New to Reformer Pilates.
Everything you need to know before your first class in Almancil, Algarve.
What is Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates uses a spring-resistance machine, the Reformer, to guide the body through controlled movements that build core strength, improve posture, and increase flexibility. The springs provide resistance on some exercises and support on others, which is what makes it accessible for complete beginners and effective for experienced movers at the same time.
How is it different from mat Pilates?
Mat Pilates uses your bodyweight. The Reformer adds spring resistance and a moving carriage, which gives you more range of movement, more support when you need it, and more challenge when you're ready for it. Your instructor adjusts the springs and exercises to suit your experience.
Do you need experience?
No. Start with our Beginners Course, Reformer & Tower or Open Reformer. Your instructor will explain the equipment and guide you through the exercises. Give yourself time to learn; you don't need to know the names or get everything right on day one.
What to expect.
Here is what happens from the moment you book to the moment you leave after your first class.
Start from where you are.
You don't need to be fit to start.
You don't need a regular exercise routine to enquire about starting. Tell us about your experience so we can help you choose a class. Classes are taught in English, with some in both English and Portuguese.
It works particularly well for golfers and padel players working on rotation and stability, anyone with lower back issues or stiffness that's crept in over the years, and people who want to get stronger without heavy impact on their joints.
If you have a specific injury or medical condition, let us know before you book. We can usually work around it, and if a private session would be a better starting point, we'll say so.
About private sessions →
Where to start.
Two class types are ideal for beginners. Both run at a pace that gives you time to learn the movements properly.
Your Instructors.
Victoria Barton holds a Polestar Pilates Diploma and has taught since 2013. She and the team will help you learn the equipment, understand each exercise and build your practice at a manageable pace.
She opened Reformer Pilates Algarve in Almancil, the first dedicated group Reformer Pilates studio in the Algarve. Classes are deliberately small because good teaching requires actual attention.
If you're nervous about your first class, send a message first. She'll tell you what to expect and which class to book.
Meet the team →Questions first-timers ask.
The things most people wonder about before their first Reformer Pilates class.
You don't need to be fit. Reformer Pilates is low-impact and adjustable for every fitness level. Many people come to the studio having done very little exercise for years and find it completely manageable from day one. If anything, the Reformer is more approachable than many gym-based exercises because the springs support you through the movements.
Comfortable workout clothes you can move freely in. Leggings or fitted shorts work well. Avoid very loose trousers, they can get caught in the Reformer springs. Grip socks are required and available to buy at the studio.
Back pain has different causes. Tell us about your symptoms before booking so we can discuss whether a class or a private session is suitable. If you have ongoing or new pain, ask your healthcare professional for advice about exercise.
The mix changes from class to class. Reformer & Tower and Open Reformer welcome both beginners and experienced clients. If you'd prefer to learn alongside other newcomers, choose the four-week Beginners Course.
Absolutely. Drop-in visitors are welcome. Whether you're staying in Vilamoura, Quinta do Lago, Vale do Lobo, or anywhere else in the Algarve, you can book a single class online. A single class is €30 and valid for 14 days. Many people come for one class while on holiday and end up coming back for the rest of the week.
For most beginners, a group class is fine. Classes are kept small enough for your instructor to give you individual attention throughout. However, if you have a specific injury, are returning after a long break, or simply prefer to learn in private before joining a group, a 1:1 session is a very good starting point. Send Victoria a message and she'll help you decide.
That's completely normal and expected. There's a lot to take in at first, the machine itself, the springs, the different positions. Your instructor will guide you through each exercise. The goal for class one is to get familiar with the Reformer and do the movements in a way that's safe. The technique comes with time. There is no set number of classes you need to get comfortable.
Ready when you are.
Choose a beginner-friendly session online, or message us before you book. We'll help you find a starting point that suits your experience and schedule.