Reformer 1:1 Session Plan Case Study

Client name / initials: Kristina

Client level: Beginner

Session number: 1

Date: 2026-07-05

Session duration: 30 minutes

Equipment needed: Reformer

Session goals: improve core stability, develop footwork technique, introduce supine arm work, build confidence on the reformer

Health screening notes: no current injuries- standard PAR-Q clear

Modifications & adaptations for warm-up: 1) Reduce range of motion, 2) Remove the zig-zag complexity, 3) Slow tempo, 4) Increase spring load

Client feedback: Client reported feeling “my abs working” when slowing the movements down and noticed more instability on the left side, saying “my hips want to twist when I go faster.” They also shared that the running variation “makes my legs burn, but in a good way,” and that they felt more control when focusing on heel pressing and reducing speed. After the session, the client said, “my core feels switched on, not just my legs,” and noticed improved awareness of pelvic control, especially during the diagonal single-leg work, commenting that it “made me think a lot more about how I’m moving.”

Reflection: The session went well in terms of improving the client’s awareness of core engagement and pelvic stability, especially when slowing the tempo and simplifying cues like focusing on heel pressure and controlled movement. However, progressing into running and more complex single-leg zig-zag work came slightly too soon, as it led to some loss of stability and hip twisting, particularly on the left side. In future sessions, I would keep the focus on slower, more controlled walking patterns for longer before introducing speed or complexity, and reduce range earlier to maintain alignment. The main learning was that this client responds best to precision, slower progressions, and slightly heavier resistance to support control rather than rushing intensity.

Next session focus: Next session will continue to prioritise foundational control and pelvic stability before adding speed or complexity. The main focus will be on reinforcing slower walking patterns and reducing range in single-leg work to maintain alignment under load. Running will be reintroduced only in a more controlled, lower-range format if stability holds. Zig-zag work will be regressed to straight single-leg presses initially, then gradually rebuilt into diagonal movement once the pelvis remains consistent. Progressions will emphasise precision over speed, using heavier spring settings for stability and adding brief holds at end range to improve control, while avoiding premature advancement into faster running patterns.