Reformer Observation Logbook

Date of observation: 2026-06-06

Duration: 30 mins

Class type: 10 ppl

Instructor name: Holly

Studio / location: Halo Reformer Killarney

Class structure & exercise selection: This sessions started with Footwork and then into many high intensity moves including Standing Leg and Arm Series. The bloodflow and heart rate increaed quickly withlots of dynamic and challenging moves. This was probably the highest intensity Class I've been to so far.

Cueing style & teaching highlights: There were very good cues surrounding the core or trunk, reminding us to keep our posture aligned and breaths strong. Holly demostrated a series of moves first on her Reformer and then as we moved through them, she provided clear verbal explanations and encouragement.

Class management & safety: The flow of moves worked extremely well, with the end of one move leading into the next move smoothly. The music also added to the intensity and enjoyment of the Class.

My takeaways for teaching: 1) I really enjoyed the Tempo, as ensured concentration was maximised during the class.
2) The Flows also worked very well and I felt that every part of my body was worked on. So I enjoyed the full-body excercises high intensity session.
3) Reminders of of spinal positions and breathing Cues throughout - this is especially important as the bodies tires towards the end of the Class

Date of observation: 2026-06-07

Duration: 40 minutes

Class type: 10 ppl

Instructor name: Holly

Studio / location: Halo, KIllarney

Class structure & exercise selection: Again we started with the Spring instruction, into Footwork. We did several Bridge Series moves in this Class, then into the Leg Series and also the Rowing Moves and side-lying Swords and Abduction / Adduction. We also included Box Series in long and short positions. The tempo again was high and also the bloodflow.

Cueing style & teaching highlights: We were reminded of our trunk position i.e. imprinted or neutral for each move. Tactile cues were used on me for the Rowing moves to keep my shoulders and elbows high. Cues were subtle, with Holly first addressing the group together and only using tactile cues when needed (my elbow position for the High Row was too low for example). I appreciated the initial cues first to allow me adjust, and then tactile cues only when necessary. There was also lots of encouragement.

Class management & safety: The moves all flowed nicely into each other again, with minimal Spring Changes needed. Props were also used nicely in sequence. Instructions again were clear to allow a safe class in a high speed.

My takeaways for teaching: 1)) Before client begins move, ensure spring instruction is given (to avoid the need to adjust springs mid exercise)
2) Use visualisation - I was struggling with the initial Bridge, however the cue 'Bring knees over toes' helped me to align properly
3) Repeat instruction clearly to the whole group during the move, to allow any clients to correct before an individual adjustment is needed. This allows a Group class to flow better. In one to one, there will be more time for tactile instruction.

Date of observation: 2026-06-27

Duration: 35 minutes

Class type: Large

Instructor name: Holly

Studio / location: Halo Reformer

Class structure & exercise selection: Footwork > Standing Leg series (Lunges, skater, scooter), Long stretch, down stretch, Arm series. Included weights

Cueing style & teaching highlights: Repeated cues for neutral spine, Springs allocation and breathwork

Class management & safety: For a beginner class I would do one move at a time, (instead of talking / demonstrating through 3 / 4 moves) to allow for time to process. But the instructions were good for this intermediate classes

My takeaways for teaching: Keep class interesting by adding props, weights, rings etc. Music is helpful for faster paced classes, but to also turn off when speaking if a large room. Keep cueing spinal positions and breaths (without over focussing)

Date of observation: 2026-06-28

Duration: 40 mins

Class type: Large

Instructor name: Holly / Aoife

Studio / location: Halo

Class structure & exercise selection: Stomach Massage - Round Back, Flat Back, Tree,
Long Stretch Series: Long Stretch, Down Stretch, Up Stretch, Elephant,

Cueing style & teaching highlights: Visual & Verbal - were lucky through all classes that instructor has a Refromer to demonstrate on first, before repeating and observing while /.we do the moves. Again, constant reminders of spinal positions, breathing were given throughout the class,

Class management & safety: This Class was slightly slower than usual, but with the same level of attention given regarding starting safety, springs, and body positions

My takeaways for teaching: To demonstrate where possible, using visual cues which can then be used while moving around the room and observing clients,

Gently repeat instructions, before attending to individuals. While it is important to correct clients, it is also important not to isolate them (some people may lose joy or confidence if they become too conscious of being called out).

Secondly, remember why people come to a Class. There are many reasons (fitness, exercise, community, rehabilitation, necessity) but overall the main thing is to make them feel very welcome, very safe and also to enjoy (And also so they will return!)

Lastly, as an instructor to be professional but also to bring your joy and energy at being able to offer this wonderful practice to people