What Is a Reformer Pilates Studio & Is It Actually Worth It?

If you’ve ever searched “reformer Pilates studio near me”, you’re definitely not alone. Reformer Pilates studios are popping up everywhere across Australia—from Sydney and Melbourne to smaller suburban hubs—and they’re often booked out weeks in advance.

But with higher prices than a standard gym and a machine that looks a bit intimidating at first glance, many people ask the same question:

👉 Is Reformer Pilates actually worth it?

At Yoga with yogi, we work with clients who are brand new to Pilates as well as those switching from gyms, yoga, or physio rehab. So let’s break it down honestly—what a reformer Pilates studio is, how it works, how often you should go, and whether it can really get you fit.

What Is a Reformer Pilates Studio?

A reformer Pilates studio is a dedicated fitness space that uses reformer machines—specialised equipment designed to build strength, flexibility, balance, and control through resistance-based movement.

The reformer machine includes:

• A sliding carriage
  
• Adjustable springs for resistance
  
• Straps, foot bars, and shoulder blocks
  

Unlike mat Pilates, reformer Pilates uses controlled resistance, which means your muscles are working throughout the entire movement—not just at the hardest part.

Most studios offer:

• Small group classes (usually 4–10 people)
  
• Private 1:1 sessions
  
• Beginner, intermediate, and rehab-focused programs
  

What Happens in a Reformer Pilates Class?

A typical class in a reformer Pilates studio lasts 45–60 minutes and includes:

1. Warm-up – gentle mobility and breath work
   
2. Core activation – deep abdominal and pelvic stability
   
3. Full-body strength work – legs, arms, glutes, and back
   
4. Balance & coordination – controlled movement patterns
   
5. Cool-down & stretch

It’s low-impact but incredibly effective. Many first-timers say, “I didn’t think it was hard… until the next day!”

What Is the 10/20/30 Rule in Pilates?

You might hear instructors talk about the 10/20/30 rule, originally popularised by Joseph Pilates himself.

Here’s what it means:

• 10 sessions – You’ll feel the difference
  
• 20 sessions – You’ll see the difference
  
• 30 sessions – You’ll have a completely new body
  

This rule still holds true today, especially in reformer Pilates studios where progress is structured and consistent.

With regular attendance, most people notice:

• Improved posture within weeks
  
• Reduced back and neck pain
  
• Stronger core and glutes
  
• Better movement confidence
  

How Many Times a Week Should I Go to Reformer Pilates?

This is one of the most common questions we get at Yoga with yogi.

Recommended frequency:

• Beginners: 2 times per week
  
• Intermediate: 3 times per week
  
• Advanced or athletic training: 3–4 times per week
  

According to Fitness Australia data, people who attend reformer Pilates 2–3 times weekly experience up to 40% improvement in core strength within 8–10 weeks.

The key isn’t overdoing it—it’s consistency.

Can You Get Fit Just Doing Reformer Pilates?

Short answer: Yes, absolutely.

Reformer Pilates is a full-body workout that:

• Builds lean muscle
  
• Improves cardiovascular efficiency (especially in dynamic classes)
  
• Enhances mobility and balance
  
• Reduces injury risk
  

Many Australians replace gym workouts entirely with reformer Pilates—especially those who:

• Hate high-impact training
  
• Have joint or back issues
  
• Want strength without bulking
  

That said, some people like to combine reformer Pilates with walking, swimming, or yoga for variety—and that works beautifully too.

Reformer Pilates Studio vs Gym: What’s the Difference?

Here’s a simple comparison:

Reformer Pilates Studio

✔ Instructor-led every session
✔ Focus on technique and alignment
✔ Low injury risk
✔ Small group accountability
✔ Personalised guidance

Traditional Gym

✖ Often self-guided
✖ Higher injury risk without coaching
✖ Easy to lose motivation
✖ Less focus on posture and mobility

This is why many physios and health professionals across Australia recommend reformer Pilates as a long-term fitness solution, not just a trend.

Is Reformer Pilates Actually Worth It?

Let’s talk cost—because yes, reformer Pilates studios are usually more expensive than gyms.

Average costs in Australia:

• Casual class: $35–$45
  
• Class packs: $25–$35 per class
  
• Private sessions: $80–$120 per hour
  

So… is it worth it?

For most people, yes, because you’re paying for:

• Expert instruction
  
• Small class sizes
  
• Reduced injury risk
  
• Better long-term results
  

In fact, a 2023 Australian wellness survey found that 78% of reformer Pilates clients felt it delivered better value than gym memberships when considering results and injury prevention.

How Much Does a Reformer Pilates Instructor Get Paid?

This is a popular question for those considering a career in Pilates.

In Australia, reformer Pilates instructor pay typically ranges from:

• $50–$80 per class (group sessions)
  
• $90–$120+ per hour (private sessions)
  

Experienced instructors working in premium studios or running their own programs can earn significantly more.

It’s a growing career path, especially as demand for reformer Pilates studios continues to rise across Australia.

Who Is Reformer Pilates Best For?

Reformer Pilates is ideal for:

• Beginners wanting structured guidance
  
• Office workers with posture or back issues
  
• Athletes improving performance
  
• Postnatal or rehab clients (with appropriate classes)
  
• Seniors wanting safe strength training
  

You don’t need to be flexible or fit to start—good studios meet you where you are.

How Often Will You See Results?

Most people notice:

• Better posture in 2–3 weeks
  
• Strength gains within 4–6 weeks
  
• Visible toning in 8–12 weeks
  

That’s why so many Australians stick with reformer Pilates long-term—it delivers results without burning you out.

Final Verdict: Is a Reformer Pilates Studio Worth It?

If you’re looking for:
✔ Safe, low-impact fitness
✔ Stronger core and posture
✔ Long-term results
✔ Expert guidance every session

Then yes—a reformer Pilates studio is absolutely worth it.

It’s not just exercise. It’s intelligent movement.

🌿 Ready to Try Reformer Pilates?

At Yoga with yogi, we offer beginner-friendly reformer Pilates studio sessions designed to help you move better, feel stronger, and stay consistent—without intimidation.

👉 Small group classes
👉 Expert instructors
👉 Supportive, welcoming environment

Book your first reformer Pilates class today and feel the difference for yourself.