Since I'm “living” in Bali for the next few weeks, I figured I should embrace the lifestyle - and yes, that definitely includes a good Pilates session.
Personal experience
I did a pilates class once before, when I was living in Nottingham. Let me tell you, it was by far the most uncomfortable work out I’ve ever done. I followed a class mat pilates, which focuses on exercises performed on a mat - the designation speaks for itself, really. Anyhow, the mats were so thin my entire body started aching just from laying on the floor - let alone trying to move.
So, when I arrived in Canggu and saw the amount of Reformer Pilates classes available - the ones that include the Pilates Reformer Machine - I just knew I had to try.
The Reformer experience
When one of the girls from my dorm asked whether I wanted to join her for a class of pilates, I couldn’t let the opportunity pass and decided to join.
The next morning, I found myself in “grip” socks - the ones with silicone underneath to prevent you from slipping off -, adjusting the red to the green and yellow springs - providing adjustable resistance - and lowering the footbar - to support my feet and arms during the exercises.
Especially adjusting the springs correctly is extremely important. The first exercise we did, I saw everybody moving around so easily and I was fighting my way through. I thought: "What is happening? I go to the gym nearly every day, it can’t be that my muscles have deteriorated so tremendously."
What did I come to learn?
I was using two green springs, whereas the rest was using a single one. Wait - what? I can’t even handle a double green?? Yes, it’s true, I wasn't able to take on a double green - which only applies to some exercises, of course. Some are just very intense, in which case adding a second green spring can make a massive difference.
Pulsing my way through
Overall, it was such a good and intense class. We were constantly changing up the springs, making it harder of the legs and easier on the shoulders. But the intensity never really dialed down. Even when you’d think it was an easier exercise, the instructor made sure to keep pushing until you really couldn’t push anymore.
All muscle groups were targeted, alternating combinations of legs, core, arms and glutes. And after every exercise, she made sure to top it off with some pulses, to really get everything out of the muscles.
Focus and breathing
In my experience the exercises are created to really focus on certain target areas and include good breathing whilst working out. Of course, your muscles start to ache, but the pace was manageable, which made it feel inclusive.
In my personal opinion, the classes could be a bit intenser - but then again, maybe I should just increase the resistance of the springs.
Would I recommend anyone to try it? 100%.
I definitely want to take Reformer Pilates home with me. I would combine them with my gym workouts, because I feel that I can gain more muscle mass there, but pilates definitely improves my core strength, flexibility and balance.
The benefits from Pilates
Which brings me to the benefits of pilates. As you might’ve read in the previous piece, I’ve followed a class in Mat and Reformer pilates and yes, different types of pilates offer different benefits. Let me go through the main ones with you.
Mat pilates
This form of pilates is mainly renowned for its effectiveness in strengthening the core muscles, which include the abdominal muscles, lower back, hips and glutes. It is very accessible, because it can be done with minimal equipment. The main thing you would need is a mat and a medium that provides the class for you.
I’ve been using the FitOn app, which offers workouts, meal plans, an information page and even a community section. You can use a lot of the workouts - if not all - and you can pay for a membership, to gain extra benefits and a personalized meal plan. 10/10 - would recommend this app.
Reformer pilates
You would need the Reformer machine to do this type of pilates. But seeing that they are trending, I’m sure there are many people offering this type of class. Thanks to engaging multiple muscle groups simultaneously and the resistance springs, reformer pilates promotes strength and toning. As I mentioned before, the focus is mainly on controlled movements and proper alignment, which enhances posture and increases flexibility.
Other forms of pilates
Then you’ve got a few other styles, which I haven’t tried yet. Such as Clinical pilates - often used in conjunction with physiotherapy and focuses on specific injuries or conditions -, Classical pilates - specific exercises developed by Joseph Pilates with principles like breath, control, precision and flow - and Contemporary pilates - incorporates elements from other fitness disciplines like yoga, physiotherapy, and general fitness training, alongside the core principles of pilates.
As you can see, they do share core principles, but the right form of pilates depends on your personal preference and goals.
Physical benefits
Pilates strengthens your entire body from the inside out. It’s especially powerful for improving core strength and stability, which helps with posture, balance, and injury prevention. Thanks to the low-impact nature of the exercises, it’s accessible for all levels and can even support rehabilitation. Over time, you’ll notice more flexibility, better coordination, and stronger, more toned muscles—without the joint strain that comes from heavier forms of exercise. It’s a smart, sustainable way to build a stronger body.
Overall benefits
Beyond the physical gains, pilates offers so many mental and emotional benefits. The focus on controlled movement and intentional breathing helps reduce stress, improves concentration, and increases body awareness. I’ve personally felt more balanced and clear-headed after each session. Many people also report better sleep and a more stable mood thanks to the calming, meditative aspect of the practice. It’s not just a workout - it’s a reset for your entire system.
My conclusion
My conclusion? Pilates is more than a trend. While it might be experiencing a popularity-peak at the moment, overall it's a very sustainable way of working out - thanks to the low impact form of exercise. It doesn’t just focus on building strength, but also on controlling your body and mindful breathing. Which will definitely improve your overall health.
And if that's not enough, I enjoy the positivity of the pilates community, too. Maybe it is the Bali-vibe, so I'm definitely going to try it again once I'm back in the Netherlands and see if the community vibe holds up.
But for now, I would recommend to try it. Especially if you want to start with easy with exercises to improve your overall lifestyle.
P.S. If you're ever in Bali, looking to do Pilates, the instructors from Ritual Pilates are amazing! Highly recommend. I will try some more places, to give the best judgement.
