It might surprise you, but Reformer Pilates is actually over 100 years old! Joseph Pilates developed it during WWI using hospital beds to help with strength and mobility. Since then, it’s evolved into a more intense and dynamic workout, practiced by both men and women around the world.

You’ve probably seen the reformer machine either in person or on social media. The moves on this machine target those tiny muscles regular exercises often miss, helping you build strength, improve flexibility, and tone up quicker. You’ll not only feel stronger but also notice a boost in energy and better posture. Stick with it, and soon you’ll see a more sculpted, balanced body!

Personally, I’ve noticed a real difference in my thigh muscles (goodbye, cellulite), my core (hello, abs), and my arms. Basically, my whole body has felt stronger. While I’ve never had trouble losing weight, building strength and muscle was always my struggle. I should also mention that I’m not a fan of the gym—I lose interest quickly and never know what exercises to do on my own. Reformer Pilates, though, has helped me stay consistent and actually enjoy working out. Now that I’ve got that out of the way, let me share some Reformer studios I’ve tried in London. I’ve tested plenty because I’m determined to find the best trainers who truly pour their heart and soul into it.

It wouldn’t be right to start anywhere other than Karve. Originally from vibrant NYC, Karve fits perfectly into the fast-paced London lifestyle.

What sets Karve apart from other reformer studios is their custom-built “Transformer” machines, and trust me, you can definitely feel the difference. Each session kicks off with a warm-up, followed by a high-intensity full-body workout, and wraps up with a stretch and mindfulness session to reset both body and mind.

Karve’s endurance-focused workout targets slow-twitch muscle fibers, helping to boost strength and metabolism. While it’s intense, the workout is easy on the joints, so you’ll only feel that satisfying muscle soreness (no joint pain here!).

I won’t lie, these classes are on the pricier side. The original South Kensington studio charges £35 per class, but you can buy class packs to lower the cost a bit per session. They also offer a monthly membership for £400. Karve’s beautiful new studio in Chelsea charges the same as the original, but they’ve launched an amazing Founding Unlimited Membership for just £250 for the first 100 people. If you’re interested, grab it before it’s gone! Find out more here.

Reformcore is another one of our top picks. Created by Barrecore, they blend effective barre techniques with a focus on strengthening your core. The studios are gorgeous, the classes are intense, and the instructors are next-level amazing. I’ve done 25 classes so far, and I can confidently say that Jade McFadden has been my favorite instructor. She’s all about the details and modifications, especially when it comes to your posture, and you won’t get a moment to relax during her sessions. Unlike some reformer classes where you feel like you’re lying down the whole session, Reformcore incorporates a lot of standing up movement too and incorporates dumbbells to really get your arms burning.

A great bonus is that they have multiple locations around the city, so you’re bound to find one nearby! One class starts at £35 but you can buy class packs to bring down the costs, while an unlimited membership is £204 a month.

Now listen up – we’ve stumbled upon a hidden gem that hasn’t been talked about much yet. It seems to be London elite’s best kept secret. MAD is London’s first licensed Lagree studio, with locations in Mayfair and Chelsea. I know, Lagree isn’t exactly Reformer, but the moves and results are very similar to what you get with Reformer Pilates. The MAD Megaformer machines remind me of the ones at Karve—big, heavy, and definitely more challenging.

This workout is designed to strip fat, build lean muscle, chisel the core, challenge your heart, improve endurance, boost flexibility, and enhance that all-important mind-body connection. What’s great about MAD is that they offer full-body classes as well as focused ones—like abs & arms or legs & booty. Plus, they cater to both beginners and advanced Pilates fans. They recommend doing 3 beginner classes before jumping into their classic sessions.

You can try out 3 classes for £70, with £35 per class after that, or go all-in with an unlimited monthly membership for £390, which gives you access to Lagree, Yoga, and Barre! Check it out here.

Ah, Nobu – is there anything they can’t do? Hotels, restaurants, and now Reformer Pilates studios. Nobu Pilates, the first of its kind, offers a fresh and dynamic approach to Pilates, developed by Creative Director Marsha Lindsay. They blend classical Pilates principles with modern techniques for a truly unique experience. Their gorgeous, light-filled studio in Marylebone offers three signature classes: POWER, PRECISION, and PURE. With a maximum of ten people per class, you get plenty of individual attention while still enjoying the group vibe. Private one-on-one sessions are also available.

The POWER class is a high-energy, full-body, HIIT-style workout that blends Pilates with fast-paced fusion moves. PRECISION is all about targeting specific muscle groups to sculpt your upper or lower body. PURE is a masterclass using all the original Pilates equipment—the reformer, tower, and chairs—for a comprehensive full-body workout focused on posture and core strength. My personal favorite has been PURE, as I got to use equipment that most studios don’t have, making it feel like I’m getting something extra special for my money.

Classes start at £37, check out more here!

Bodyism really takes things up a notch. With their exclusive membership, you not only get to enjoy their unique reformer Pilates classes but also regular wellness assessments, personalized training, and nutrition and lifestyle plans, all tracked effortlessly through the Bodyism Online Portal.

Their 3,800 sqft space in Notting Hill has three studios, with the reformer class located just beside the reception. Inside, there are only four reformer beds, making for a more intimate and focused experience compared to larger group classes. Bodyism’s expert instructors guide you through various Pilates moves, helping you perfect techniques that target your inner thighs, triceps, core, and shoulders.

And if Pilates isn’t your thing, don’t worry—they’ve also got a fantastic café with great coffee and delicious pancakes.

Memberships start at £300 a month, but you get access to all the members benefits including other fitness classes. Check it out here!

Pilates in the Clouds – sounds dreamy, right? Well, it’s not just dreamy, it’s intense too! This is where all your favorite Instagram models with abs go to train. With almost 20k followers on Instagram, Pilates in the Clouds clearly knows their stuff. Located in Notting Hill, London, the studio keeps class sizes small, with only three people per session, ensuring a personalized Pilates experience with a focus on form and precise attention to each movement to help you achieve real results. They are soon launching their online classes so you can train in the comfort of your own home. Let us know what you think!