A Realistic Review of Pilates Reformer-Inspired Studios (From a Busy 40-something Woman Who’s Just Trying to Feel Good in Her Body)
There’s a very specific kind of bravery required to walk into a Pilates studio for the first time.
Not the dramatic kind. The everyday kind.
The kind where you’re like: I hope I’m in the right place. I hope I’m wearing the right thing. I hope I don’t accidentally set a spring flying across the room. 
If you’re Pilates Reformer-curious (or you’ve been going for a while and want to mix it up), here are three popular options – two classic-leaning, one “Pilates-adjacent”- with the honest pros/cons and what they’re best for.
Quick note: I’m reviewing these through the lens of real life: convenience, vibe, instruction quality, and how you feel when you leave.
What I’m Looking For in a Pilates Reformer Studio
Everyone’s “perfect Pilates” is different, but here’s my personal checklist:
- Clear instruction I don’t want to guess what I’m doing
- Form-focused coaching because I’m still learning and definitely not trying to injure myself in the name of “core”
- A workout that meets me where I am some days I’m strong, some days I’m… present
- Schedule + location that makes consistency possible
- A vibe that doesn’t make me feel like I’m being judged
1) Club Pilates (Best for convenience + consistency)
The vibe
Club Pilates is the definition of “there’s probably one near you.” It’s a major national brand and widely available – which matters when you’re trying to make Pilates a habit instead of a special occasion. They do turn the lights down to the blue hue you see above, but it's for ambience, not pressure (like [solidcore]!)
How many locations?
Club Pilates says it has 1,300+ studios globally.
What style of Pilates is it?
Club Pilates is rooted in reformer-based Pilates, but modernized for group classes and supported with additional equipment like TRX, Exo-Chair, Bosu, mats, rollers, and more.
Best for
- People who want a predictable class menu and consistent scheduling
- Anyone who needs a studio close to home/work to stay consistent
- Beginners who want a structured “levels” approach
Heads up
Because it’s a large franchise network, the experience can vary from studio to studio and instructor to instructor. If you find an instructor you like, stick with them!
My experience
Personally, I attend Club Pilates classes more than any other studio classes because there’s one located directly in my apartment building. So it’s convenience that wins out. However, it’s not my favorite. Sometimes I want classic Pilates without having to jump off and on the reformer to play with the other gadgets. I did try my first jump board/cardio class here and absolutely loved it. So it's worth a try if you're into convenience and variety.
Who I’d recommend it to: If it’s convenient for you, and you get bored easily with classic Pilates classes, Club Pilates might be for you.
2) Local or Boutique Pilates Reformer Studio (Best for classic Pilates + community options)
If you love Pilates that feels more studio Pilates – the kind that’s detail-oriented and technique-forward – find yourself a local studio! Mine is East River Pilates in Brooklyn, NY, so I'll be reviewing them below.
The vibe
Boutique, Brooklyn, form-focused. It feels like a place where people actually care how you move – not just how hard you sweat.
What style of Pilates is it?
East River Pilates offers mat Pilates that’s grounded in technique, anatomy, and controlled movement (with props and progressions), plus a range of reformer classes spanning contemporary Pilates styles (including strength-focused and cardio options). They offer beginner and prenatal-friendly classes, as well as a ton of all-level classes that cater to all.
Private sessions + equipment
You can book privates/duets/trios, which is perfect if you want a more personalized experience (or you’re working through an injury or specific goals). This is also a great option if you’re new to Pilates, and exactly how I started to build up confidence and technique.
Community classes (discounted)
Many local Pilates studios offer community classes at discounted pricing (which I love, because Pilates can add up fast).
Best for
- People who want a more traditional/classical-feeling Pilates environment
- Anyone who loves details, form, and teacher feedback
- Brooklyn locals who want both quality and occasional budget-friendly options
My experience:
Local studios are my favorite style of Pilates studio. I've started to look up local spots when traveling to try them out, and I've had similar welcoming, inclusive experiences at all of them. I love a full 50 minutes on the reformer – it helps to get into a flow and feel the mind-body connection without distraction.
Who I’d recommend it to:
- Beginners to advanced Pilates girls
- Anyone who loves the idea of getting used to the reformer
Pro tip: If you're new or nervous, try out a private or rope some friends in to do a duet or trio class to help you get acquainted with the Pilates reformer.
3) [solidcore] (Best for strength + “I want to shake” days)
Let’s be clear: [solidcore] isn’t the same as Pilates. It’s Pilates-inspired, strength-driven, and built around slow, controlled resistance work that will absolutely humble you.
The vibe
Dark room, loud music, high energy, “you will tremble, and you will survive.”
How many locations?
As of a major deal announcement, [solidcore] reported ~130 locations across 25 states + Washington, D.C, and they're still growing.
What style is it?
[solidcore] uses a custom machine (often compared to a “megaformer”- style experience) with an emphasis on strength and time under tension rather than classical Pilates sequencing.
Why does it work well with classic Pilates
I actually love [solidcore] as a complement to classic Pilates:
- Classic Pilates helps with mobility, alignment, and deep core control
- [solidcore] leans into strength endurance, glutes/legs, and total-body intensity
Together, they’re a potent combo – especially if you’re trying to feel strong and move well.
Best for
- People who want Pilates-adjacent strength training
- Anyone who gets bored easily and likes a “push.”
- Those who love measurable progress (you’ll feel yourself getting stronger)
My take is that [solidcore] is absolutely a fantastic addition to a Pilates routine for all of the above reasons.
My experience
While on vacation and looking for classic Pilates, I accidentally attended a class similar to [solidcore]… and left thinking “WTF was that?”. Turns out, it was the high-intensity workout I was looking for, so when I tried [solidcore] back in NY, I knew what to expect. It's still an excellent idea for anyone new to [solidcore] to take the intro class – it provides essential foundational knowledge before getting into the dark lights / loud music of a regular class.
Who I’d recommend it to:
- Anyone looking to add intense, low-impact strength training to their workout repertoire
- People who love Pilates but are craving something to help them sweat
Quick Cheat Sheet: Which One Should You Try?
- Pick Club Pilates if you want convenience, a wide range of class times, and a reliable routine.
- Pick East River Pilates (or your local studio) if you want boutique energy, classic technique, private sessions, and community-class options.
- Pick [solidcore] if you want strength-focused, Pilates-inspired intensity – and you like a challenge.
Final Thoughts: The Courage to Try Something New
If you’re nervous to try Pilates (or try a new studio), you’re not alone.
The first class is always the hardest – not because of the workout, but because of the newness:
- new movements
- new room
- new machine
- new feeling of being the “new person.”
But here’s the truth: every person in that room had a first class once.
You don’t need to be flexible.
You don’t need the “perfect outfit.”
You don’t need to know what you’re doing.
You need to show up.
Because trying something new – especially something that helps you feel stronger, steadier, and more at home in your body – is always worth being a little nervous for.
Still nervous? Check out our Pilates Beginner Guide here.
