Reformer Observation Logbook

Date of observation: 2026-06-09

Duration: 45 minutes

Class type: Large group

Instructor name: Edele Daly

Studio / location: Halo Killarney

Class structure & exercise selection: The class had a lovely flow. We started with footwork which I really enjoyed. Edele ensured that the clients kept a neutral spine. The clients then completed supine arm series and she checked that all clients had good alignment. Then Edele taught a bridging series followed by a standing leg series. For a cool down the clients completed a number of exercises with legs in straps.

Cueing style & teaching highlights: The instructor cued visually, verbally and tactile. A number of clients had poor table top position and she fixed this by tactile cues. The more challenging moves she demonstrated them on the reformer and gave excellent verbal instructions to ensure clients had an understanding of what to do. At one stage the clients were told to hold the Pilates ring like a halo over their head and this was a great visual cue.

Class management & safety: Spring changes happened when the carriage was stationary. At the beginning of the class foot bars were up. 4 springs were on and clients were asked to check if all their straps were the same length. At the end carriages were wiped down and all springs were put back on.

My takeaways for teaching: The class had a lovely flow. I think the warm up was lovely and I would definitely incorporate footwork into my warm up. Edele helped clients alignment and I will definitely do this when I’m an instructor. Edele cued the leg series very well and I will use this in my teaching.

Date of observation: 2026-06-10

Duration: 45 minutes

Instructor name: holly

Studio / location: Halo Killarney

Class structure & exercise selection: The class had a lovely flow to it and we started with footwork. Clients then progressed into a bridging series, a back rowing series, long stretch series and short box series. This class was an intermediate level and a number of options were given for each pilates move to cater to clients of different abilities. Jenifer cued the long stretch series very well and she helped the clients who struggled with the elephant. Clients closed their eyes at the end of the class and completed a minute of mindfulness.

Cueing style & teaching highlights: The instructor used a number of tactile cues to help learners. the instructor also demonstrated the cues on the floor to show the clients what she wanted to do.

Class management & safety: The same springs were used for a lot of the movements. The instructor ensured clients had proper alignment. The exercises flowed well.

My takeaways for teaching: The instructor used tactile cues very well which insured client shad good alignment. The instructor also showed the moves visually which aided a lot of learners. I will definitely teach a similar class to my clients in the future.

Date of observation: 2026-06-13

Duration: 45 minutes

Instructor name: Chloe Mc Carthy

Studio / location: Halo Killarney

Class structure & exercise selection: the class had a lovely flow to it. At times the class was high intensity but started and ended in a lovely calming way. The instructor taught new moves that I had not seen before and the clients really enjoyed them, An example of this is a shoulder press exercise. The clients did a leg in straps series and also completed a lunge series. At the end clients had an opportunity to lye on the carriage and have a moment of mindfulness.

Cueing style & teaching highlights: The instructor used a lot of visual and tactile cues. The exercises were demonstrated on the reformer and she clearly explained how to complete each move. The instructor then walked around the class making sure all clients were completing the move correctly. The instructor reminded the clients numerous times about the importance of breathing and told clients to breathe on the exertion.

Class management & safety: The transitions were very smooth and clients completed multiple moves in the same positions. The instructor gave recommendations for spring tension and the changed them for clients whom needed heavier or lighter. Modifications were made to exercises where clients did not feel confident to complete certain moves.

My takeaways for teaching: I think the modifications were very important in the class and I'm motivated to provide appropriate modifications for clients. The minute to relax at the end of the class was a very nice touch for clients and its something I would incorporate into my teaching.

Date of observation: 2026-06-14

Duration: 45 minutes

Class type: large

Instructor name: holly

Studio / location: halo

Class structure & exercise selection: **Class Structure & Exercise Selection**

A Pilates Reformer class should follow a clear and progressive structure. The class begins with a warm-up to prepare the body, increase circulation, and improve mobility. For example, exercises such as **Breathing**, **Pelvic Curl**, **Footwork**, and **Hip Rolls** help activate the core, mobilise the spine, and bring awareness to proper alignment. The main section of the class focuses on strength, stability, flexibility, and coordination, with exercises selected to suit the client's goals, ability, and any physical limitations. The class finishes with a cool-down and gentle stretches to promote relaxation, improve flexibility, and leave the body feeling balanced and refreshed.

Cueing style & teaching highlights: **Cueing Style & Teaching Highlights**

Effective cueing should be clear, concise, and easy to follow, using simple language to guide movement and breathing. Verbal, visual, and tactile cues can be used to help clients understand correct technique, maintain proper alignment, and activate the appropriate muscles. Teaching highlights include encouraging smooth, controlled movements, promoting neutral spine and core engagement, reminding clients to breathe throughout each exercise, and providing modifications or progressions to suit different ability levels. Positive feedback and regular observation help improve confidence, safety, and movement quality.

Class management & safety: **Class Management & Safety**

Effective class management helps create a safe, organised, and supportive learning environment. Before the class begins, ensure each Reformer is set up correctly and check that springs, straps, footbars, and headrests are adjusted appropriately for each exercise. Clearly explain exercise instructions, demonstrate correct technique, and remind clients to work within their own ability. Observe participants throughout the class, offering corrections, modifications, or progressions where needed. Encourage controlled movements, proper breathing, and safe transitions on and off the Reformer to reduce the risk of injury. Maintaining good communication and regularly monitoring the group helps ensure a safe, enjoyable, and effective class for everyone.

My takeaways for teaching: **My Takeaways for Teaching**

Teaching this Pilates Reformer class reinforced the importance of clear communication, effective cueing, and careful observation of each client. I learned that good planning and exercise sequencing help the class flow smoothly and keep participants engaged. I also recognised the value of adapting exercises to suit different abilities and providing positive, constructive feedback to build confidence. Moving forward, I will continue to develop my cueing skills, improve my demonstrations, and focus on creating safe, enjoyable, and effective classes that support each client's individual goals.