Bend, stretch and don’t fall off: A guide to ASU’s Reformer Pilates

At Arizona State University, we Sun Devils believe fitness should empower and educate. If you have walked by the Tempe Sun Devil Fitness Complex Pilates studio and peeked in to see students moving effortlessly on smooth machines with straps and springs, you have caught a glimpse into the wonder of the reformer. It’s quite possibly the most life-changing piece of fitness equipment in our curriculum.

It may seem intimidating at first, but each part of this machine was designed with a specific purpose: to stretch, strengthen and rehabilitate your body through mindful, conscious movement.

Reformer basics: What is a reformer?

Reformer: A specialized piece of Pilates equipment that incorporates a moving platform, variable springs and securing straps to produce resistance-based motion. Reformer Pilates achieves strength, posture correction and flexibility while maintaining exercises in a low-impact and universally accessible manner.

What to do in class

In ASU’s Reformer Pilates class, you'll fine-tune your own springs and settings. No need to worry, though, your instructor will take you through it step-by-step. Your classes will incorporate core exercises, flexibility training and conscious breathing to provide a challenging, yet restful, workout.

No matter how much experience you have, you'll finish class feeling stronger, more balanced and more connected to your body.

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To provide a better understanding of what this reformer may be like from a newcomer's perspective, we interviewed Danae Radlauer, a senior majoring in earth and environmental science and a new student to ASU’s Reformer Pilates classes.

Radlauer stated that the reason she attended Reformer Pilates classes was that she wanted to start a weight-training regimen; however, she didn’t feel comfortable with the first impression she had of the typical gym environment and lifting weights in front of others.

Especially with the change in weather, she has noticed that her body feels rigid and uncomfortable, but she can definitely feel a gain in mobility. However, after practicing Pilates, she feels a sense of relief. 

“It is the first time that I have not been sore in a week, that I have been able to move about,” she said.

She enthusiastically explained her struggles in class, particularly with exercising her arms. 

“I never exercise my arms at all. Even with the lightest weight, it feels like my arms are going to fall off,” she said. But she enjoys her struggles as a part of her learning.

More than anything, Danae emphasized the profound impact the studio environment has had on her. She described her first class, where another student introduced herself and immediately made her feel welcome. 

“Everyone is so kind,” she said. “I never feel embarrassed to ask, ‘Am I doing this right?’ or ‘Can I skip this?’ or ‘Can I drop a weight?’” 

That sense of encouragement keeps her coming back. “The instructors just want you to show up,” Radlauer added. “It’s such a welcoming space.”

Join a class in the studio

At the Sun Devil Fitness Pilates studio, instructors greet you with kindness. Whether you’re a new student to the reformer or wanting to advance your practice, the Pilates program at ASU provides you with a warm and nurturing environment in which to move, learn and grow.

Try the reformer and see what it will do for you. For your strength, posture and energy, you will thank yourself.

You can join the classes on the SDFC Group Wellness website. Also, don’t forget to catch the Nancy Tries Pilates video!