Choosing your first class

ORVESSA has five class formats. Three of them are open to beginners: Reformer Foundations, Mat Control and Mobility. Each one is a sensible first class. The right choice depends on what you want to learn first.

If you want to learn the reformer

Reformer Foundations is the class that teaches the reformer from the start. The instructor shows you how to set the springs, the footbar and the headrest before the first exercise, and explains each exercise before you try it. When you can set up without a demonstration, Reformer Flow is the next step.

If you would like to start on a mat

Mat Control works through classical mat exercises with a ring and a soft ball. Most exercises come in a simpler and a harder version, so people at different levels share the room. It suits you if you would like to learn the basic positions on equipment that stays still.

If you want a slower class

Mobility is slow, with no jumping and nothing fast. You move the spine, hips and shoulders through their range with a foam roller and a strap, and finish with a longer stretch. Some people take it as a first class, others on a rest day from other training.

Before the class

• Book the class in the member app and arrive a few minutes early.
• Tell the instructor it is your first class, and mention anything that affects how you move.
• Bring water and wear clothes you can move in. Grip socks stop your feet slipping on the reformer.

If you are unsure, start from the level. Every class page says who the class suits, and the schedule can be filtered by level.