The Reformer Pilates Boom - And What You Need to Know

Recently, I came across an article in The Guardian discussing the rapid rise of reformer Pilates and the increase in related injuries.

When I first read it, it reinforced what I’ve been seeing here in Christchurch, that the rapid growth of reformer Pilates is part of a much bigger global trend.

More studios are opening. More people are being introduced to reformer Pilates. And on the surface, that feels like a positive step forward. But alongside that growth, there are some important conversations starting to emerge.

I moved to Christchurch from Sydney in early 2015.

When you move countries, there are a few things you look for to make a new place feel like home, a good hairdresser, a favourite walking route, a local café or restaurant. For me, right at the top of that list was reformer Pilates.

In Sydney, group reformer studios were everywhere. It was part of my routine, not just for movement, but for my mental wellbeing as well.

When I arrived in Christchurch, I was surprised to find that I couldn’t find anywhere offering group reformer classes. I had actually brought two reformers over with me from Sydney, but I didn’t want to practise at home. I wanted connection, I wanted community, and I couldn’t find it.

So I made the decision then and there that I would create it.

In 2017, once my son was one and in daycare, I opened Balance Pilates Cashmere.

Not long after, several other studios opened as well. At the time, it felt like a really positive shift, Pilates was growing, and more people would have access to it. And many of those early studios were led by well-trained, passionate teachers.

Fast forward to now, and the landscape looks quite different.

The growth has been rapid, and with that, the experience of Pilates can vary widely from one studio to another.

For many people, their first experience of Pilates is now in a group reformer class, often without any prior introduction to the method. They walk into a class, are given little context, and are expected to follow along on equipment they’ve never used before.

Sometimes it’s fast-paced. Sometimes it’s confusing. And sometimes, it simply doesn’t feel like Pilates at all.

I remember attending a class myself a few years ago with another teacher. It was described as Pilates, but there was no recognisable Pilates repertoire being taught.

At one point, the woman next to me had stopped altogether. She looked disheartened and completely lost. I remember thinking how easy it would be for her to walk away believing Pilates just wasn’t for her.

That moment has stayed with me.

Because it’s not that Pilates doesn’t work, it’s that she hadn’t been given the opportunity to experience it properly.

Pilates Is a Method, Not Just a Workout

Pilates has a foundation, a structure, and a progression. It is designed to build strength, control, awareness, and alignment over time.

Without that foundation, it can feel overwhelming or inaccessible. And when the body isn’t supported correctly, it will often compensate, which is where discomfort or injury can occur.

This is something we are seeing more often now.

At Balance Pilates, we take a different approach. Every client begins with a One-on-One Initial Introduction, where we introduce the foundations, principles, and basic repertoire of Pilates. We also take the time to understand the individual body in front of us, including any past or current injuries.

This ensures that when you join a group class, you do so with confidence and understanding, not confusion. It creates a safer, more effective, and far more rewarding experience from the very beginning.

The Role of the Teacher

One of the biggest differences in Pilates comes down to the teacher.

Understanding anatomy, injury, progression, and how to adapt for the individual in front of you, takes time and experience.

It also requires presence. Pilates is not something that can be effectively taught by simply following a screen or copying movements. Many people don’t yet have the body awareness to know if they are moving well or not. That awareness is developed through guidance, feedback, and often hands-on cueing.

This is where good teaching makes all the difference.

Not All Pilates Is the Same

There is a wide spectrum when it comes to Pilates. Some classes are fast paced and choreography driven, while others focus on precision, control, and individual movement.

There is space for variation and evolution, but safety, understanding, and good guidance should always remain at the core.

I still believe the growth of Pilates is a positive thing. More people moving, building strength, and supporting their bodies is always something to celebrate. But as with any rapidly growing industry, it’s important to stay informed.

Because the right introduction to Pilates can change how you move for life.

If you’re unsure where to start, or want to experience Pilates in a way that builds confidence and understanding from the ground up, get in touch and we will guide you.