Reformer Pilates 1
Building your foundation in Edinburgh
You know the equipment, you understand the basics. Now you're ready to build something real. Reformer Pilates 1 at Luma Pilates in the heart of the New Town is where your practice properly begins, guided by some of Edinburgh's most experienced instructors
Building your foundation. Reformer Pilates 1
Classes move through the Reformer and tower with a focus on the core Pilates principles in action: spinal articulation, breathing coordination, footwork sequences and developing a genuine awareness of your own body. The pace is measured so there's still time to understand why each movement matters, not just how to get through it.
Expect to leave feeling genuinely worked. The goal here isn't to rush toward the next level. It's to move well, consistently, so that when you do progress, it feels earned.
Good for: those who've completed Fundamentals Progressing, or who come with some Reformer experience from another studio.
What Reformer
Pilates 1 builds
This is where the Pilates principles stop being instructions and start becoming instinctive. Spinal articulation, breathing coordination, footwork sequences, lateral work. The full vocabulary of Reformer practice, taught at a pace that lets you understand not just what you are doing but why.
Classes are small, never more than ten, which means your instructor can see your movement in detail and correct it in real time. That level of attention is what separates Luma's classes from a general fitness environment.
Most clients spend a meaningful amount of time at this level before moving to Reformer 2. The work done here underpins everything that follows.
What to expect in class
Class duration: 50 minutes
Class size: Small groups – never more than 10 per session
Equipment: Premium Reformers and tower
What to wear: Comfortable, form-fitting clothing and grip socks – available in our shop if you need them
Want to go deeper?
Reformer Pilates 2 introduces more complex sequences and a faster pace.
Reformer Pilates 1 FAQ
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Fundamentals is about getting to know the equipment and the basic principles. Reformer 1 assumes that knowledge and starts to build on it – the pace is faster, the sequences are more connected, and your instructor will spend less time explaining and more time refining. You'll also start working across the Reformer and tower in a single class.
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Most clients spend two to four months in Reformer 1. There's no fixed timeline – it depends on how often you come, how your body responds, and when your instructor feels your movement quality is ready for the added complexity of Reformer 2. The goal is always to move well rather than move quickly.
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Yes, and for many people with prior experience it's the right starting point at Luma rather than going back to Fundamentals. Book an intro pack and let your instructor know your background – they'll confirm whether Reformer 1 or Fundamentals Progressing is the better fit for where you are.
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Classes work through foundational Reformer exercises – footwork series, arm and leg work, abdominal series, and the beginnings of spinal articulation sequences. The emphasis is on form, breath and understanding the connection between exercises rather than the volume or speed of movement.
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Pilates can be a brilliant way to support recovery, build strength and improve mobility – but it depends on the nature of your injury. We always recommend getting clearance from your physiotherapist or GP first. Let your instructor know before class and they'll offer modifications to keep you moving safely and confidently.
Ready to get started?
Book a class, check what's coming up on the timetable, or get in touch if you'd like a hand working out which level is right for you.