Pilates classes
Reformer Pilates classes in Sittingbourne
Try Reformer and equipment Pilates in a small class of no more than four people at RevitaliseU-Kent in Sittingbourne.
Our Pilates studio includes two Reformers, a Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Ladder Barrel, BOSU and a range of smaller equipment.
Rather than spending an entire session on one machine, classes can introduce you to different pieces of Pilates apparatus.
- The Oast, Sittingbourne
- Maximum 4 per class
- Beginners welcome
The method
What is Reformer Pilates?
A Pilates Reformer uses a moving carriage, springs, straps and a footbar to provide different levels of resistance and support.
Spring resistance can be changed according to the exercise and the person using the machine.
This means Reformer exercises can range from controlled introductory movements to demanding strength and stability work.
The Reformer is only one part of equipment-based Pilates at RevitaliseU-Kent.
The studio
A fully equipped Pilates studio
Laura's Sittingbourne studio includes a full range of traditional Pilates apparatus, so classes are never limited to a single machine.
During equipment classes, Laura can use different apparatus depending on the exercises planned for that session. RevitaliseU-Kent currently limits these classes to four participants.
What's in the studio
- 2 Pilates Reformers
- Cadillac
- Wunda Chair
- Ladder Barrel
- BOSU
- Free weights
- Resistance bands
- Ova balls
- Pilates magic circles
Which is right for you?
Reformer Pilates versus Mat Pilates
Both forms follow the same underlying Pilates principles. The main difference is how resistance and support are provided.
Mat Pilates
Relies heavily on your own body weight, gravity and small equipment.
Reformer Pilates
Introduces spring resistance and a moving carriage. Other apparatus introduces further movement possibilities.
Neither is automatically “better”. Some movements feel harder on a Reformer. Others can feel more supported because the equipment helps guide your movement. Many people benefit from doing both.
The evidence
The benefits of Reformer Pilates
Research specifically separating Reformer Pilates from other forms of Pilates is less extensive than research into Pilates overall.
However, studies support its use as a form of strength and muscular endurance exercise.
A 2025 randomised controlled trial studying Reformer Pilates three times per week for eight weeks reported improvements in muscle strength and endurance in the group taking part. The study involved overweight and obese women aged 30 to 60, so its findings should not automatically be applied to every population.
That distinction matters. There is good reason to talk about Reformer Pilates as strength and controlled movement exercise, but less reason to attach long lists of supposed medical benefits to it.
Strength
Build strength using spring resistance
Reformer exercises can use spring resistance to challenge your muscles as you push or pull the carriage. The resistance can be changed for different movements.
Some exercises require one part of the body to move while the rest remains stable. That combination of movement and control is a major part of equipment Pilates.
The UK Chief Medical Officers recommend muscle-strengthening activities on at least two days per week for adults.
Exercises may involve your
- Abdominal muscles
- Back
- Glutes and hips
- Legs
- Shoulders
- Arms
Balance & variety
Balance, control and range of exercise
Work on balance and control
Not every balance exercise involves standing on one leg. Controlling a moving Reformer carriage or keeping your trunk stable while your arms or legs move also requires coordination and control.
Pilates research has found positive effects on balance in a number of populations. A systematic review of 39 studies involving older adults reported improvements in balance, strength, flexibility and functional performance following Pilates programmes.
Increase your range of exercise
One reason people enjoy equipment Pilates is the variety. A Reformer can be used lying down, sitting, kneeling or standing. The Cadillac, Chair and Barrel introduce another range of movements.
Laura can therefore use different equipment to work on strength, mobility, balance and coordination within the same class.
The equipment
Two pieces of apparatus up close
What is the Pilates Cadillac?
The Cadillac is a large piece of traditional Pilates equipment with a raised frame, bars, springs and straps.
It allows exercises to be performed in several positions and provides different forms of spring resistance or support. Your class may use the Cadillac for only part of the session.
What is a Wunda Chair?
A Wunda Chair is a compact piece of Pilates apparatus with a spring-loaded pedal.
Despite its size, it can provide demanding exercises for the legs, trunk and upper body. Laura can adjust exercises and resistance according to your experience.
New to equipment Pilates?
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes.
You do not have to complete Mat Pilates before trying Reformer Pilates. RevitaliseU-Kent's equipment classes are suitable for beginners and experienced clients because exercises can be modified.
Never done Pilates before?
If you have never done Pilates before, contact Laura before booking.
An introduction to the equipment and basic Pilates principles can help you feel more confident when joining your class.
Class sizes
Why only four people?
Equipment Pilates classes at RevitaliseU-Kent have a maximum of four participants. This allows Laura to:
- Explain equipment settings
- Check positioning
- Watch technique
- Adjust exercises
- Provide alternatives
- Help new clients learn how the apparatus works
It also means you get more time using the specialist equipment.
Find us
Reformer Pilates in Sittingbourne
Classes take place at one venue in Sittingbourne.
The Oast Business Centre
62 Bell RoadSittingbourne
Kent
ME10 4HE
The location serves Sittingbourne and surrounding areas including Teynham, Newington, Faversham and nearby Kent villages.
Questions
Reformer & equipment Pilates FAQs
Yes, beginners can attend Reformer Pilates because the equipment and resistance can be adjusted to suit different ability levels.
If you have never used a Reformer before, Laura will show you how the equipment works and explain the basic movements before progressing.
Reformer and equipment Pilates classes are limited to a maximum of four people.
The small class size gives Laura more time to check your positioning, help with equipment settings and provide individual guidance during the session.
No, Reformer Pilates classes at RevitaliseU-Kent can also use the Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Ladder Barrel, BOSU and smaller Pilates equipment.
The equipment used will depend on the exercises planned for that class and the experience of the people attending.
You should wear close-fitting, comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely during Reformer Pilates.
Clothing that is too loose can make it harder for Laura to see your alignment and may catch on the equipment. Grip socks may also be useful depending on the exercises being performed.
No, Reformer Pilates is not automatically harder than Mat Pilates because the equipment can provide either resistance or support.
Some Reformer exercises are challenging, while others can make certain movements easier to control. The difficulty depends on the exercise, spring setting and your current ability.
Reformer & equipment Pilates
Ready to try Reformer Pilates?
All classes must be booked before attending.