Perimenopause and menopause bring real, well-documented changes – shifting hormones affect bone density, muscle mass, joint comfort and sleep, and a lot of women tell us their usual exercise routine suddenly doesn't feel right anymore. As a women's-only studio, it's a conversation we have often at KY Pilates, and it's worth being specific about how Reformer Pilates actually fits in.
A note before anything else
This is general information, not medical advice tailored to you. Perimenopause and menopause affect everyone differently, and your GP is the right person to advise on anything specific to your health, medication, or symptoms. As always, let your instructor know about any relevant medical conditions before class so they can adjust accordingly.
Why low-impact, resistance-based training fits well
Declining oestrogen is linked to reduced bone density and muscle mass during and after menopause, which is part of why resistance training generally becomes more important, not less, during this stage of life. Reformer Pilates provides adjustable resistance through the springs without the joint impact of running or high-impact classes – relevant if joint discomfort has become more noticeable, which is a common perimenopausal symptom.
Core strength and everyday function
Core and pelvic floor strength both matter more through this transition, and both are built into nearly every Reformer exercise by default, rather than needing to be added as a separate routine. For a lot of members, that shows up as less lower-back discomfort and better everyday stability, alongside the strength work itself.
Why some members prefer training here specifically
Small classes capped at 10 women mean instructors can adjust intensity individually rather than running one pace for the whole room – relevant on days when energy or joint comfort varies more than usual. And for some members, training in a women's-only space simply feels more comfortable for a stage of life that can already feel like it comes with enough to navigate.
Getting started
If you're new to Reformer Pilates and navigating perimenopause or menopause, there's no need to arrive with prior Pilates experience – instructors build modifications into your first few classes regardless. The Intro Trio (3 classes for £49) is a low-commitment way to see how it feels for you specifically.
See our class schedule or book your first class at KY Pilates in Shoreditch.
