Evolution, Not Tradition: Why Weights are the Secret Ingredient in our Reformer Pilates Classes

The Science of Strength Training Classes in Morningside

If you’ve stepped into one of Pilates classes at Sano in Morningside recently, you’ve likely noticed a pair of dumbbells sitting next to your Reformer. For some, they are a welcome challenge; for others, they might raise a few questions.

“Is this still ‘proper’ Pilates?”

“Why are we doing this instead of just using the springs?”

“Isn’t this just a gym workout now?”

I’ve heard these whispers, and I want to be open and transparent with you about why I program my classes this way. It isn't because I want to make things "harder" for the sake of it—it’s because I feel a deep responsibility to ensure that the hour you spend with me actually delivers the results you’re looking for.

Client practicing weighted Reformer Pilates in Morningside studio for increased bone density.

Why Beginners Strength is a Priority for Longevity

The Goal: Strength vs. Stability

When I look at the intake forms of new clients entering our studio, almost 90% of you list “increasing strength” as a top priority.

The Reformer is a magnificent machine. Its springs provide unique resistance that improves eccentric strength and flexibility. However, the body is an incredibly adaptive machine. If you do the same movements at the same resistance for months, your body hits a plateau. To keep getting stronger, we need Progressive Overload.

By adding dumbbells to a lunge or a seated arm series, we aren’t just "lifting weights." We are asking your body to control an external load *while* managing the movement of an unstable carriage. This forces your core, your stabilisers, and your balance to work at a much higher level than springs alone can provide.

Bone Density: The Vital Benefit for Women Over 40

The "Over 40" Priority: Bone Density

This is a personal one for me. I came to Pilates because a genetic bone condition meant I couldn’t participate in traditional "high-impact" fitness.

For women, especially those over 40, resistance training is no longer "optional"—it is a medical necessity for bone density. To stimulate bone growth and prevent osteopenia, we need load. By incorporating weights into our Pilates flow, we are bridging the gap for those who don’t want to go to a traditional gym but still need the life-saving benefits of strength training.

Is it "Proper" Pilates?

There is often a debate about "Classical" vs. "Contemporary" Pilates. Classical Pilates follows the exact order and equipment of Joseph Pilates. Contemporary Pilates—which is what I teach—takes those foundational principles (Control, Precision, Breath, Centering) and updates them based on modern exercise science.

Clients performing a classical Pilates exercise

In my view, "Proper Pilates" is any movement that helps you move better, feel stronger, and live a pain-free life. Adding weights doesn't abandon Pilates principles; it demands you use them even more. You need *more* control to hold a dumbbell while balancing. You need *more* precision to keep the carriage still.

Why the "Hard" Class is the Right Class

I know it can be tempting to choose the classes that feel "easier" or more comfortable. But comfort is where progress goes to sleep.

If my classes feel challenging, it’s because I am programming them to ensure you are actually adapting. I want you to leave the studio not just feeling "stretched," but feeling resilient and capable.

Close up of kettlebells used during a Reformer Pilates Edinburgh class.

Over the next few weeks, I’ll be sharing more about the science of how we use weights, how it protects your joints, and why "challenging" is just another word for "changing."

I invite you to embrace the weights. Not because we’re a gym, but because we are a studio dedicated to your long-term health, strength, and evolution.

See you on the carriage (and don't be afraid to pick up those 2kg weights!)

Heather x

Frequently Asked Questions about Reformer Pilates Edinburgh

1. Is this class suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. Our approach to Reformer Pilates Edinburgh is all about meeting you where you are. If you are focused on building beginners strength, we introduce weights gradually. You will always have the option to master the movement on the carriage first before we add the extra challenge of dumbbells. Safety and form always come before the load.

2. How is this different from traditional strength training classes?

Traditional strength training classes in Morningside often focus on lifting heavy loads on a stable floor. In our studio, we combine resistance with the unstable surface of the Reformer. This means you aren’t just training your "mirror muscles"; you are training your deep stabilisers, core, and coordination all at once. It’s a more functional, full-body approach to getting strong.

3. Will adding weights make me "bulk up"?

This is a common myth! We give options from light to moderate weights specifically to improve muscular endurance and bone density. This type of training creates a lean, toned, and resilient physique. Our goal for Pilates Morningside is to help you feel powerful and capable in your daily life, not to train like a bodybuilder.

4. What if I prefer to do the class without weights?

While I encourage everyone to try the weighted variations to ensure they don't plateau, your workout is always yours. Every exercise can be modified. However, most of our clients find that once they try the weighted version of a move, they realise how much more "connected" they feel to their core and glutes!

5. Why should I choose your Reformer class over a standard gym?

Many of our clients find the gym environment intimidating or boring. By choosing Reformer Pilates Edinburgh, you get the best of both worlds: the postural alignment and flexibility of Pilates, combined with the metabolic and bone-health benefits of resistance work. It is a sophisticated, low-impact way to see real changes in your body without the risk of injury often found in high-impact gym settings.