Unsure about the equipment?
Your instructor explains the Reformer and guides you through the exercises.
Explore group classes →
New to Reformer Pilates.
Everything you need to know before your first class in Almancil, Algarve.
Your first class starts here.
Worried about keeping up?
Start with a beginner-friendly format and give yourself time to learn.
Find a suitable class →Would you prefer a 1:1?
Discuss your experience and goals with us to choose your starting point.
Ask us where to start →
The Basics.
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?
You do not need experience to start with Reformer & Tower. Your instructor explains the equipment and guides the exercises. If you prefer individual attention, ask us about a private session.
What to expect.
Here is what happens from the moment you book to the moment you leave after your first class.
Before you arrive
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Book online through Momence. You'll get a confirmation email. Wear comfortable workout clothes. Bring grip socks, or buy a pair at the studio for a few euros.
Arriving at the studio
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The studio is inside Edificio Doza on Av. 5 de Outubro 143 in Almancil. Park at the Pingo Doce car park, a 3-minute walk. Arrive a few minutes early on your first visit so we can show you around.
Before the class starts
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Let your instructor know it's your first class. If you have any injuries or physical limitations, mention them now. They'll make sure you know what to do before the class begins and will keep an eye on you throughout.
The class itself
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Around 50 minutes. Your instructor will guide you through each exercise, what to do with your feet, your hands, your breath. A small group in the room. You'll have your own Reformer machine and full attention when you need it.
After class
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Ask your instructor about anything you found difficult or unfamiliar. They can suggest what to practise next and help you choose your next 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.
Golfers can explore our golf movement assessment. If you have a specific goal or need individual adjustments, contact us before choosing your session.
If an injury or medical condition affects exercise, contact us before booking. Share any guidance from your healthcare professional so we can discuss a suitable starting point.
About private sessions →
Classes.
Where to start.
Start with Reformer & Tower if you are new to the equipment. Explore all three class types below and ask us which session suits your experience.
Reformer & TowerFull-body strength and control.
Use the Reformer’s moving carriage and spring resistance, together with the Tower’s springs and bar. All levels welcome, including beginners.
Your instructor guides the exercises and adapts the class to your ability.
Use the Reformer’s moving carriage and spring resistance, together with the Tower’s springs and bar. All levels welcome, including beginners.
Your instructor guides the exercises and adapts the class to your ability.
Stretch & MobilityA slower session to work on moving more freely.
Focus on flexibility and range of movement through your hips, shoulders and back. Take time over each movement, with guidance from your instructor.
Focus on flexibility and range of movement through your hips, shoulders and back. Take time over each movement, with guidance from your instructor.
Golf PilatesMovement training for golfers.
Work on rotation, balance, strength and control relevant to golf. Exercises are adapted to your movement and experience. Explore Golf Pilates and the current assessment promotion →
Work on rotation, balance, strength and control relevant to golf. Exercises are adapted to your movement and experience. Explore Golf Pilates and the current assessment promotion →
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.
Questions first-timers ask.
The things most people wonder about before their first Reformer Pilates class.
You can begin without an established exercise routine. Reformer & Tower welcomes beginners, and the instructor adapts the class to your ability. Tell us before booking if you have particular needs.
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.
You do not need experience to start with Reformer & Tower. Your instructor explains the equipment and guides the exercises. If you prefer individual attention, ask us about a private session.
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.