The History of Reformer Pilates
Reformer Pilates is having a major moment right now, but like all great things, it has a fascinating origin story that spans decades.
At Strong + Bendy, we love connecting the dots between where movement practices come from and how they’ve evolved into the game-changers they are today. So, whether you’re a seasoned Pilates pro or just getting started, here’s everything you need to know about the history of Reformer Pilates: from its beginnings to its modern-day glow-up.
The origins: who was Joseph Pilates?
First things first: meet Joseph Pilates, the OG fitness innovator and the mastermind behind it all. Born in Germany in 1883, Joseph was a man ahead of his time. As a child, he struggled with health issues like asthma, rickets, and rheumatic fever, but not wanting to let challenges hold him back he became obsessed with improving his physical health. He dove into studying anatomy, yoga, gymnastics, martial arts, and even animal movement.
Fast-forward to World War I, Joseph found himself interned in England as an enemy alien. Always the problem-solver, he began creating fitness routines to keep himself and his fellow detainees in shape. This is where the magic truly started. Using bed frames, springs, and whatever else he could find, Joseph developed resistance-based exercises that became the foundation for what we now know as the Reformer. (Yes, the Reformer basically started as a souped-up hospital bed!)
The birth of "Contrology"
When the war ended, Joseph returned to Germany, where his reputation as a movement expert grew. He eventually left for New York City in 1926, where he opened his first Pilates studio alongside his wife, Clara. It was here that he coined the term “Contrology” to describe his method, which focused on controlling the body through the mind.
The Pilates method, as it came to be known, attracted a diverse crowd: dancers, athletes, and anyone looking to rehabilitate injuries or improve their physical performance. The Reformer became a centrepiece of his studio, offering a dynamic and supportive way to strengthen the body while improving alignment and flexibility.
Reformer Pilates in the spotlight
Over the years, Joseph’s work gained a loyal following, but it wasn’t until after his death in 1967 that Pilates began to reach a wider audience. His original students, sometimes referred to as the “Pilates Elders,” carried on his teachings, opening studios and training instructors around the world.
The Reformer itself evolved too. What started as a simple bed frame with springs was reimagined by modern equipment designers into the sleek, versatile machines we know and love today. With adjustable springs, footbars, and straps, the Reformer became the ultimate tool for a full-body workout, appealing to everyone from professional athletes to everyday movers.
From boutique studios to global phenomenon
By the 1990s, Pilates had exploded in popularity, thanks in part to Hollywood stars and fitness enthusiasts who couldn’t stop raving about it. Reformer Pilates classes began popping up in boutique studios worldwide, offering a fresh alternative to more traditional gym workouts. The low-impact, high-reward nature of the practice made it a hit for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Today, Reformer Pilates is a global phenomenon, blending its rich history with modern innovations. At Strong + Bendy, we’re proud to honour the legacy of Joseph Pilates while putting our own inclusive, body-positive spin on the practice.
Why the Reformer stands the test of time
So, what makes the Reformer such an enduring favourite? Simply put, its versatility. The machine can adapt to your body, your goals, and your mood. Whether you’re looking to build strength, improve flexibility, or rehabilitate an injury, the Reformer meets you where you are and challenges you to grow.
Plus, let’s be real: working out on a Reformer just feels cool. Gliding on the carriage, engaging the springs, and feeling every muscle come alive? It’s a vibe.
Reformer Pilates today at Strong + Bendy
At Strong + Bendy, we’re all about taking this incredible legacy and making it accessible, fun, and empowering for everyone. Our Reformer classes are designed to help you feel strong, capable, and totally in tune with your body – no matter your fitness level.
We’re carrying forward Joseph Pilates’ vision of mindful, intentional movement, but with a fresh twist that reflects our values: inclusivity, body positivity, and joyful exploration.
Whether you’re stepping onto the Reformer for the first time or you’re a seasoned pro, you’re joining a rich tradition of movement that’s been changing lives for over a century. Book your class at Strong + Bendy today and become part of the story. Let’s move, connect, and make some magic together.
Curious about Reformer Pilates? We’d love to see you at one of our Chilled Reformer classes!
More information below:
Reformer FAQs | Reformer Timetable | Contact Us
