AORA Studio
Your First Class
Everything you need to know before you arrive.
It's normal to feel nervous
Almost everyone feels a little apprehensive before their first reformer class. The machine looks unfamiliar, you're not sure what to wear, and you might be wondering whether you'll be the only beginner in the room.
At AORA, our classes are designed for mixed levels. Your instructor will offer modifications and progressions throughout, so you work at your own pace. Nobody is watching you. Everyone is focused on their own practice.
The hardest part is walking through the door. After that, we take care of the rest.
What to bring and wear
Clothing. Wear comfortable, fitted clothing that you can move in. Leggings and a fitted top work well. Avoid anything too loose as it can get caught on the reformer springs.
Footwear. Reformer pilates is done in grip socks (socks with non-slip dots on the sole). We sell them at the studio if you don't have a pair.
Water. Bring a water bottle. Our classes are more challenging than they look, and you'll want to stay hydrated.
Arrival. Try to arrive 10 minutes early for your first visit. This gives you time to settle in and ask any questions before class begins.
How the reformer works
The reformer is a sliding carriage on a frame, connected to springs that provide resistance. You'll push, pull and hold positions using your own body weight plus the spring tension.
Your instructor will set the spring weight for each exercise. Heavier springs aren't always harder. Sometimes lighter springs demand more control, which is where the real challenge lies.
You'll work lying down, sitting, kneeling and standing on the reformer throughout a class. Each position targets different muscle groups, creating a full-body workout in 50 minutes.
Don't worry about remembering everything. Your instructor will guide you through each movement. By your second or third class, the movements will start to feel natural.
Flow vs Athletics: which class to book first
At AORA we offer two class styles. For your first session, we recommend starting with Flow.
Aora Flow is our signature reformer class. It's controlled, mindful and suitable for all levels. You'll focus on form, breathing and full-body movement at a pace that lets you learn the basics properly.
Aora Athletics is our higher-intensity option, fusing reformer pilates with strength training. It uses dumbbells and weighted rings alongside the reformer. We recommend attending 2-3 Flow classes before trying Athletics, so you're comfortable with the equipment first.
Both classes are 50 minutes. Both will challenge you. Flow simply gives you a calmer introduction to the reformer. View our schedule to find a class that suits you.
After your first class
You might feel muscles you didn't know you had. That's a good sign. Reformer pilates activates deep stabilising muscles that other forms of exercise often miss.
Mild soreness for a day or two is completely normal, especially in your core, glutes and inner thighs. It fades quickly as your body adapts.
Most people notice a difference in how they feel after just 3 classes: better posture, improved body awareness, and a sense of calm focus that carries into the rest of their day.
- Stretch gently after class if you feel tight
- Drink plenty of water for the rest of the day
- Book your next class while the motivation is fresh
- Don't compare yourself to anyone else in the studio
“The best time to start is before you feel ready. That's when it matters most.”
Ready to try it?
Book your first reformer pilates class at our Bristol studio.