My Reformer Pilates Era

Trying something new, finding my strength, and learning to slow down.

So, why Pilates?

For the past 4 years, running has been my go-to form of exercise. Give me a pair of running shoes, and I’m happy.

But after completing 5 half marathons and 2 full marathons and a mountian of injuries I decided to try something completely different: Reformer Pilates.

I'll be honest, walking into my first class, I had absolutely no idea what to expect. I had seen Reformer Pilates all over Instagram, but watching someone else do it is very different from actually getting on the machine yourself

As someone who loves running, I’ve always thought of exercise as something that should leave me sweaty, exhausted and feeling like I had really worked.

Pilates has completely changed that idea for me.

One of the things I’m learning is that a workout doesn't have to leave you completely exhausted to be effective. Reformer Pilates focuses on controlled movements, strength, stability, balance and mobility — and somehow, those small, slow movements can be so much harder than they look.

There have definitely been moments during class where I’ve thought, “Surely this tiny movement can't be that difficult?”

Spoiler: it is.

The beginning

Starting something new is always a little intimidating.

There are unfamiliar exercises, equipment that looks slightly complicated, and moments where you’re trying to work out whether your leg is supposed to be there or somewhere completely different.

But after a few classes, I started feeling more comfortable.

I began recognising some of the exercises and understanding how my body was supposed to move. I stopped worrying so much about whether I was doing everything perfectly and started focusing more on how the movements actually felt.

And that, for me, has been one of the best parts

Learning to slow down

Running has taught me a lot about pushing myself.

Pilates is teaching me something different: control.

There is something strangely humbling about being told to perform a tiny movement slowly and discovering that it requires far more concentration than expected.

Instead of focusing on pace, distance or a finishing time, I’m learning to focus on the movement itself.

No kilometres.

No splits.

No finish line.

Just me, the reformer and the next movement.

Pilates and running

I don't think Pilates will ever replace running for me — and I don't want it to.

Running is still the thing that makes me feel free. It gives me the opportunity to clear my head, explore new places and challenge myself.

But I’m beginning to see Pilates as something that complements running rather than competes with it.

Running is about putting one foot in front of the other and moving forward.

Pilates is about slowing down, strengthening the muscles that help support that movement, and paying attention to how my body is actually working.

The two workout complement each other!

The little wins

One of my favourite things about starting something new is noticing the small improvements.

Maybe an exercise that felt impossible during my first class suddenly feels a little easier.

Maybe I can hold a position for longer.

Maybe my balance has improved.

Or maybe I simply walk out of class thinking, “Okay… I actually really enjoyed that.”

Those little moments are what keep me coming back.

I'm learning that progress doesn't always have to mean a new personal best or a faster time. Sometimes progress is simply feeling more confident in your own body.

What I’ve learned so far

My Reformer Pilates journey is still relatively new, and I definitely wouldn't consider myself a Pilates expert.

But already, it has taught me a few things:

You can be a beginner again.
Even when you're comfortable with one form of exercise, trying something new can challenge you in completely different ways.

Slow doesn't mean easy.
Some of the smallest movements can be some of the hardest.

Strength isn't always obvious.
You don't necessarily need to lift heavy weights or run faster to become stronger.

Movement doesn't have to be about performance.
Sometimes it's enough to simply move your body because it feels good.

Trying something new is worth it.
Even if you feel awkward at first, you might discover something you genuinely enjoy.

What’s next?

For now, I'm just enjoying the journey.

I'm not setting myself a huge Pilates goal or expecting to suddenly become amazing at it. I want to keep showing up, keep learning and see where it takes me.

Maybe I'll eventually become one of those people who knows exactly what every Pilates exercise is called.

Maybe I'll finally understand what all the straps are for.

And maybe I'll stop questioning why something that looks so easy can make my muscles shake!

For now, I'm happy to be a beginner.

Because that's another thing this journey has reminded me: you don't have to be good at something to enjoy it.

Sometimes, you just have to start.

And for me, starting Reformer Pilates has been a fun little addition to my everyday life — one slow, controlled movement at a time.

Here’s to trying new things, getting stronger, and enjoying the journey along the way. ♡

My Pilates Studio Recommendations

I wanted to share two that I’ve really enjoyed.Whether you’re completely new to Reformer Pilates or looking for somewhere new to try, these are two studios I’d happily recommend.

KX Pilates

What I really like about KX is that the classes are only 50 minutes, making it easy to fit a workout into a busy day. The studio offers different class styles, including Basics, Signature, Strength, Advanced and Active Recovery, so there are options depending on your experience and what you want from your workout.

I think KX is particularly good if you enjoy workouts that challenge you and leave you feeling like you've really worked your whole body.

📍 Where: Marina Square, 5 Footbridge Boulevard, Wentworth Point NSW 2127

Love Athletica

If you’re in Canberra, Love Athletica in Braddon is another studio I’d definitely recommend checking out.

Love Athletica takes a more athletic approach to Reformer Pilates, combining strength training, weights and props with bursts of HIIT and finishing with a yoga-inspired stretch and flow. Their signature Athletic class runs for 50 minutes and is designed as a full-body workout.

I love that the class feels like more than just a traditional Pilates session. You can expect to work hard, get your heart rate up and definitely feel those muscles burning — but the yoga-inspired stretch at the end gives you a chance to slow down and reset.

📍 Where: 70 Northbourne Avenue, Braddon ACT 2601

Please note: This is based on my personal experience and is not a professional fitness recommendation. Class offerings, prices and introductory deals can change, so check each studio's website before booking.