Despite Reformer Pilates still having that “boutique fitness” reputation that some guys might hesitate over, it is increasingly attracting male participants in London, reflecting a broader trend of men embracing this form of exercise. Endorsed by more athletes, PT’s and even celebs, the benefits of Reformer Pilates align well with men’s fitness goals, including enhanced core strength, flexibility, posture improvement, and injury prevention, making it an appealing complement to other forms of exercise, such as weightlifting or cardiovascular training.
Reformer Pilates prevents injuries by strengthening your core, improving flexibility, and promoting better posture. Its low-impact, controlled movements build balanced strength and body awareness, reducing strain on joints and preventing imbalances.
A man trying Reformer Pilates for the first time usually goes through a mix of surprise, struggle, and eventual respect for how tough it actually is. Here’s a breakdown of the experience:
Expectation: “This is just stretching and some core work.”
Reality: “Why is my whole body shaking, and why does everything hurt in the best way?”
STRENGTH AND CONTROL
Men who lift weights or do high-intensity workouts often assume they’re strong—but Reformer Pilates demands slow, controlled movement that exposes muscle imbalances and weaknesses. Holding a lunge on a moving carriage? Brutal.
CORE & FLEXIBILITY
The core engagement is next-level. It’s not just abs—it’s deep stabilizing muscles that most workouts don’t target. And the flexibility aspect? Most guys realize their hamstrings are way tighter than they thought.
EGO CHECK
Watching someone who’s been doing Pilates for years move effortlessly through exercises while you’re sweating and shaking is humbling. But it’s also motivating.
FINAL VERDICT
Men who give Reformer Pilates a proper go usually respect it—if not fully adopt it. It’s challenging, improves mobility, and helps prevent injuries. Some might start as skeptics but leave convinced it’s legit.
We have hosted a men only event in collaboration with Vuori at our Earlsfield location and it was a success, I’m sure the participants would agree 😀
