Working from home has its perks, but it can easily throw your routine off balance. Between content creation, modeling, and everything else on my plate as a media inventory analyst, I knew I needed something grounding—something that would keep me focused, energized, and connected to my body.
I’ve tried the gym route, but honestly? It’s not for me. The open layout, the distractions, the guessing game of what to do next—I just couldn’t get into it. I need structure. I need someone to guide me, challenge me, and hold me accountable. That’s what drew me to Reformer Pilates & I decided to do 4 classes a week!
From the very first class, I felt a shift. It wasn’t just about sweating—it was about control, form, and awareness. Every movement felt intentional, and I loved how it pushed me without overwhelming me. It gave me the feeling of being in sync with my body, which is something I wasn’t use to when working out.
Reformer Pilates has quietly become the workout that keeps me coming back, not just for the physical benefits, but for how it makes me feel mentally. It’s a low-impact, high-reward kind of movement—strengthening my core, improving my posture, and even helping with balance (a huge plus when you’re tall like me, hello 6’0 girlies). I’ve noticed I carry myself differently now—more upright, more poised, more confident in my own frame walking around the streets of New York.
What I also appreciate is how Pilates taps into deep muscle engagement. It’s not about doing a million reps; it’s about doing fewer reps with more intention. Taking your time and listening to your body is reformer pilates core. That kind of precision has helped me tone my body in a way that feels natural—not bulky, just shaped. As someone with a naturally lean frame, I wasn’t looking for drastic change—I just wanted more definition and fluidity, and Pilates gave me exactly that.
Another unexpected win? My mood. After a session, I feel lighter mentally—less anxious, my anxiety is lowered, things are more clear. There’s a strong mind-body connection that comes from this kind of workout, and it’s made a huge difference in how I show up in my day-to-day life, especially when juggling multiple creative roles.
One thing that really sets the tone for a good Pilates session is how I start my morning. I’ve found that fueling my body makes all the difference in how I move and focus. A go-to smoothie that’s light but energizing is this combo:
• Trader Joe’s Fruits & Greens Smoothie Blend
• Coconut milk (or almond milk if I want something lighter)
• A spoon of seamoss for minerals and gut health
• Plant-based protein powder for staying full and supporting muscle recovery
Sometimes I’ll add a little ginger, matcha powder or a squeeze of lime for that extra kick. It’s refreshing, easy on the stomach, and gives me the boost I need to show up on the reformer with intention. Hydration is also a must—especially since Pilates focuses on deep muscle engagement and core activation. I always keep water (sometimes with electrolytes) nearby and try to stretch a bit beforehand to warm up my body.
If you’re someone who struggles with motivation or just hasn’t found a workout that clicks, I seriously recommend trying Reformer Pilates. It might surprise you how much it does—inside and out. it’s an investment but what in life isn’t? Health is wealth, foreal!
Have you tried Pilates before? Or are you curious about starting? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear what movement works for you.
I didn't need a workout that wore me out- I needed one that brought me back to myselfAugustah Allen