Pilates

What makes our reformer pilates different

Most reformer pilates studios in Brisbane run group classes — typically 6 to 12 people on reformers in a single room, all following the instructor through the same sequence. That model works for some people. It’s not what we do.

At Functional Fitness Gym, every reformer pilates session is private and 1-on-1. Just you and your instructor, in our dedicated reformer studio at 1/26 Commercial Road, Newstead. No group, no shared playlist, no following along. Your session is built around your body, your goals, and your starting point.

This means if you’ve never set foot on a reformer before, you’ll get full attention as you learn — properly. If you have an injury or a body part you’re managing, your session adapts. If you’re advanced and want to progress harder, the work scales with you. None of that happens reliably in a group class.

Your instructor — Tina

Reformer pilates sessions at Functional Fitness Gym are run by Tina, our dedicated reformer pilates instructor. Tina takes a calm, patient approach — exactly what most newcomers to reformer want. She’ll talk you through every movement, correct your form in real time, and adjust the spring resistance and tempo to match what your body needs that day.

Because every session is 1-on-1 with Tina, there’s no awkward “trying to keep up with everyone else” experience. The session moves at your pace, not the room’s pace.

What a 30-minute private reformer pilates session looks like

Sessions are 30 minutes long — short enough to fit before work, during a lunch break, or after work without taking over your day, but long enough to do meaningful work on the reformer. Here’s what to expect:

• Quick check-in (1–2 minutes) — Tina asks how your body’s feeling that day, anything that’s tight, sore, or that you want to work on
• Warm-up on the reformer (5 minutes) — gentle activation work to wake up the right muscles
• Strength and stability work (15–18 minutes) — your main session, programmed around your goals (whether that’s building core strength, improving posture, mobility, or general toning)
• Stretch and release (5 minutes) — bring the heart rate down, lengthen what you just worked
• Quick wrap-up (1–2 minutes) — brief chat about how that felt and what to focus on next session

You don’t need any pilates experience. Wear comfortable activewear, bring water and grippy socks (or buy a pair from us if you forget). The studio has everything else.

Private 1-on-1 vs group reformer pilates — what’s the difference?

If you’ve only done group reformer classes (or you’re considering KX, Studio Pilates, Power Moves, Pronto, or any of the chain reformer studios in Newstead), here’s the genuine difference:

Group classes are cheaper per session — that’s the trade-off. If the group format genuinely works for you, the bigger studios do it well. Our model is built for people who’d rather pay more for genuine 1-on-1 attention and faster progress.

Pricing

$80 per 30-minute private reformer pilates session, with Tina as your dedicated instructor. There are no joining fees, no studio membership required, and no minimum number of sessions to commit to. Pay per session, book what suits your schedule.

If you’d like to train regularly, get in touch and we can discuss flexible booking arrangements that work around your week.

Frequently asked questions about private reformer pilates in Newstead

I’ve never done pilates before — is it suitable for complete beginners?

Absolutely. Private 1-on-1 reformer is actually the best way to start. You’ll learn proper form from the first session without trying to keep up with a room of more experienced people. Tina builds your first few sessions around the fundamentals, then progresses from there.

What’s the difference between reformer pilates and mat pilates?

Mat pilates uses your bodyweight on a mat. Reformer pilates uses a specialised machine with a sliding carriage and adjustable spring resistance, which lets you work strength, mobility and stability in ways mat pilates can’t. The reformer is generally more effective for building strength, easier on the joints, and faster to see results — particularly for people with back, knee, or shoulder issues.

Will reformer pilates help with back pain?

Reformer pilates is one of the most effective exercise tools for back pain because it builds deep core strength, improves spinal mobility, and corrects postural imbalances — all without high-impact loading. If you have a specific back issue, mention it when you book and Tina will adapt the session. We’re not a substitute for medical advice, so if your pain is severe or new, see a physio first.

How often should I do reformer pilates to see results?

Most people start to feel a difference in posture and core control within 4–6 sessions if they train once a week. Twice a week is the sweet spot for visible strength and tone changes within 8–12 weeks. Even one session a week consistently builds noticeable improvements over time.

What should I wear to a reformer pilates session?

Comfortable activewear that lets you move — leggings or shorts and a fitted top works well. You’ll need grippy socks (the kind with rubber dots on the sole) for safety on the reformer. If you don’t own a pair, we sell them at the studio.

Can I do reformer pilates if I’m pregnant?

Reformer pilates is often recommended during pregnancy because it’s low-impact and great for posture, core support, and pelvic floor work. That said, you should clear it with your obstetrician or midwife first, and let Tina know your trimester so the session is adapted appropriately.

How is private reformer pilates different from a personal training session?

Both are 1-on-1, both are tailored to you. The difference is the equipment and the focus. PT sessions in our gym typically use weights, machines and bodyweight to build general strength and conditioning. Reformer pilates focuses specifically on core strength, posture, mobility and controlled, low-impact muscle work using the reformer machine. Many of our members do both — PT for strength, reformer for control and recovery.

How do I book a session?

The easiest way is to contact us. Let us know what days and times suit you and we’ll match you with Tina’s availability.

Ready to try a private reformer pilates session in Newstead?

If you’ve been curious about reformer pilates but the idea of a crowded group class doesn’t appeal — or you’ve tried group classes and found they didn’t give you the attention you needed — try a 1-on-1 session with Tina. Get in touch to book your first session. No commitment beyond that one booking.