The Casa Reformer blog
Honest writing about reformer pilates, building the studio and living well in Nerja. New pieces as we build toward opening.
What is reformer pilates? A beginner's guide
New to reformer pilates? Here is what the machine actually does, what a class looks like and why springs make it work for every level.
Planning a retreat in Nerja? Add reformer pilates
Nerja is one of southern Spain's favourite retreat towns. The local scene, and why a reformer session makes any programme better.
The reformer, explained: one machine for every age and level
Carriage, springs, footbar, straps: how the machine works, and how the same movements scale from first-timer to athlete at any age.
Footwork on the reformer: the exercise every class starts with
Footwork looks like a simple leg press. It is the reformer's diagnostic, warm-up and strength builder in one. How to do it and scale it.
Leg circles in the straps: the reformer's sweetest exercise
Feet in the straps, legs drawing slow circles: the exercise regulars miss most. What leg circles work and how to keep them honest.
Long stretch: the reformer plank that rebuilds your core
Hands on the footbar, feet on the blocks, carriage gliding beneath you: why the moving plank beats the static one, and how to scale it.
Reformer lunges: single-leg strength for hills and stairs
One foot planted, one on the gliding carriage: lunges build the single-leg strength and balance that hills and stairs demand.
Rowing on the reformer: arm work that fixes your posture
The rowing series works arms, shoulders and upper back through the straps: the best answer to desk shoulders and screen-time posture.
Yoga vs pilates: which one is right for you?
Yoga and pilates look similar from the outside but train your body differently. An honest comparison, and why the best answer is often both.
Barre vs reformer pilates: what is the difference?
Barre borrows from ballet, reformer pilates works with springs. What each class feels like, and how to choose between them.
Reformer pilates near Malaga: from the city to Nerja
Malaga's reformer scene is booming, but head east along the coast and studios thin out fast. What is available, and what is coming to Nerja.
Keeping up your pilates on holiday in Nerja
On holiday in Nerja and missing your reformer classes? How to keep moving on the Costa del Sol, and why a class abroad is worth it.
A wellness weekend in Nerja: a local's plan
Skip the packaged retreat. A realistic wellness weekend in Nerja: sea swims, mountain walks, good food and studio mornings.
Is reformer pilates strength training?
Springs are resistance, and resistance builds muscle. What reformer pilates genuinely does for strength, and what it will not do.
Reformer pilates and weight loss: an honest guide
Can reformer pilates help you lose weight? An honest look at calories, muscle, appetite and habits, without the miracle marketing.
Pilates for hikers and runners: built for the Nerja trails
Nerja's trails are glorious and unforgiving. How the reformer fixes the weak links hiking and running expose: hips, core, ankles.
Reformer pilates through menopause: strength when it matters most
Muscle, bones, joints and sleep all change through menopause. Why resistance training matters more now, and why the reformer suits it.
Moving to Nerja? How to build an active routine you will keep
New to Nerja or planning the move? How to turn endless summer into a real routine: anchor habits, weekly rhythm and community.
Reformer pilates is coming to Nerja: meet Casa Reformer
Casa Reformer opens at Calle Angustias 28 in Nerja after the summer of 2026: eight reformers, small groups and coaching for every level.
Reformer pilates vs mat pilates: the real differences
Springs or bodyweight? How reformer and mat pilates differ in support, resistance and results, and how to choose between them.
7 benefits of reformer pilates you can feel in the first month
From posture and deep core strength to happier joints: seven realistic benefits of consistent reformer pilates, without the hype.
Your first reformer class: what to wear and what to expect
Grip socks, fitted clothing and no experience needed: a practical guide to walking into your first reformer pilates class with confidence.
How often should you do reformer pilates?
Once, twice or three times a week? A realistic guide to reformer pilates frequency for real schedules, and why consistency beats intensity.
Reformer pilates after 50: why springs are kinder than weights
Low impact, joint-friendly and endlessly adjustable: why reformer pilates is one of the best ways to build strength and balance after 50.
Reformer pilates and back pain: how controlled movement helps
Why supported, controlled reformer work is often recommended for stiff and achy backs, and how to start safely.
An active life in Nerja: hikes, sea swims and studio mornings
How to stay strong and mobile in Nerja: the Rio Chillar walk, Frigiliana hills, Burriana swims and reformer pilates to hold it all together.
Why small-group reformer classes change everything
Eight people, eight reformers, one coach who actually sees you: why class size is the most underrated factor in getting results.
Be first through the door
Casa Reformer opens in Nerja after the summer of 2026. Join the founding list for first access to the schedule and the opening offers.