probably have delayed-onset muscle soreness, especially in the abs, inner thighs and glutes. It's a normal response to an unfamiliar stimulus and usually fades within a few days. A gentle walk, a warm shower and a good night's sleep help recovery. Sharp joint pain, however, is not normal; if that happens, speak to your instructor and, if needed, your doctor.

Group class or private session?

Small group classes offer a social, motivating setting, and with few people the instructor can give everyone enough attention. Private sessions are built entirely around you and are ideal for nailing technique quickly, focusing on a specific goal or progressing carefully after an injury. Many people choose to take one or two private sessions first and then join a group.

Explore our reformer pilates classes

Studio etiquette

Arrive on time; coming in late means missing the warm-up and interrupting the group's flow.
Wipe down the machine after class and return the springs to the starting setting your instructor shows you.
Don't get on or off the machine while the carriage is moving; always follow the safe method your instructor describes.
Don't hesitate to ask questions; for a good instructor, hearing what you feel is the most valuable thing.
Keep coming after your first classes; two classes a week is a good rhythm for learning the movements.

Remember, nobody expects you to get everything perfect in your first class. Exercise names, spring settings and the breathing rhythm become second nature within a few classes. What matters is staying curious, listening to your body and not comparing yourself with others.

Take your first class at O'Wellness Yalıkavak

At O'Wellness Yalıkavak, reformer pilates group classes have a maximum of six people, so our instructor can follow your every movement closely in your first class. If you prefer, you can start with private sessions and then move to a group. Our sea-view studio at Xuma Beach is open during the May–October season, 08:00–19:00 on weekdays and 10:00–19:00 at weekends. To book your first class or ask about daily, weekly and seasonal membership options, contact us by phone or WhatsApp on +90 539 675 74 74.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be flexible to start reformer pilates?

No. Flexibility is a result of pilates, not a prerequisite. Your instructor will adapt the exercises to your current range of motion.

How long is a first reformer pilates class?

Classes usually last 45–60 minutes. A few minutes may be spent getting to know the machine in your first class, so arriving early helps.

Can I start on the reformer without doing mat pilates first?

Yes. The reformer's springs can support many exercises and make them easier to learn. Mat pilates makes a great complement later on.

Preparing for your first reformer pilates class: what to wear and what to expect