Reformer Pilates in Newmarket: your beginner's guide to a first class
Thinking about trying Reformer Pilates in Newmarket but not sure what to expect? Here is everything you need to know before your first class at Mimi's.
If you have been scrolling past Reformer Pilates videos and wondering whether it is for you, you are in the right place. At Mimi's Collective on Craven Way in Newmarket, a lot of our clients walk through the door having never touched a reformer before. This guide covers what the reformer actually is, what happens in a first class, and how to start without feeling out of your depth.
What is a Pilates reformer?
A reformer is a bed-like frame with a sliding carriage, a footbar, adjustable springs and a set of straps. The springs add resistance or support, so the same exercise can feel gentle or seriously challenging depending on how your instructor sets it up. That is what makes reformer work so good for every level: the machine adapts to you, not the other way round.
Because the movement is controlled and low impact, it is kind on the joints while still building real strength through your core, legs, glutes, back and arms.
What happens in your first class
Our beginners-only classes are built around the fundamentals. Expect to:
- Get a walkthrough of the reformer, how to get on and off safely, and how the springs change each exercise.
- Learn the breathing and core engagement that underpins every Pilates movement.
- Work through footwork, bridging, arm work with the straps and gentle stretches.
- Get hands-on attention to alignment, because our groups are small enough for your instructor to actually see you.
Nobody expects you to know the exercise names or get everything right first time. The aim is to leave feeling stretched, a little worked, and confident enough to come back.
What to wear and bring
Wear fitted, comfortable activewear so your instructor can see your alignment and nothing catches in the springs. Grip socks are a good idea on the reformer, and bring a water bottle. Arrive five to ten minutes early for your first visit so you can settle in. There is free parking on site, which makes life much easier than hunting for a space in town.
Do I need to be fit or flexible?
No. This is the most common worry we hear, and the honest answer is that Pilates is how you build strength and flexibility, not something you need before you start. Whether you are new to exercise, returning after a break or coming back after an injury, our beginner class is designed as a gentle yet effective introduction. If you are recovering from an injury or have a medical condition, check with your GP or physio first and let your instructor know before class.
How to get started at Mimi's
New to reformer? Our intro offer gives you 3 classes for £45. Beginner classes run on Mondays at 7.30pm. Once you have the basics, you can move into our All Levels classes, which offer variations for beginners right through to more experienced clients.
Book your beginner classes or explore our Reformer Pilates classes.
Finding us
Mimi's Collective is at 10 Craven Way, Newmarket, CB8 0BW, with free parking on site. We are an easy drive from Exning, Kentford, Burwell, Fordham and Soham, and a short hop from Bury St Edmunds and Cambridge. Get directions and contact details.
