Pilates Reformer Updates
In an effort to make our Pilates program more structured and progressive for our members, Pilates reformer at the Y is now a paid program. Members can now buy packages of Pilates classes and make reservations up to 45 days in advance through the website and 30 days through the app. Financial assistance is available for up to 25% on Pilates Reformer packages for those who qualify. Please apply online.
This change comes with some restructuring to provide a safer experience. We offer Levels 1, 2 and 3; however, Level 3 offerings are only available at select locations with the intention of making them available at all Y branches in the future. We ask members to work progressively toward their next level, so classes will be productive and safe for all members.
View the Pilates Reformer tab below to learn more.
What is Pilates?
Pilates is an exercise practice that promotes strength, coordination, flexibility and balance. Using an apparatus called a reformer, Pilates reformer practitioners move through a series of exercises and low-impact movements to help improve posture, relieve pain, increase focus and enjoy a full-body workout like no other. Essentially, Pilates reformer improves how your body moves and feels during daily life.
PILATES REFORMER FUNDAMENTALS
Pilates Reformer Fundamentals is an introductory course to the methodology of Pilates. If you’ve never done reformer work, this is the place to begin. This course is highly recommended to attend before attempting other levels.
You’ll Learn:
- How to change the springs and understand the equipment
- Breathwork and body awareness
- Joint articulation, stabilization and mobilization
- Body awareness and, control and coordination
- Exercises may include (but are not limited to) full expressions or variations on coccyx curl, roll down, footwork, hundred, arm work, bottom lift and side bend.
After you’ve mastered the basics, move on to Pilates Reformer Level 1 classes.
PILATES REFORMER
At the Y, Pilates reformer is a progressive program that focuses on quality of movement, breath work and mind-body connection. Our new structure allows members to purchase class packages and then reserve classes up to 45 days in advance through the website and up to 30 days in advance through the app. You must cancel within 24 hours of class reservation to have credits refunded. You have 6 months from the time of purchase to use your package of classes, and packages can be used at any Y branch that offers Pilates reformer classes. Financial assistance is available for up to 25% on Pilates Reformer packages for those who qualify. Please apply online.
The more classes you buy, the lower the per-class rate:
Pilates Reformer Package Prices
1 class pack: $30.00
4 classes pack: $100.00
8 classes pack: $180.00
12 classes pack: $240.00
We offer Level 1, 2 & 3 classes. If you are new to our classes, we ask that you either take our Pilates Reformer Fundamentals class, have a private session with a Pilates reformer instructor or get permission from an instructor before you attend any class. We ask members to work progressively toward their next level. Level 1 members will not be able to switch back and forth between levels, but with permission from your instructor, you may switch between Levels 2 & 3. This is a members only program.
PLEASE NOTE: Once you make a purchase, there is a 30 minute delay between our purchase system and our booking system. Please allow for a 30 minute wait period between purchasing a package and scheduling your classes.
Pilates Reformer Level 1
Attend Level 1 before attempting other levels. Challenge both your brain and the way you organize the body to move. Reservation is required.
Level 1 Practitioners:
Understand the Reformer spring values and how they are used in exercises
Are comfortable with spinal articulation
Are becoming more familiar with the names of the exercises
Can control the equipment, including the closing of the carriage
Use breath work appropriate for the movement
Are honing their skills in moving the body with precision
Are beginning to create flow in their transitions in between exercises
Exercises may include, but are not limited to, full expressions or variations on: Pulling Straps, Long Stretch Series, Short Box Series, Knee Stretch, Stomach Massage, Short Spine.
Register
Pilates Reformer Level 2
Level 2 Practitioners:
Show proficiency in Level 1 exercises
Know the Reformer springs for each exercise
Can confidently mobilize or stabilize
Can safely modify exercises
Can perform exercises that require kneeling or standing on the Reformer
Are learning more complex sequencing and organization of the body
Are competent at enhancing movement with breath
Exercises may include, but are not limited to, full expressions or variations on: Rowing, Teaser, Coordination, Chest Expansion, Back Stroke, Swan, Breast Stroke, Semi Circle, Climb a Tree.
Pilates Reformer Level 3
Reformer Level 3 is appropriate for those with 5+ years of experience in Pilates reformer or the equivalent. There is a continuous flow in class and students are required to understand both the equipment and the movement pattern of the exercises. We focus not just on advanced skills, but build the strength necessary to perform them. Internal body awareness, such as a deep understanding of breath work and initiation of spinal motions, is equally as important. Please consult with the instructor in order to join this class.
MAT PILATES
The Y is rolling out the mat for our members. Mat Pilates offers the same benefits and techniques as a Pilates Reformer class but without the equipment. Tone your muscles, increase flexibility, improve mindfulness and control and nurture your connection between your mind and body. Pilates offers a rich and thorough core workout that will leave you strong and well postured. Bonus: Mat Pilates can also help you improve your Reformer work.
Pilates - Mat
Mat Pilates is a core conditioning program that improves muscle control, flexibility, coordination, strength and tone while performing body weight exercises on a mat. With a focus on proper breathing, good posture and body awareness, a Pilates practice coaxes the body back into its natural alignment.
Pilates Mat Fusion
This class strengthens the core and balances the body through a blend of breath, traditional Mat Pilates movements and a combination of contemporary core-strengthening exercises.
An Important Note About Pilates Reformer Classes
Pilates Reformer classes have a 4-8 person capacity (depending on location) to allow for personal attention and correction from qualified, experienced instructors. As with any physical activity, please consult your health care provider to ensure that Pilates is right for you. Group exercise classes are appropriate for healthy persons without injury. People with injuries should not participate in group classes without permission from their healthcare provider and instructor. People with injuries who wish to explore the rehabilitative qualities of Pilates should begin with private sessions. Participants in classes with injury issues (who are cleared by their healthcare provider) should approach the instructor before class to inform them of their needs or to ask for modifications.
Ultimately, each participant is responsible for their own health and safety within the class. Please plan to arrive a few minutes early to allow for set-up time. For safety reasons, participants are not allowed in the Pilates Studio without an instructor present. If you are more than 5 minutes late you will not be able to join the class.
PRIVATE PILATES
Looking for a one-on-one Pilates training experience? Consider private or semi-private Pilates instruction.