Reformer Pilates Tips: Master Class Planning with Ease
- Stephanie Neal
- Jan 17
- 3 min read
Planning Reformer Pilates classes can sometimes feel overwhelming. Many instructors tell me they spend hours creating their sessions each week. If you’ve ever stared at a blank page, unsure of where to start, you’re not alone!
The good news? You don’t have to spend endless time planning. By using these Reformer Pilates tips—and leveraging tools like a Class Planning App or Reformer Pilates app—you can streamline the process and create classes that flow beautifully and keep your clients coming back for more.
But where do you begin when it feels like there are endless possibilities for exercises and no clear path to follow? This is where having a structured approach, like using Exercise Clusters, can transform your planning process. Rather than piecing together random movements, Exercise Clusters help you focus on intentional class design—targeting specific goals, creating smooth transitions, and addressing your clients' needs in a way that keeps them engaged and progressing week after week.
What Are Exercise Clusters?
Exercise Clusters are small groups of exercises that share a common goal, position, or theme. Incorporating these into your Reformer Pilates class plan can help you:
Save time during class preparation.
Build smooth, engaging transitions.
Teach multi-level classes more effectively.
Using clusters in your sessions also ensures a more cohesive class experience. Instead of randomly selecting exercises, you’ll work with intention, targeting specific goals and progressions for your clients.
How to Create Exercise Clusters for Your Reformer Pilates Classes
Follow these five steps to build your own Exercise Clusters:
Identify the Goal of Your Decide on the focus of the cluster. Are you working on a theme (e.g., balance, strength, or mobility) or targeting a specific muscle group (e.g., core, upper body, or glutes)?
Define the Class Type and Level Think about the type of class you’re planning and the level of your clients. Will it be a beginner-friendly session, a cardio-focused workout, or an all-levels flow?
Choose the Starting Position Select the starting position for your cluster based on its goal. For example, if you’re working on core strength, you might choose a supine position.
Select Your Exercises Pick 3–5 exercises that fit your cluster’s focus. Ensure they flow together by keeping them in the same position with minimal spring changes. For example, a supine cluster might include:
Footwork
Coordination
Short spine
Plan the Flow to Your Next Cluster Think about how you’ll transition from one cluster to the next. Aim for smooth transitions that minimize equipment adjustments and maintain the class’s rhythm.
Why Use a Reformer Pilates App?
While creating Exercise Clusters can save you time, using a Pilates app can take your planning to the next level. A great app provides:
Pre-designed Reformer Pilates class plans.
Inspiration for new exercise combinations and flows.
Progressions and regressions for all levels of clients.
If you’re in Australia or looking for a Pilates app Australian instructors trust, The Pilates HQ App is a must-have. It features over 400 Exercise Clusters for the Reformer, as well as options for Mat and Tower Pilates. With ready-made class plans and ideas to inspire you, it’s perfect for saving time and keeping your classes fresh.
Why Exercise Clusters Are a Game-Changer
Using Exercise Clusters has benefits for both instructors and clients:
For instructors: Save time, create structured classes, and feel confident teaching all levels.
For clients: Enjoy seamless transitions, targeted progressions, and classes that challenge them without feeling overwhelming.
By pairing clusters with a well-organized Reformer Pilates app, you’ll have everything you need to deliver standout classes every week.
Ready to Streamline Your Class Planning?
Don’t let class planning take up all your time. Start using these Reformer Pilates tips today to create engaging, effective sessions for your clients. And if you need extra help, Download my Teacher Toolkit for Reformer Pilates Teachers to help you with your Reformer Pilates Class Plans. OR Sign up to The Pilates HQ App on a 14 Day Free Trial for access to pre-designed Reformer Pilates class plans and exercise ideas.