Reformer is a specialized piece of equipment designed to facilitate Pilates exercises. The reformer consists of a frame with a sliding carriage, springs, ropes, pulleys, and adjustable bars or straps. The carriage is attached to springs of varying resistance levels, which can be adjusted to provide resistance or assistance during exercises.

The reformer allows for a wide range of exercises to be performed in various positions, including supine,prone, sitting, kneeling, or standing. The springs provide resistance that challenges muscles, while the pulleys and straps offer support and assistance for proper alignment and movement.

Reformer Pilates exercises are often focused on improving core strength, flexibility, balance, and overall body awareness. The reformer's versatility and adjustable resistance make it suitable for individuals of all fitness levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners.

Reformer Pilates classes can effectively achieve individual needs and goals. Reformer class provides dynamic and effective workout for those seeking to improve their physical fitness and well-being.

Some individuals may prefer the added support and versatility of the reformer, while others may enjoy the simplicity and accessibility of mat Pilates. Both can be effective forms of exercise when practiced consistently and with proper technique.

Requiring two private sessions before signing up for a group class in Pilates can serve several purposes:

1. Introduction to Pilates Equipment: 

As Reformer is a specialized equipment, it provides an opportunity for you to familiarize yourself with the equipment in a one-on-one setting. This ensures that you understand how to adjust the equipment, use proper form, and perform exercises safely and effectively during the group class.

2. Instruction on Pilates Fundamentals:

Private sessions allow me to teach you the fundamental principles of Pilates, including proper breathing techniques, core engagement, emtremties alignment, spinal articulation, and movement control. This foundation is essential for getting the most out of group classes and reducing the risk of injury.

3. Assessment and Goal Setting:

Private sessions allow me to assess your fitness level, movement patterns, strengths, weaknesses, and any specific needs or goals you may have. This information helps me tailor the group class to suit your individual needs and ensure that you receive proper guidance and support during the sessions.

4. Building Confidence and Comfort:

For individuals who are new to Pilates or group fitness classes in general, private sessions can help build confidence and comfort with the exercises, equipment, and environment before joining a larger group setting. This can reduce anxiety and apprehension and make the transition to group classes smoother and more enjoyable.

Overall, requiring two private sessions before signing up for a group class if you are NEW to Reformer which helps ensure that you have a safe, effective, and positive experience by providing personalized instruction, individualized attention, and a solid foundation in Pilates fundamentals.

Both Reformer Pilates and mat Pilates offer numerous benefits for physical fitness and overall well-being, but they have some differences in terms of the experience and the specific benefits they provide.

Benefits of Reformer Pilates:

1. Variable Resistance: The springs and pulley system on the reformer provide variable resistance, allowing for a wide range of resistance levels to be used in exercises. This can help challenge muscles in different ways and provide a more customized workout.

2. Support and Assistance: The reformer provides support and assistance through the use of straps, ropes, and springs, making it easier to perform certain exercises and providing additional support for individuals with limited mobility or injuries.

3. Versatility: The reformer offers a greater variety of exercises compared to mat Pilates, as it allows for exercises to be performed in different positions (supine,prone, sitting, kneeling, standing) and with added resistance or assistance.

4. Core Engagement: The moving carriage on the reformer requires constant engagement of the core muscles to stabilize the body during exercises, leading to improved core strength and stability.

5. Alignment and Posture: As lots of Reformer exercises are closed-chain or pseudo-closed chain, therefore it provides feedback in your motor learning as well as body alignment and posture, making it easier to maintain proper form during exercises and promoting better alignment and posture over time.