New to Reformer Pilates in Edinburgh? Here’s what to expect
If you’ve been curious about Reformer Pilates but not quite sure what to expect when you walk through the door, you’re not alone. It’s one of the questions we hear most often at Luma, and it’s a fair one. The Reformer is an unusual-looking piece of kit, and turning up to something new in a city like Edinburgh, where studios have multiplied quickly in the last few years, can feel a little daunting.
Don’t worry – at Luma, you’re in very safe hands. Here’s what to expect…
What a Reformer looks like
The Reformer is a flat, padded platform on a sliding carriage, with a set of adjustable springs that create resistance. It looks more complex than it is. In practice, it’s a highly versatile piece of equipment that allows you to do a full-body workout lying down, sitting, standing, and everything in between, all with controlled resistance that can be dialled up or down depending on your level.
At Luma, all of our Reformers are professional-grade, beautiful and maintained to the highest standard. The studio itself is 190 square metres in the heart of Edinburgh's New Town: bright, calm, and nothing like a typical gym. It really is an urban oasis.
What happens in your first class
We always recommend new clients book our Fundamentals class first. The class size is small, which means you get proper attention from the instructor. You’ll learn how the carriage moves, how to use the springs and straps, and the basic principles of Pilates: core connection, breath, and alignment.
Nothing is rushed. Nobody expects you to look like you’ve been doing this for years. Our instructors are experienced at working with complete beginners, and the session is designed so that you leave feeling more confident, not more confused.
Is it hard?
It depends what you bring to it! Reformer Pilates can be made as challenging or as accessible as your body needs. Most people are surprised by how much they feel the deep stabilising muscles working, even in the gentler movements. It’s not cardio and it’s not weightlifting, but it’s not easy either. The effort is precise rather than exhausting.
If you’ve an injury or a physical condition you’re working around, let us know when you book. Our instructors are skilled at adapting exercises, and we would rather know in advance so we can make your first session as productive as possible.
How to progress from there
Our Fundamentals class is the natural starting point: small groups, no assumptions, and a pace that lets you get comfortable with the equipment before anything else. From there, Fundamentals Progressing builds on what you’ve learned and prepares you for the full class programme.
Most people then move into Pilates 1, and from there Pilates 2 and Pilates 3 increase the complexity and challenge progressively. You’re never pushed into a level that’s not right for you.
We also offer Mat Pilates, Barre, and Yoga classes, each taught by instructors who bring their own expertise and background to their classes. Many of our members mix class types throughout the week depending on what they feel their body needs.
Where we are and how to book
Luma Pilates is at 15 Northumberland Street North East Lane in the heart of Edinburgh's New Town, EH3 6LN. We’re easy to reach by bus or on foot from the city centre, and we’ve bike parking for up to 12 bikes. You can book classes online or through the Luma app.
If you’re not sure which class to start with, feel free to get in touch before booking. We’re always happy to point you in the right direction.
See you in class soon!
Max
Max Howarth is co-founder of Luma Pilates. He teaches across the studio's timetable, including Tuesday evening men's Pilates classes, and is currently completing his teaching certification.
