Review: new Pilates class at The Barns, Wellington Estate

The Barns on the Wellington Estate is just a short drive from Basingstoke, but surrounded by the Hampshire countryside, it gives a luxury retreat vibe upon arrival, offering members and guests the chance to escape from the business of everyday life for a little while.

Everything about the facility oozes luxury, from the landscaped outdoor courtyard area to the pristine studios and equipment.

I went along to try out the facility’s new reformer Pilates class, after The Barns purchased new beds to offer small classes for up to five people.

Billed as a space to reconnect, re-energise, and refine your movement, the sessions are designed to restore both body and mind.

Set within the peaceful surroundings of the wellbeing studio, there were beautiful views across the courtyard to inspire participants.

I’m a huge fan of yoga and have tried many different styles, but have never ventured into the world of Pilates, so I was excited to give it a try.

I wasn’t quite sure what to expect, and when I saw the reformer beds, I felt slightly apprehensive and intimidated, unsure that I would be able to grasp anything too complicated.

Thankfully, a lovely instructor was on hand to guide our small group through each move and show us exactly how to make the most of the beds to enjoy a full body stretch.

Reformer Pilates class at The Barns (Image: The Barns)

The 60-minute session included a variety of stretches and a personalised experience which ensured we all pushed our bodies to our own limit. She gently helped us build strength, find balance, and move with ease through each of the stretches, coming around to make minor adjustments to our positions or offer advice.

The beds are like nothing I’ve experienced before. Split in two, with adjustable resistance to enable us to individualise our session, they open and close with movement, encouraging you to really control the stretches slowly and gently and connect with your body.

Stirrups attached to the sides were used to put our feet in, enabling incredibly deep stretches using muscles I wasn’t even aware I had!

The FOLD reformer beds have been thoughtfully designed, made using sustainable Canadian maple and finished in vegan-friendly fabrics, offering comfort and precision for a full-body workout that builds core strength.

Reformer Pilates at The Barns (Image: The Barns)

The stretches burn while performed, but the pain wears off fast, leaving my body with the unusual combination of feeling stronger, taller, stretched, and relaxed. I was surprised by my body’s ability and flexibility, especially as this was my first experience of Pilates.

Given how deeply I stretched, I was surprised afterwards that the pain wore off quickly and didn’t leave any lasting aches or pain.

It’s easy to see how regular reformer Pilates would help build strength, improve flexibility, and enhance posture.

The classes cost £25 for non-members for 60 minutes, which seems reasonable given the luxury location and small class sizes.