BetsyD,

Welcome to the wold of Pilate's!

I have been doing Pilate's with a personal trainer after being introduced to it over 6 months ago and totally love it. It works you from the core rather than from external muscles and thus is a very different kind of workout. It is also a very balanced total body workout that stretches the opposite muscles at the same time. CB was mostly correct with his assessment but there is no resistance about the reformer. The machine actually works in reverse most times and assists you in the exercise rather that providing resistance. Most times more spring pressure results in an easier workout but some exercises the springs do make it harder. Combining the mat and reformer exercises results in a very good routine and if you add the Pilate's chair to the equation you are in for some real pain and torture! Wait till you start doing "short-spine" and "semi-circles". I have really learned that form, proper breathing and concentration are critical to a truly great Pilate's workout. My g/f has a reformer made by Balanced Body as well as the rings, mats and gym ball. We visit the trainer once a week for an hour and do about 4 30 minute workouts a week at home together during the week. If you can get personal 1 on 1 training as opposed to a class with others I would really recommend it as you will be able to get better attention on doing the exercises correctly and focus better.

Keep it up!!!