What is reformer Pilates?

Elevate your workout

Reformer Pilates is a full body workout that utilizes a specialized piece of equipment called a reformer to improve strength, flexibility, balance and coordination.

The origins of Pilates dates back to WWI when Joseph Pilates experimented with resistance-based exercises (known as ‘Contrology’) during an internment camp. He attached springs to a bed to help patients move without standing up. His original prototype has since evolved into the dynamic and modern reformer machines that you see in studios and gyms today.

The machine itself is a lot less intimidating than it looks, is super user and beginner friendly and all of our instructors are trained to go through an orientation of the reformer machine with all of our first-timers.

Fortides’ reformer machines

Where Quality Meets Aestheticre

Canadian-made

We use the Merrithew V2 Max Machines which are made in Canada for the utmost durability, precision and quality.

Our machines are some of the highest quality machines that you can find on the market. This translates into a smooth, safe and effective workout every time.

Designed for optimal peformance

No two classes will ever be the same. The movements & sequences on this reformer are endless ensuring that you’re always being challenged and working new muscle groups.

Built for versatility

The MANY Benefits of Reformer Pilates

Reformer Pilates in Toronto isn’t just growing—it’s thriving. And there’s a reason: those who practice it consistently don’t just hear about the benefits; they see and feel them, every single day.

  • Reformer Pilates emphasizes controlled movements that promote flexibility and strength. It’s a form of exercise that focuses on time under tension and elongates muscles to increase muscle strength, tone and more.

  • The reformer machine utilizes springs to provide varying levels of resistance and expertly targets both small and large muscle groups. Your muscles will get stronger, leaner and more toned in the process.

  • Pilates is a natural mood-booster. Because of its focus on deep, controlled breathing it helps you stay focused on your practice. And, Pilates stimulates the release of positive endorphins. What’s not to love?

  • Pilates emphasizes and engages the deep abdominal muscles and engagement of these muscles is crucial in every Pilates practice. Regular practitioners will notice their core getting much stronger. Pilates also increases body awareness, allowing you to better understand and control your pelvic floor muscles.

  • Pilates is known for its ability to enhance the mind-body connection through increased body awareness, mindful movement, breath control and focus and concentration.

Common myths about reformer Pilates

Pilates is just for women

False! Pilates is renowned for its core-strengthening benefits which if proven to help all athletic performance, regardless of gender. Pilates also offers a wide range of benefits including improved mobility, injury prevention, increased strength, and enhanced overall fitness. It's a valuable addition to anyone’s fitness routine, regardless of their athletic goals.

Pilates is the same as yoga

False! Although Pilates and Yoga have some similarities because they are low impact and emphasize the mind-body connection, yoga is always done on a mat whereas Pilates can be done on a mat or a reformer machine. Pilates focuses on deep core engagement, mobility and stability whereas Yoga is great for flexibility.

Reformer Pilates is a fast-track to 6 pack abs

This one’s only half true ;) Pilates does engage the deep core muscles and not only do these deep core muscles work like a corset to draw your waist in and give you a flat stomach, they’re the most important muscles for reducing most back pain and other postural complaints. However, we recommend that you do Pilates 3-4 times per week depending on the results that you are looking to achieve - consistency is key!

Pilates is easy

False! Although Pilates can be perceived as gentle, it’s is an exercise that will challenge your entire body because it demands core strength, precision, and control. While modifications are available, the focus on proper form and efficient movement requires dedication and consistent practice. Additionally, reformer Pilates will up-level a basic mat Pilates practice because the machine challenges your balance and offers additional resistance.

Reformer Pilates is for more advanced practitioners

False! Reformer Pilates is meant to be accessible to a wide-range of audiences, including beginners. The key reasons for this are that: 1) the reformer allows you to modify the resistance levels during class, 2) our instructors will always offer modifications to suit various skill levels, 3) reformer Pilates is low-impact and therefore, is great for joints. If you’re new to reformer Pilates we recommend that you jump into our Foundations class to start which is a slower paced class aimed at mastering Pilates fundamentals.

Pilates is just a fad

We definitely don’t think so! Pilates has been around since the 1920’s and is only gaining in popularity because of its holistic approach, accessibility to a wide-audience, the general movement towards low-impact forms of exercise and proven results.

“In 10 sessions you will feel the difference, in 20 you will see the difference, and in 30 you'll have a whole new body.”

— Joseph Pilates