Pilates Reformer: The Fly Technique

Pilates-style classes have a lot of variation in technique from studio to studio. At Fly, we believe in creating the burn and pushing the limits of what our bodies and minds can do in each of our formats. Fly’s Pilates reformer classes focus on building strength and flexibility – inside and out in every single session.

Our reformers use high-energy series that move our clients through class quickly but with dedicated burnout in each muscle group. Carefully curated playlists set the pace for challenging series, precise instruction with hands-on guidance & a focus on strength + flexibility.

Our Fly reformer method is a combination of resistance and interval training as well as flexibility training. It is very different from other Pilates classes, yet also incorporates traditional Pilates by taking a mind-body approach to work the entire body.

The Fly formula combines core and interval training, dynamic movements and muscle exhaustion as well as resistance training to systematically lengthen and strengthen every muscle in the body. Our classes are different than other types of Pilates – for several reasons:

OUR FORMULA

1. Intervals: Fly reformer classes use timed intervals for 1-2 minutes per exercise, rather than number of repetitions.
2. Quick transitions: Fly reformer classes move quickly between transitions and exercises, with no designed breaks in class.
3. Range of movement: We work to fatigue each muscle, working with a full range movement, pulses and holds, to work different speeds and then working back through these movements for slightly shorter periods. This approach fatigues the muscles but also keeps the energy moving from one movement to the next.
4. 360 approach: Our classes use a 360 approach, moving from warmup, through core and then from one side of the body to the other. This dynamic & full circle approach keeps the classes moving quickly by keeping transitions, equipment changes, and need for explanation to a minimum.
5. Lead-in cueing: Explanations of upcoming movements are given during the last portion of the prior exercise so that breaks are as few as possible.
6. Hand-on small groups: Our small-group format allows for customized coaching & resistance adjustments throughout the sessions. Our instructors are hands-on, making adjustments if clients need them, and responding as the class needs shift.

Pilates reformer classes have been gaining momentum because the style is great for all levels – with low-impact movements designed to strengthen & increase flexibility, there are a ton of benefits for any fitness goal. Book a Fly Pilates reformer class at any of our Nebraska, North Dakota or Colorado studios!