Why Reformer Pilates should be the core of your exercise routine (and is more affordable than you think)

Core strength is essential for nearly every type of movement, from lifting weights to running, and daily tasks like carrying groceries or climbing stairs.

While many of us focus on cardio, strength training, or calisthenics to build muscle and endurance, Reformer Pilates offers a unique, targeted way to strengthen the core like nothing else.

At Movement HQ we blend Reformer Pilates with other essential fitness disciplines to create a well-rounded workout routine, offering unbeatable value and expert guidance – all in one membership.

Why Core Strength Matters

Your core includes not just your abs but also your lower back, hips, and pelvic floor. A strong core improves posture, stability, and movement efficiency, while helping to prevent injuries.

However, building true core strength requires more than just crunches, planks and squats – it demands a multi-dimensional approach that targets the deep muscles responsible for stabilisation.

This is where Reformer Pilates truly shines.

Reformer Pilates: A core strength game-changer

The Pilates reformer is a machine with springs, pulleys, and a sliding carriage, offering adjustable resistance that challenges your muscles in ways traditional workouts can’t:

1. Deep core activation: Reformer Pilates engages deep core muscles including the transverse abdominis, which are often difficult to target with traditional exercises. As the base of the reformer bed is moving, these muscles stabilise your spine and support your entire body during movement.

2. Dynamic resistance: The reformer’s adjustable springs provide progressive resistance, meaning your core has to work harder to maintain stability. This multi-directional tension challenges your abs, obliques, hips, shoulders and lower back muscles more effectively through all planes of motion than bodyweight and weighted exercises alone.

3. Full-body engagement: Although core strength is the focus, Reformer Pilates also works your entire body. Every movement, from lunges to chest presses requires core stabilisation, making it a comprehensive workout that strengthens and sculpts your body while building core stability.

4. Improved flexibility and mobility: Reformer Pilates helps improve your flexibility and mobility – both crucial for reducing injury risk and enhancing performance in other types of workouts. As your flexibility improves, your muscles are better equipped to handle the demands of strength training and high-intensity exercise.

5. Better posture and alignment: Reformer Pilates emphasises proper alignment, which naturally engages your core. The slow controlled movements also improve your mind-body connection, making you more aware of good posture, ultimately reducing strain on your joints and allowing you to move more freely.

Balancing Reformer Pilates with strength and cardio exercise

While Reformer Pilates is exceptional for core strength and stability, it works best when combined with other forms of exercise like conditioning, strength training, and calisthenics.

Cardio and conditioning exercise improves cardiovascular health and endurance. Strong core muscles are essential for stabilising your body during these intense movements, and Reformer Pilates prepares your core to meet these demands.

Lifting weights during strength training builds muscle mass and increases bone density. A stable, strong core enhances your ability to lift heavier weights safely. Reformer Pilates strengthens the deep core muscles needed to support your spine and improve your form during strength exercises.

Bodyweight exercises like push-ups, squats, and pull-ups require core strength for proper form and control. The core stability gained from Reformer Pilates makes these movements easier and more effective.

Why Movement HQ is the Perfect Fit

At Movement HQ, we offer more than just a Pilates studio. For the same weekly membership cost, you get access to Reformer Pilates, conditioning, strength training, and calisthenics classes – all in small groups with specialised coaches who provide personal attention.

This unique combination makes Movement HQ the ideal choice for a balanced fitness routine that strengthens your core and enhances your overall fitness:

1. Personalised attention: Our small class sizes allow our expert coaches to give individualised feedback, ensuring you move safely and effectively. Whether you’re new to Reformer Pilates or experienced, our coaches tailor the exercises to suit your level.

2. Variety of classes: With access to multiple fitness disciplines, you can combine core-strengthening Reformer Pilates with high-intensity conditioning and strength training, preventing boredom, burnout and creating a well-rounded routine.

3. Exceptional value: Instead of paying for separate memberships at a Pilates studio and a gym, Movement HQ offers everything under one roof. This not only saves you money but also keeps your fitness journey consistent and comprehensive.

4. Expert Coaching: Our coaches are not only highly skilled but also dedicated to your personal success. With their guidance, you’ll learn proper form and technique, reducing your risk of injury and maximising results.

If you’re yet to experience the magic of Reformer Pilates, jump into our Reformer Studio – have a chat to us or check out our timetable and book here.

New to MHQ? Get 5 days of classes for just $0. No obligation to join.