Pilates for Strength and Ease: Your Guide to Reformer Classes
Reformer Pilates is a low-impact, full-body workout on a sliding machine with springs for resistance. It builds core strength, posture, and control without pounding your joints. At Kee Health in Waunakee, small coached classes add red light therapy to each session. Beginners are welcome, and you can book group, private, or duet sessions on Momence.
Pilates can look intimidating from the outside. The machines have straps, springs, and a moving platform. But most people find their first class calmer and more doable than they expected. Here is what to know before you go.
What a reformer class feels like
A reformer is a padded platform, called the carriage, that slides along a frame. Springs underneath set the resistance. You push or pull against them with your legs or arms, using a footbar and straps.
- Slow and controlled. Moves are done with care, not speed. Muscles you did not know you had will wake up.
- Low impact. No jumping or running. Many moves are done lying down or kneeling, which is easier on knees and backs.
- Coached the whole time. Our instructors cue each move step by step and explain what is happening in your body and why.
- Adjusted for you. Every exercise has easier and harder versions, so you feel successful at any level.
At Kee Health, red light therapy is built into the session, so you train and recover in the same class. Afterward, you can cool down with a chilled eucalyptus towel and a complimentary latte or coffee from our piLATTEs espresso bar.
Who reformer Pilates helps
- Beginners. It is completely fine if you have never seen a reformer. Everyone starts somewhere.
- People with stiff backs or poor posture. Classes focus on spinal stability and mobility and core activation that actually works.
- Women focused on pelvic floor and hormone health. Classes include pelvic floor strength and coordination and hormone-supportive movement.
- Anyone who wants lasting strength. The goal is long-term strength, not quick burnout.
- People finishing care for an injury. Pilates is a good next step after active rehabilitation to keep building strength.
Clients often tell us they notice better posture, a stronger core, and more confidence in their body. Everyone's progress is different.
If you have pain right now, get it checked first. Our chiropractic team can help you decide when you are ready for class.
How to get started in Waunakee
Pick a format
- Group: a small coached class with reformer and red light.
- Private: one-on-one, built around your goals.
- Duet: you plus one other person.
Book on Momence
- All classes are booked ahead online.
- You can book up to 49 days out. Classes often fill, so book early.
- Early morning, evening, and weekend times are offered.
Arrive early
- Come 5 to 10 minutes before class to check in and settle in.
- Everyone needs to do the warm-up.
Tell your instructor
- Share any injuries, pain, or health conditions before class.
- Your instructor will show you easier or harder versions as you go.
Need to cancel? Do it in the Momence app or website at least 12 hours before class. Please read the full studio policies before you book. Pilates at Kee Health is HSA and FSA eligible.
How Kee Health helps you move with strength and ease
Our Pilates is clinically guided. It sits alongside the rest of our care, so movement, recovery, and treatment work together.
- Reformer Pilates with integrated red light therapy, in group, private, and duet formats
- Women's health for hormone and metabolic support through perimenopause and menopause
- Active rehabilitation to rebuild strength after an injury
Classes are at our Waunakee studio, serving Madison, DeForest, Sun Prairie, and Middleton.
Book a class on Momence→Frequently asked questions
Do I need Pilates experience to take a reformer class?
No. Beginners are welcome. Instructors cue each move step by step and show easier and harder versions, so you can start even if you have never used a reformer.
What is red light reformer Pilates?
It is a reformer Pilates class with red light therapy built into the session. At Kee Health, you get coached reformer work and red light in the same class.
Can I use my HSA or FSA for Pilates?
Yes. Pilates at Kee Health is HSA and FSA eligible.
How do I book or cancel a Pilates class?
Book on Momence, up to 49 days in advance. To cancel without a penalty, cancel in the Momence app or website at least 12 hours before class.
This article is for general education and is not medical advice. Check with a qualified health care provider before starting a new exercise program, especially if you are pregnant, recovering from an injury, or have a health condition.