Pilates Reformer Classes

Find your strength and balance with Pilates Reformer classes at the YMCA of the East Bay. Guided by certified instructors, these low-impact workouts use specialized reformer equipment to build core stability, improve posture, and enhance flexibility. Whether you’re new to Pilates or an experienced member, our classes offer a supportive space to move, stretch, and grow stronger together.

A group of 3 women with their arms up take a pilates reformer class on pilates reformer machines.

How Our Classes Work

Pilates Reformer classes are offered at our Berkeley, Oakland, and Pleasant Hill Fitness Centers. Sessions are typically 4-5 weeks, with one class per week. We also offer specialty clinics focusing on specific areas, and one-time / break week classes between sessions. 

Find your level below, then sign up at the bottom of the page!

Find Your Class Level

Learn about our different class levels, then register below!

Gentle Pilates
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Gentle Pilates

Move at a slower, intentional pace to build awareness of strength, anatomical connections, coordination, and control. Using fundamental Pilates exercises, you’ll improve balance, mobility, and flexibility while developing a strong core to move with greater confidence.  Start out at Gentle Level I and move up to Gentle II with instructor’s permission.

Level I: Fundamentals

This class will give you a solid foundation of the fundamental Pilates reformer exercises.  This level is perfect for people new to Pilates, haven't practiced Pilates in a while, or just want to go deeper into the fundamentals of Pilates reformer.

Level II: Advanced Fundamentals

This class is for members who have a strong foundation of Pilates reformer fundamentals and are looking for a greater challenge. We encourage at least 15 classes of Level I or the equivalent prior to moving on to Level II OR a recommendation from your current instructor. Prior reformer experience required includes an understanding of neutral spine, imprinted spine, tabletop position, familiarity with changing reformer springs and foot bar, and experience using reformer straps on feet and hands. The ability to hold your weight on knees, forearms/hands/fists is required.

Level III: Intermediate

Intermediate classes feature a broader and more challenging Pilates repertoire with increased complexity, coordination, and pace. Prior reformer experience is required. Participants must have completed at least 15 Level II classes (or equivalent) and receive permission from the director or instructor before registering.  Participants should demonstrate a strong understanding of foundational reformer exercises and sequencing, enabling the instructor to cue complex exercises and corrections while maintaining class pace.  The ability perform a plank with weight on hands and feet while carriage moves 1-2 feet, perform a roll up and hold balance point and/or teaser for at least 20-30 seconds, and maintain confident balance to safely perform kneeling exercises, standing side splits, and lunges on the reformer is required.  Must be able to safely flex, extend, and rotate spine, and be free of injuries and limitations.

 

Note: You must have the recommendation of your YMCA pilates instructor to participate in Level III classes.