Have you ever wanted to try the famous TikTok exercise Reformer Pilates? Well, we like you were curious to see what all the fuss was about so we headed out to Soul Studio Pilates in Oranmore to join their class. (Spoiler: it's easier than it looks but wow what a work out!) Check out how we got on here…
Soul Studio Pilates offers expert-led, results-driven classes in a tranquil, design-led space. Located in the Oranmore Business Park, their classes blend strength, flexibility, mobility, and mindful movement to create one of Galway’s most sought-after Pilates experiences.
There’s something special about arriving at Soul Studio Pilates. From the second you arrive, the outside world fades away. Shoes come off at the door, candlelight flickers around the room, and calming tones paired with soft, tactile finishes instantly set the mood. It’s cosy, tranquil, and effortlessly aesthetic. This is the kind of space that feels as good as it looks, with plenty of photo-worthy corners but an atmosphere that invites you to truly switch off.
The class begins with intentional breathwork and a moment of grounding meditation. You’re encouraged to settle in, set an intention, and reconnect with yourself before the movement even begins. The instructor is approachable and reassuring, guiding you through every step so you never feel unsure or out of place.
The beauty of reformer Pilates at Soul Studio lies in its accessibility. No movement feels unachievable. The cues used in the class are simple yet effective such as, ‘imagine holding a small orange under your chin’ to find the right alignment, which makes even unfamiliar movements easy to understand. Every exercise can be tailored to suit your comfort level, whether you’re brand new or more experienced. If you’re looking for a challenge, you can deepen the pose. If your body needs something gentler, that option is always there. It’s about working with your body, not against it.
The movements are small and deliberate, designed to activate muscles you didn’t even realise you had. Using a range of equipment, from the reformer bench itself to dumbbells, straps, and weighted balls, each session builds strength, flexibility, and mobility in a way that feels controlled and purposeful. You might not leave drenched in sweat (...although we did) or gasping for air; instead, you’ll walk out feeling accomplished, and a bit stronger, a feeling that grows with every class you do. But yes, you will absolutely feel it the next day!
At Soul Studio Pilates classes run for approximately one hour and cater to all levels, sizes, and genders, with beginner-friendly foundations, advanced faster-paced sessions, and even men-only classes available. Every class they offer has been thoughtfully designed to nurture both body and mind, blending physical challenge with mindfulness in a truly holistic way.
Now after having taken part in a reformer Pilates class, it showed us that working out doesn’t have to be frantic and draining, and exercise can be restorative not just for your muscles, but for your mindset too.
If you’re looking to change up how you work out, or simply want to try the trend that has been filling your social media feed, the reformer Pilates classes at Soul Studio Pilates in Oranmore might just be your new favourite ritual - Eat. Sleep. Pilates. Repeat.
Find out more and book a reformer Pilates class at Soul Studio Pilates at soulstudiopilates.com.
All photos by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
