White horizontal banner with a thin black line across the middle.

Pilates for Everyone

Pilates 101

The Beginner’s Guide to Authentic Reformer Pilates

Starting Your Journey:
What to Expect in Your First Pilates Class

IIf you’ve never stepped into a Pilates studio before, the rows of Reformer machines—with their springs, straps, and sliding carriages- it’s all a bit intimidating. At Pilates For Everyone, we specialize in making Pilates accessible for EVERYONE.


Whether you are looking to relieve chronic back pain, increase your flexibility, or build a stronger core, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about starting Pilates in Sandy, Utah.


1. What is Reformer Pilates?

Unlike mat-based Pilates, which uses your own body weight for resistance, Reformer Pilates utilizes a specialized machine called a Reformer.


The Reformer consists of a sliding carriage connected to a set of springs. These springs provide varying levels of resistance, allowing us to both challenge and support your body. At PFE, we teach actual Pilates—not "Pilates-adjacent" fitness routines. We design every class to build core strength while challenging and strengthening your entire body. We have classical instructors and modern instructors, and everything in between: jumpboard, bosu, bands, handweights, etc...



2. The "520-Hour" Standard: Why Your Trainer Matters

In the Salt Lake City area, many franchises offer their own "in-house" training that isn't recognized nationally. At Pilates for Everyone, we hold ourselves to a higher standard.


Every one of our instructors is certified through Balanced Body, the industry gold standard. This certification requires:

  • Over 180 hours of classroom instruction.
  • 150+ hours of personal practice.
  • 100+ hours of observation.
  • Deep knowledge of anatomy and kinesiology.


Why this matters for you: A franchise instructor might teach a "scripted" routine. Our trainers have the expertise to modify a single exercise five different ways for eight different people simultaneously. Whether you have a specific injury or a unique fitness goal, we tailor your workouts to fit your unique body.


3. No "Levels," No Limits

 Each class is integrated and has exercise options from levels 1 - 4, with trained instructors guiding you safely between moves. All classes are simple enough for beginners and yet challenging enough even for the most advanced. Unlike other studios that require you to "test out" beginner levels to progress, PFE believes in Mixed-Level Mastery. We find that when we don't level our classes, our clients build confidence and advance safely and quickly. Our instructors are skilled enough to challenge an advanced student and support a total beginner using different variations of the same exercise simultaneously. You will never be frustrated or bored by a repetitive routine here.


4. Your First 50 Minutes: A Step-by-Step Walkthrough

Walking into a new studio can be nerve-wracking. Here is exactly how your first visit to our Sandy studio will go:

  • Arrival: Arrive a few minutes early. We’ll give you a tour of our inclusive, welcoming studio.
  • The Orientation: Your trainer will show you how to safely navigate the Reformer and how to use the different spring tensions to support your body.
  • The Experience: Expect a comprehensive, engaging workout. You’ll leave with your muscles challenged—the "PFE Burn" is real!
  • The Cool Down: We finish with stretches that leave you feeling energized and powerful.


5. Beginner FAQ

  • What should I wear?
    Wear comfortable athletic clothes. We do     NOT require grip socks. If you prefer using them, we have them available for purchase in the studio for $10. 
  • I have an old injury. Can I still do this
    Yes. Our trainers are familiar with 90% of the injuries that come through our door. Because we are Balanced Body certified, we can pivot to an entirely different exercise in seconds if something doesn't feel safe for you.
  • Do you offer a free class?
    We don't offer free classes because we value the accountability of our community and the time of our expert instructors. Alternatively, we offer a     $40 Unlimited Week so you can experience all our different instructor styles and find the "vibe" that fits you best.


6. How to Start: Choose Your Path

  • The Curious Beginner:
    Try our $40 Unlimited Week. It’s the best way to see all our instructors and styles.
  • The Committed Beginner:
    Join our $150 Monthly Unlimited for the best value and fastest results.
  • The Private Intro Path:
    If you have concerns about jumping directly into a group class, book our $99 Private Assessment (3 30-minute sessions) so we can give you a dedicated 1-on-1 evaluation before you join a group class.