Why a Reformer Workout Is Great for Core, Pelvic Floor and Posture

If you’re looking to feel stronger, move better, and reconnect with your body (without pushing yourself to the limit), then Reformer Pilates might be your new favourite thing. 

With a clever mix of controlled movement, gentle resistance, and expert guidance, these sessions offer so much more than your average gym routine. They don’t just target one area - they help support your whole body, inside and out. 

Let’s take a closer look at how it all works… 

Flexera Reformers at HLP Therapy

So, What Actually Is a Reformer Workout? 

It’s Pilates...but with a twist.

Instead of just using your body weight and a mat, a reformer workout takes place on a machine (called a reformer) that uses springs, pulleys, and adjustable resistance to guide and challenge your movements.

That means more support when you need it - and more challenge when you’re ready for it.

• Each movement is designed to help:

• Strengthen your deep core

• Improve posture and alignment

• Enhance flexibility and balance

• Build muscle tone without bulk

• Support your pelvic floor and lower back

And because you’re moving with the help of the machine, it’s super joint-friendly and therefore ideal for injury recovery, postnatal women, or anyone who just wants a more mindful way to build strength.

Enjoy a Reformer Workout here at HLP Therapy

How Does It Actually Help?

Let’s break it down.

Core Strength That Goes Beyond Crunches

When people think “core,” they usually think six-pack. But a reformer workout targets the deeper, stabilising muscles that support your spine, hips, and pelvis, thus giving you strength that supports your day-to-day life.

Using resistance and controlled breathing, the reformer helps you:

• Activate those deep abdominal muscles

• Improve coordination between your breath and core engagement

• Build strength in positions that don’t strain your neck or back

It’s why we offer all our sessions as 1:1 or 1:2 - because good technique and the right support are everything.

A Boost for Your Pelvic Floor (Without the Kegels)

Yes, a reformer workout is also fantastic for your pelvic floor - but don’t worry, it’s not just for that!

Still, if you do want to give those muscles a little love (especially postnatally), reformer Pilates provide:

• Supportive positions to avoid pressure

• Slow, guided movements to activate the right muscles

• Breathing techniques that naturally link with pelvic floor engagement

We even offer dedicated 6-week postnatal sessions, designed to help new mums feel strong, supported, and confident again.

Speaking of which, if you’re postnatal and have never had an assessment to check your pelvic floor, tummy gap, posture, strength and C-section scar (if you have one) why not book in for a Full Natal Check (Mummy MOT).

Reformer Workouts are not only for Recovery

You don’t need to be injured, postpartum, or struggling to get something from this type of workout. Many of our clients come to us simply because they want to:

• Feel stronger without lifting weights

• Reduce aches and niggles in their back, hips, or neck

• Improve posture from years of desk work

• Get more flexible (without forcing themselves into yoga poses!)

• Build confidence in how their body moves and feels

And let’s not forget the feel-good factor: there’s something deeply satisfying about a workout that leaves you feeling taller, more open, and relaxed - not exhausted.

A Few Fun Extras We Love…

• We use state-of-the-art Flexera reformers - they’re smooth, beautiful to work on, and feel amazing.

• All instructors are trained physiotherapists with specialist knowledge in women’s health.

• Small, personalised sessions mean you get the attention you need, every single time.

• And yes… occasionally we have way too much fun on the reformers (watch Grace and I on the video below) - don’t worry, you’ll be in safe hands with a fully trained instructor (which clearly we are not)!

Hannah and Grace having fun with Reformers!

Single Sessions & Block Bookings

If you’ve been thinking about finding a gentler way to get strong, flexible, and connected to your body again – reformer Pilates could be exactly what you need.

We have lots of sessions available including single sessions if you just want to try it out, or block bookings of 4, 6 or 10 sessions.

Fancy giving it a try? Head to our booking page.

Whether you're postnatal, perimenopausal, or simply curious about new ways to move, reformer Pilates workouts offer a gentle yet powerful approach to building strength from the inside out.