Tried & Tested: Reformer Pilates Reform RX

A few months ago I attended my first reformer Pilates class, which I have been raving about ever since.

To my delight, I was recently invited to try a Pilates reformer from Reform RX, the pioneering company behind this particular model. The Reformer RX is a fully digitalised and self-operated machine with a screen attached, allowing the use complete freedom and control of their training.

I tried Reformer RX in a private gym in a swanky residential building in the City of London.

I was in the studio room by myself, undisturbed, just me and the reformer and Yvette McGaffin, (the CEO and co-founder of Reform RX) on the screen, leading me through a workout with encouragement and positivity.  

There were plenty of options to choose from; from a short beginner class to longer, more advanced classes. And if you have access to the machine on a regular basis you can track your own progress and move up the levels, on your own terms.

Reform RX has recently integrated MyScore on their machines. MyScore is a state-of-the-art heart rate tracking system, which monitors and tracks the user’s heart rate, with an intuitive, colour-changing interface, showing the user’s heart rate data in real-time and indicating their progress, thereby helping them to achieve their goals.

Yvette McGaffin, CEO and co-founder of Reform RX, says: “The launch of MyScore is a defining moment for Reform RX. By continuing to bring cutting-edge innovation to the Pilates world, we can ensure premium performance is more accessible and personal.

With MyScore’s heart rate tracking technology, users can now tailor their workouts more precisely than ever before, maximising results through real-time feedback. By combining smart technology with the fundamentals of Pilates, we’re offering a more immersive and personalised fitness journey. This marks a significant step forward in making high-quality, connected Pilates accessible to everyone, regardless of space or setting.”

If you have never tried a Pilates reformer, it can look a little scary and alien, especially if you are left to your own devices. That’s why having expert guidance is recommended. The springs themselves can take some getting used to. The bed-like structure is made either of metal or wood, with springs attached to provide different levels of resistance.

The reformer works the whole body and when I used it, it felt like every muscle, every part of me was engaged. And on top of that, from my experience, it can be very addictive. And hearing from my friends, with regular use, the results don’t take very long to show. Sadly, the price for classes is still quite high, which can be somewhat unattainable for a lot of people. Here’s hoping that it will change in time.

Reformer Pilates are said to improve overall strength and flexibility, balance, focus, coordination, as well as posture and alignment, and it is said to help lower blood pressure too.

Every time I left a class, I felt lighter in my body and mind, and excuse the pun, with a spring in my step.

• For more information visit https://www.reformrx.co.uk/. The Reformer RX is available in many locations worldwide, including the London Savoy Mandarin https://www.mandarinoriental.com/en/london/mayfair.
• Our writer was invitted to review the Reform RX for the purposes of an honest and accurate review