What Is Reformer Pilates?
A Modern Approach at FR!DAY Pilates in Tucson
Published: 4 November 2025 | Tucson, Arizona
Author: Giorgia Menetre, Certified Pilates Instructor at FR!DAY Pilates | Editor: Kelly Hart, Marketing Professional at Digital Strat House
So you’re curious about Reformer Pilates… maybe you’re a seasoned pro on the machine and want to dig into the details, or maybe you’re looking to get into Reformer Pilates but want to understand a bit more about what it actually is beyond what you’ve seen on Instagram! We’ve put together a fun and informative guide answering some of the most asked questions about Reformer Pilates so you can feel fully in the know.
Okay, let’s start with the basics. What exactly is Reformer Pilates? Reformer Pilates is a dynamic, resistance-based workout designed to increase strength, mobility, and control in a low-impact way while helping movers connect more deeply to their bodies through breath and concentration. It’s strength training with a sprinkle of mindfulness and a dash of grace.
Why is it becoming so popular in your city? As a low-impact form of exercise that prioritizes strength and control, many people are turning to Pilates as a way to build functional strength, support longevity through full-body workouts, connect to their mind and body through breathwork and awareness, improve posture and mobility, and get involved in an inclusive, community-based space. It’s fitness that feels good, not punishment for your body.
What do people typically come to us, FR!DAY PILATES, for? While some are coming to FR!DAY to fall back in love with movement, others come to connect with their community, rehabilitate from injury, train for specific hobbies or events, or build strength for their professional careers. We’ve seen everything from massage therapists working on arm endurance to new moms building stamina for long hours of playtime, and everything in between.
How does our studio approach this method differently and more modernly? While we maintain the foundations of Pilates in every class, FR!DAY takes a fresh, playful approach to Reformer Pilates with fun playlists, strength-focused movements, and a community vibe that feels inclusive and motivating rather than intimidating.
What Is Reformer Pilates and How the Reformer Works at FR!DAY
Now let’s get down to the fun part: the machine itself! You might be asking, “What is a reformer machine? Is it a torture device or does this thing actually help me exercise?” Spoiler: it’s the latter.
The reformer machine is a sliding carriage controlled by adjustable springs, allowing you to modify resistance for either control or power. There are straps, a footbar, and fun add-ons like the jumpboard or box for endless exercise variations. At our Tucson studio, we use the reformer in a fitness-forward format, incorporating props like the Pilates ball, magic ring, light weights, and resistance bands to keep things interesting.
So what’s the purpose of Reformer Pilates, and what does it actually help with? We focus on building strength, mobility, and coordination through both full-body exercises and targeted muscle isolation. It’s all about core strength, total-body stability, balance, and that magical mind-body connection. Our goal is to get you moving better so you feel better, like every day is FR!DAY!
If you recall, earlier we mentioned how you can control how challenging an exercise may be. At FR!DAY, every class is for every body. You can expect your instructor to offer options throughout class so you can scale movements to your ability and comfort level. We also offer private sessions for one-on-one instruction, a perfect way for first-timers to build confidence.
In our classes we cue breathwork, as it is one of the foundations of Pilates. It’s through the connection of movement and breath that the mind-body connection is created.When you focus on breathing, you naturally slow down, become more intentional, and start to truly connect with your body.
Short History of Pilates
Pilates was the brainchild of Joseph Pilates, who originally developed Pilates during World War 1 before bringing his movement method called “Contrology” to the United States. In New York, he refined it and taught it to others who after his death, called it the method Pilates. Today it is a viral exercise method focused on strength, control, and mindful movement. It has since evolved into a global fitness phenomenon focused on strength, control, and mindful movement.
The FR!DAY Pilates Approach
As Pilates and Reformer Pilates have grown in popularity, countless variations and interpretations have popped up. Each studio has its own flavor, and ours is bright, bold, and a little bit cheeky. At FR!DAY Pilates, we deliver Pilates-inspired movements in a group fitness format that’s fast-paced, mixed-level, and designed for everyone. Classes blend traditional Pilates moves with strength-building, mobility-enhancing, and coordination-improving exercises.
While traditional Pilates can feel strict or overly structured, at FR!DAY we want every day to feel like, well… Friday, full of endless possibilities. We’ve created an inviting, inclusive space where everybody has the potential to grow. Be prepared to work out to upbeat music, be welcomed by bright, positive energy, and experience strength-based movement in an environment that prioritizes community. Our instructors scale movements throughout class to make them approachable for both beginners and advanced movers alike.
Benefits of Reformer Pilates
Physical Benefits: Strengthens the core, improves balance, reduces stress, and enhances coordination, all helping you feel stronger, more aligned, and more energized in your body. The exercises target every part of the body and are complementary to other forms of movement, from running to strength training.
Mental Benefits: The mind-body connection is at the heart of every Pilates practice at FR!DAY. We know these 50 minutes are sacred, your time to unplug, move, and recharge. We emphasize breath, presence, and intention to help you feel more grounded and connected to yourself.
Why it’s ideal for those seeking effective movement without joint strain: As a low-impact, often non-weight-bearing exercise system, Pilates is ideal for strengthening muscles without stressing the joints. It’s power without punishment, perfect for longevity and daily life.
Who Is Reformer Pilates Good For?
Can beginners join without experience? Absolutely. While we recommend three private sessions before joining a group class, it’s not required. Anyone can take class at FR!DAY, no experience necessary, just curiosity and a good attitude.
With proper guidance, Pilates is an incredible tool for rehabilitation and managing chronic pain. By strengthening the body and linking movement to the mind, resilience and confidence are built over time. Pilates is adaptable, and there’s always a way to modify movements for comfort and accessibility.
In this guided class, you’ll find an unexpected tranquility in the challenge of each movement. While you’re strengthening your body, there’s also a rhythmic flow and breath-driven focus that makes it appealing even to those who don’t enjoy traditional gym workouts. It’s effort, but make it elegant.
What to Expect in Your First Class at FR!DAY Pilates
Plan to arrive 10 minutes early for your first class to check in and sign your waiver. Bring grip socks, and wear comfortable, form-fitting clothing to avoid snags with the reformer. Be sure to fuel up beforehand and bring water to stay hydrated. Bonus tip: come ready to have fun — we promise you’ll sweat and smile.
What happens in a typical session? You’ll warm up, fire up your core, build upper and lower body strength, repeat with variations, and end with a restorative legs-in-straps sequence. Basically, a full-body flow that leaves you feeling lengthened and strong.
How do instructors help first-timers feel supported and confident? Our instructors meet you where you are. They’ll walk you through the reformer setup, explain what to expect, and guide you throughout class so you feel supported, confident, and capable every step of the way.
How to Book Your Pilates Class at FR!DAY Pilates
Book directly on our website or through the FR!DAY PILATES app. We have two convenient Tucson locations, so it’s easy to find a class near you, from Marana to Vail. Join us at FR!DAY PILATES Central, located at Crossroads Festival at Grant & Swan or FR!DAY PILATES Downtown located on the corner of E 6th St & N 6th Ave.
Click here to try our 2-class intro pack for just $49, a perfect way to see what all the buzz is about!
Pilates has gained popularity recently, and for good reason. At FR!DAY, we prioritize its benefits for both mind and body while building a supportive, vibrant community. Exercise is always good, but what truly matters is the experience. The FR!DAY experience is uplifting, fun, and full of potential, just like every Friday should be. Our ultimate goal? That you leave feeling lighter, stronger, and happier. Come join us, where every day feels like Friday.
About the Author:
Giorgia Menetre is a certified Pilates instructor at FR!DAY Pilates. With a comprehensive certification in reformer Pilates from Balanced Body, as well as a Bachelor's of Fine Arts in Dance. She is passionate about helping the FR!DAY community in building confidence and strength via their Pilates practice.
About the Editor:
Kelly Hart, founder of Digital Strat House, is a marketing professional with a degree from the Eller College of Management and years of experience helping businesses create engaging content and grow online.
About the Reviewer:
Soleil Schwabe Chiquette is the Owner of FR!DAY Pilates. Soleil has dedicated the last 10 years of her life to the fitness industry with experience and certifications in yoga, group fitness, cycling & Pilates.