Great for those who are new to the reformer, who prefer one-on-one training, or who are dealing with specific limitations and seek a more personalized, rehabilitative approach.
Ideal for those who like working out with up to two other people, who don't mind working out with someone new, and want to get the most bang for their Pilates buck.
WHY REFORMER?
The Reformer is similar to Mat Pilates in that it’s excellent for improving overall strength, flexibility, coordination and balance, but with an additional strength training component. And no, it’s not your imagination—the Reformer does resemble a scary torture device upon first glance. But rest assured, the Reformer is your friend.
To begin with, the Reformer provides valuable feedback for identifying asymmetries in the body--where you're weak and where you're strong. Unlike lifting weights, in which the weight itself plus gravity make for resistance, tension on the Reformer comes primarily from the front and back ends of the machine. These different points of resistance mean there can be greater emphasis on eccentric conditioning—stretching of muscle fibers under load. Eccentric conditioning is what gives muscles that lean, sculpted look.
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Beyond that, Pilates, whether on the Mat or on the machine, has been shown to reduce chronic pain, improve muscle tone and endurance, and boost your overall mood (this last one applies to all exercise, but still). All bodies can benefit from the Reformer, no matter age, mobility, ability or size. Looking forward to seeing your body at the Speakeasy.
MEET THE INSTRUCTOR
Jessie Knadler, Speakeasy Owner
After years of distance running and Ashtanga yoga, Jessie turned to Pilates in her 20s after finding it to be the most efficient, foundational form of exercise there is, emphasizing not just strength and flexibility, but overall balance, structure and body awareness. Since turning to Pilates, she has never been injured, a fact she attributes to all her years of Pilates conditioning.
Jessie received her Pilates teaching certification through STOTT, regarded as one of the more preeminent Pilates certifying bodies nationally because of its deep roots in physical therapy. She has been teaching Pilates and other forms of group fitness for more than thirteen years. In 2017, she transitioned exclusively to apparatus training, which includes the Reformer, Tower/Cadillac, Pilates chairs, jump boards and Bosu balls. In addition to teaching fitness Reformer classes, she is trained to work with injured and special population clients (pre- and post-natal, seniors, scoliosis, obesity, back pain, labral tears, etc). When working with new clients, she examines dysfunctional biomechanical patterns first and develops a program to correct them. When she’s not helping clients look and feel their best, Jessie is a writer and editor and stays busy raising two wonderful daughters.
TESTIMONIALS
BEVERLY, 35
Pilates Reformer is hands down my favorite form of exercise I've ever done. I leave each session with Jessie feeling energized and empowered. She explains each move carefully and her killer soundtracks make the time fly by.
CRISTIN, 39
I like taking Pilates Reformer classes from teachers who have a lot of experience. Jessie and Kristen are very well trained and have decades of experience under their belts. I feel totally safe and comfortable in their hands.
ANITA, 73
Jessie is knowledgeable, supportive, and caring as an instructor and person. I ‘talk-up’
the studio to anyone who might be interested in Reformer Pilates. You will not regret booking a lesson!
