
With Reformer Pilates coming to David Lloyd Poole, it might surprise you to know that there are already several established Reformer Pilates Studios in Poole – including specialist Full Equipment Pilates studios. These can offer a much wider range of equipment, not just limited to Reformer’s.
These studios are often led by highly qualified, experienced instructors, which means you’ll receive safer, more effective and more personalised classes.
In this blog, we’ll help you understand the differences between Reformer Studios available and how you can select the right Reformer Pilates Class for you.
Is Full Equipment Pilates better than just Reformer Pilates?
Did you know that a reformer is only one part of the original Pilates method? Joseph Pilates designed a full system that includes Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Ladder Barrel & Jumpboard.
Each piece of equipment serves a specific purpose and target different areas of the body. The ladder barrel, for example, is perfect for building lateral flexion strength. One of the main areas that need addressing, especially for lower back pain. Whilst moves like these could be modified on a Reformer, it’s difficult to achieve the same effect, and often is missed out in Reformer only classes.
This is why we believe that Full Equipment Pilates offers a far more balanced and effective approach compared to only focusing one piece of kit (Reformers for example).
How Qualified is your Reformer Pilates instructor?
It might surprise you to know that Pilates is an unregulated industry. Whilst Matwork Pilates requires a Level 3 qualification, there are no set standards for Reformer Pilates. Some courses can be taught in a day, whilst others require 12 months or more of intensive training, in-depth anatomy studies and rigorous assessments.
It’s always worth checking your instructor’s qualification before joining a class. Look for teachers who have studied comprehensive Pilates programs and have additional backgrounds in Sports Therapy, Physiotherapy or Rehabilitation – especially if you’re attending a class for injury recovery or back pain.
Every body is different – Your Reformer Pilates class should be too
The most effective Pilates Classes are the ones which are focused on you. Whilst general classes have their place, personalised Pilates classes can deliver much more effective results.
This level of attention is only possible with small class sizes – ideally a maximum of four people per class. It allows your instructor to adapt and tailor each exercise to suit your body, needs and goals, rather than a “one-size-fits-all” class.
Class Size Matters in Reformer Pilates in Poole Classes – For Safety and Results
Safety always comes first in our studio. Our instructors handle all equipment set up for participants – we don’t believe participants should be setting up their own equipment. This reduces the risks of accidents or incorrect adjustments. Even small setup mistakes can increase the chance of accidents occurring – so we reduce this risk by taking care of all the set up for our participants.
As Reformer Pilates Classes grow in popularity, so too do reports of accidents and injuries occurring. Recently there have been incidents of career-ending injuries sustained in Reformer Pilates Class, you can read the full story below:
Violinist whose career was ended by celebrity fitness trainer’s Pilates machine wins right to compensation
It’s stories like this, which highlight why it’s so important to choose a studio with clear safety procedures in place to reduce the chance of such accidents occurring.
Finding the right Reformer Pilates in Poole
Hopefully this gives you an insight into the Reformer Pilates in Poole. There is no ‘one-size-fits-all-studio’ – the key is finding one that matches your goals, needs and levels for a Poole Pilates Studio.
If you’d like to experience a Full Equipment Pilates studio, we’re currently offering 2 classes for £35 (available until 31st December 2025, subject to availability).
Contact us here if you would like to book your introductory session.

