Ever scroll through Instagram seeing people effortlessly gliding on those mysterious reformer machines and wonder, “Could I actually do that?” You’re not alone. Thousands of East Aucklanders are discovering pilates as their secret weapon for getting stronger and healthier without the intimidation of traditional gyms.
If you’ve been putting off trying pilates because you’re not sure what to expect, think you need to be super flexible, or worry you’ll be the only beginner in the room, this guide is for you. We’ll walk you through everything from what pilates actually is to how to choose your first class in Howick, Botany, and the wider East Auckland area.
What Actually Is Pilates?
Pilates is a low-impact exercise method focused on building core strength, improving flexibility, and creating better body awareness through controlled movements. Created by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, it’s based on six key principles: concentration, control, centre, flow, precision, and breathing.
Unlike high-intensity workouts that leave you exhausted, pilates works by engaging your deeper stabilising muscles—the ones that support your spine and improve your posture. It’s particularly effective for people in Howick and East Auckland who spend long hours sitting at desks.
Key benefits include:
- Building functional strength that translates to daily activities
- Improving posture by strengthening the muscles that hold you upright
- Reducing stress through focused breathing and mindful movement
- Preventing injuries by strengthening your core and improving body awareness
Mat Pilates vs Reformer Pilates
Mat Pilates uses your body weight as resistance, performed on a cushioned mat with small props. It’s accessible but can be challenging for beginners because you’re fighting gravity without assistance.
Reformer pilates uses a specialised machine with springs, straps, and a sliding carriage. The springs provide adjustable resistance that can actually make exercises easier for beginners by supporting your movements, or harder as you progress. Most people in Howick find reformer pilates more beginner-friendly because:
- The machine guides your movements and provides instant feedback on form
- Spring resistance adjusts to match your strength level
- Over 500 possible exercises keep classes interesting
- Lower impact on joints compared to many mat exercises
Who Should Try Pilates?
Pilates is for absolutely everyone, regardless of age, fitness level, gender, or flexibility. If you live in East Auckland and have a body that moves, pilates can help it move better.
Whether you’re a desk worker in East Tamaki, a parent in Ormiston, or staying active in Howick, pilates adapts to your needs. Every exercise can be modified, so your tight hamstrings or previous injuries aren’t reasons to avoid pilates—they’re exactly why you should try it.
Your First Class: What to Expect
Walking into your first pilates class can feel intimidating, but knowing what to expect helps. Most beginner classes follow a similar structure:
- Check in and get shown to your reformer bed
- Your instructor introduces themselves and asks about any injuries
- Gentle warm-up focusing on breathing and spinal movement
- Full-body sequence with clear demonstrations and guidance
- Classes typically run 45-50 minutes
Good instructors encourage you to work at your own pace, take breaks when needed, and focus on fundamentals over keeping up with others.
Common Beginner Worries Addressed
“I’m not flexible enough”: Flexibility is something pilates helps you develop, not something you need before starting. The reformer’s supported positions make it easier to work on flexibility safely.
“I’m not strong enough”: The reformer springs can assist your movements, making exercises accessible even with limited strength. As you build strength, instructors adjust the resistance.
“What if I can’t do an exercise?”: Every exercise has modifications. Your instructor will offer alternatives that work the same muscles differently.
“I’m the wrong size/shape”: The reformer adjusts to accommodate different bodies. Pilates is about how your body functions, not how it looks.
What to Wear and Bring
- Clothing: Fitted leggings or track pants and a fitted top (avoid loose, baggy clothes)
- Grip socks: Essential for hygiene and safety (often included in intro packages)
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout your session
- Hair ties: Secure long hair to prevent it getting caught in equipment
- Leave jewellery at home: Remove anything that might scratch equipment
How Often Should You Practice?
Joseph Pilates said: “In 10 sessions you’ll feel the difference, in 20 sessions you’ll see the difference, and in 30 sessions you’ll have a whole new body.”
For optimal results:
- Weeks 1-4: Two classes per week to allow your body to adapt
- Months 2-3: Three classes per week to build momentum
- Month 4 onwards: Four classes per week for maximum transformation
- Maintenance: One to two classes weekly if complementing other activities
Finding Your Studio in East Auckland
Choose a studio that offers:
- Convenient location, you can visit regularly
- Experienced instructors with recognised qualifications
- Professional-grade equipment
- Small class sizes for individual attention
- A variety of class times fitting your schedule
- Trial offers to test before committing
Your Next Steps
Don’t wait for the “perfect time” when you’re fitter or more flexible—that time never comes. Start where you are, with the body you have right now.
Located in the heart of Howick at 116 Picton Street, Reformer Works specialises in welcoming complete beginners to pilates. With dedicated beginner classes, experienced instructors, 15 Freedom Pilates reformer beds, and classes seven days a week, starting your pilates journey has never been easier.
Visit Reformer Works to see class times, book your first session, and discover why East Auckland residents are choosing reformer pilates as their path to a stronger, healthier body.
