What sparked the idea for a Reformer program?

Summer Bradley: Pilates has been around for decades and has really established itself as a credible and effective way to strengthen your body. That's one reason it's experiencing such strong growth right now. Pilates classes have become some of the most-booked workouts in the world. We’re seeing it with our existing LES MILLS PILATES™ mat workouts – they’re hugely popular, with thousands of people doing them every week.
The Reformer is one of the most iconic pieces of Pilates equipment, but traditionally you need to visit a specialist boutique studio to experience it. By creating LES MILLS REFORMER™, we're making it easier for gyms to offer a consistently high-quality Reformer experience, so more people can access and enjoy the benefits.

What can you expect in a LES MILLS REFORMER class?

SB: LES MILLS REFORMER is a 45-minute workout that blends traditional Reformer Pilates movements and more contemporary exercises, all choreographed to the music. There are four distinct training blocks.
We begin with the Foundation Series, which is designed to warm the body. From there, we move into the Front Series, which focuses on anterior strength, delivering a deep core burn. The Back Series targets the posterior chain – think glutes and back. Finally, there’s a Stretch Series. Upper body and lower body are integrated within the Series. The result is a balanced, well-rounded full-body workout.
And yes, you'll feel the burn. In every movement, the goal is to help you connect with the muscle groups you're working almost immediately, then stay there long enough to create real strength and stability benefits.

There are so many modifications, so whether you're completely new to Reformer Pilates or have years of experience, you'll feel supported and confident from your very first class.

What are the benefits of LES MILLS REFORMER?

SB: LES MILLS REFORMER is a low-impact way to improve strength, stability, and alignment. There's always a strong focus on the core and glutes, but it is truly full-body strengthening. It also helps develop proprioception, body awareness, and the mind-body connection Pilates is known for.

Reformer workouts are an ideal complement to other forms of training. Many athletes use Reformer to improve movement quality, control, and stability, plus it's widely used in rehabilitation because it's both gentle on the body and highly effective.

I love how it’s both strengthening and restorative, so you leave every class feeling strong, energized, and uplifted.

What makes LES MILLS REFORMER unique?

SB: The biggest difference is the music. Most traditional Reformer classes use music in the background. In LES MILLS REFORMER, every movement is set to the beat. There's a unique energy that comes from moving in sync to an incredible playlist – and sharing the experience with others. You're on your own Reformer, focused on your own workout, but thanks to the music, the vibes are high, and you can feed off the collective energy in the room.

Tell us about the music

SB: You can expect familiar sounds with a fresh twist, from low-key cool tunes to uplifting popular hits. All the choreography is inspired by the music, so the workout has a strong sense of rhythm and flow. It feels like you're being carried through a musical journey, with moments of high vibey energy balanced by tracks that are more mindful and grounding.
The soundtrack helps bring you into the movement and makes it easier to find your flow state.

Some say the music makes the workout go faster. Is that true?

SB: Absolutely. One of the most common comments we hear is: “Wow, that went fast”. And I know exactly what people mean. You get swept up in the journey. The music guides the equipment transitions and the flow of the class. Mixing Reformer Pilates with vibey music makes working hard feel enjoyable. You're fully present, fully moving, and often surprised by how quickly the time passes.

What are some other ways LES MILLS REFORMER is unique?

SB: Unlike many Reformer classes where the Instructor walks around the room, LES MILLS REFORMER Instructors lead most of the workout from a Reformer machine at the front of the class.
They do the workout with you, making it easier to follow and learn. We've found that people learn best when they can see the movement clearly and then replicate it. By demonstrating exceptional technique throughout the workout, Instructors help participants feel confident and supported, especially if they're new to Reformer.

Another key difference is the consistency of the programming. Every LES MILLS REFORMER class is designed as a complete full-body workout. The sequencing is carefully crafted to be safe, effective, balanced, and enjoyable. Every class is expertly programmed to ensure you're working the whole body and progressing through the class in a purposeful way. So whenever you go to a Les Mills Reformer class, no matter where it is in the world, you’re getting a consistent workout experience every time.

What's the main difference from Mat Pilates?

SB: The biggest difference is the machine itself. The Reformer bed supports the body while also creating resistance, allowing you to perform movements that simply aren't possible on a mat.
You're essentially working against load throughout the workout, which creates a unique strength-training effect while maintaining the low-impact nature of Pilates. And the way the machine works provides you with constant feedback, so you can focus on moving with precision, control, and alignment.
There's also an element of fun. People love moving on the machine, working with the straps, and exploring different movement patterns. The Reformer can also be a powerful tool for improving mobility because it encourages active stretching and control, rather than passive flexibility.

Tell us about the testing and development behind LES MILLS REFORMER

SB: LES MILLS REFORMER has been many, many months in the making. I drew on my years of Pilates experience and worked closely with our technical support team and creative directors to develop the programming. From there, existing Les Mills New Zealand Instructors tested the workouts before we began trialling them across multiple clubs around the world. Through ongoing testing, feedback, refinement, and enhancements, we've landed on a workout we're incredibly proud of.

What have the trials revealed about who will love the workout?

SB: The trials have shown that LES MILLS REFORMER makes Reformer Pilates much more accessible to a much wider audience! We’ve seen many participants stepping onto a Reformer for the very first time and finding the experience welcoming, enjoyable, and easy to follow. The structure, coaching, and music help create confidence from day one.
At the same time, experienced Reformer enthusiasts love it too. The music creates an incredible atmosphere, and there are plenty of opportunities to increase resistance and challenge yourself as your strength and skill develop.

What would you say to someone considering giving it a go?

SB: Go for it. LES MILLS REFORMER is genuinely beginner-friendly, and you don't need any prior experience. We've seen countless people walk into class having never touched a Reformer before and leave feeling successful and empowered.

You're in control of the resistance and the intensity, which means you can tailor the workout to suit your own fitness level and goals. Instructors also offer plenty of options and modifications throughout the class.
Whether you're a dedicated Pilates enthusiast or a complete newcomer, you'll find a way to make the workout work for you.

And perhaps most importantly, it's always a vibe. The music keeps you engaged, motivated, and energized – the moments of hard effort and muscle burn become moments of enjoyment.

Find a LES MILLS REFORMER class near you.

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Who can train to be a LES MILLS REFORMER Instructor?

SB: If you're passionate about Pilates and excited by the Reformer experience, teaching LES MILLS REFORMER could be a great fit. You don't need a pre-existing Reformer qualification. Les Mills training is world-class and provides everything you need to deliver consistently outstanding classes with confidence. The programming, sequencing, and playlists are all created for you, allowing you to focus on what matters most: bringing your authentic self, your coaching skills, and your energy to every class. Another benefit is that the workout itself is low-impact and restorative – so the more you teach, the more you're looking after your own body… while helping others do the same.
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Find out about LES MILLS REFORMER Instructor Training.

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