by One Playground
The opening of The Urban Oasis, a new wellness destination nestled in the heart of Surry Hills, One Playground is introducing a transformative new way to experience Reformer Pilates: Semi-Private classes.
This brand-new offering emphasises personalised attention, accountability and outcome-based programming, making it distinct from the larger, more music-driven group classes.
But what exactly is Semi-Private Reformer Pilates, and why is it different from traditional group classes? Let’s dive in to see what makes this offering a game-changer in your fitness journey.
What is Semi-Private Reformer Pilates?
Semi-Private Reformer Pilates on the surface is similar to a regular group Reformer Pilates class where a group of individuals climb onto the Reformer Pilates bed for what can be quite a humbling experience. Participants use the reformer machine for a series of exercises that challenge core stability, strength, flexibility, and posture.
Where it stands out, however, is in the format: Semi-Private sessions are capped at 5-8 participants and run consistently with the same group each week. This smaller, consistent setup fosters deeper connections between trainers and attendees, allowing for a high degree of personalisation, progression, and community support. The classes will follow a specific program that builds week on week to ensure progressive overload and the development of skills in a linear and effective manner.
What are the benefits of Semi-Private Reformer Pilates?
This format allows for more individualised attention and personalised instruction compared to larger group settings of up to 20 per class, which adds additional benefits to the already lengthy list of Reformer benefits.
This approach is perfect for members who seek a more tailored workout experience, allowing for more precise instruction and better alignment with individual goals. The smaller group setting enhances the ability to focus on form and technique, ensuring that each participant benefits fully from the session.
Six benefits of semi-private classes
1. Faster, longer-lasting results
With a structured, outcome-focused program, Semi-Private Pilates at One Playground ensures a weekly progression that supports targeted development. This continuous approach leads to measurable gains in strength, flexibility, and alignment over time.
2. High-quality, personalised attention
With a lower instructor-to-participant ratio, attendees benefit from expert guidance and customised feedback creating a luxurious and attentive experience that larger classes cannot offer. By meeting with the same instructor each week, they get to know your history, goals and areas for improvement, helping them to tailor a program that is relevant to you and your goals.
3. Specialised programming
Semi-private sessions may incorporate unique techniques, specialised equipment, or advanced programming that enhances the overall workout experience. You also have the option to sign up for targeted programs such as pre and post-natal, ensuring your workout is suitable for both your current fitness state and future goals.
4. Supportive environment
The smaller group size consisting of the same people each week fosters a sense of community and support among participants, contributing to an enriching and enjoyable fitness journey.
5. Accountability
Proactively signing up for a set number of weeks within your program helps to maintain consistency with class attendance, ensuring you stay on track towards your goals.
6. Convenient booking
By signing up for a Semi-Private Program, you attend the same class times each week meaning no more rushing to book a slot. Your space is reserved for every class, at a time in the week that works with your schedule.
What can you expect from Semi-Private at One Playground?
The Urban Oasis will feature the first Semi-Private Reformer Pilates studio at One Playground, a space home only to the smaller group classes.
CEO and Co-Founder Justin Ashely commented on the decision to bring Semi-Private to the One Playground offering:
“Semi-Private is here to bridge the gap between 1-1 and large group settings. Reformer Pilates is a fantastic form of exercise but the reality is, no matter how excellent the classes are, if you attend different classes with different teachers, you are less likely to see the progressive overload and therefore results as you would with a more targeted approach.
“At the same time, we understand that 1-1 can be cost-prohibitive, especially when doing so on a regular basis. Therefore, we have designed something that has the benefits of 1-1 attention, without the cost, paying a valuable $35 per class for Semi-Private at One Playground vs $70 – $150+ a fully personal session might cost.
“We’re excited to see the development of this offering with the opening of the Merrylands location in early 2025”.
Programs will run for eight weeks and span across six modalities:
- Centre: Intensively strengthens your abdominals, obliques, and lower back. With deep core activation, it builds endurance, improves balance, and refines posture. Tailored for all levels, this class delivers targeted results for a strong, stable core over 8 weeks.
- Build: This strength-focused session incorporates heavier weights, advanced springs, and plank bars to challenge your muscles through slow, controlled movements for maximum impact. It’s an ideal way to build strength and elevate your fitness routine, perfect for those looking to push their limits and enhance their overall power and endurance.
- Align: A balanced class that emphasises alignment, stability, and core strength. With weighted Pilates poles, you’ll refine posture, improve balance, and strengthen supporting muscles for better performance and injury prevention.
- Tone: A full-body workout that targets every major muscle group in each session. Through a 360-degree flow, members will engage their entire body using lighter weights, ring, ball, and box for a balanced and effective workout. Designed to boost strength, flexibility, and muscle definition.
- Prenatal: Designed to support and strengthen your body during pregnancy. This gentle workout focuses on core stability, alignment, and posture, helping to ease discomfort and improve mobility.
- Postnatal: designed to restore core strength, improve alignment, and support recovery after childbirth. This gentle yet effective session focuses on rebuilding stability, strengthening pelvic floor muscles, and enhancing posture.
At the end of the eight weeks, participants are encouraged to return to continue their progression in their next block of classes.
Should I do Semi-Private or Group Reformer Pilates?
Both Semi-Private and Group Reformer Pilates have incredible benefits and it can be down to personal preference or goals which the member prefers to attend.
Group Training: Ideal for those seeking affordability and flexibility. Group classes have a dynamic energy and accommodate varying schedules, perfect for those who enjoy combining Pilates with other workout styles.
Semi-Private: Perfect for those desiring personalised attention, a clear path for progression, and a supportive community atmosphere. The smaller class size allows for a tailored experience that ensures effective results over time.
How can I sign up?
The Urban Oasis is launching soon, and we’ll be releasing all the details on how to secure your spot in our Semi-Private Reformer Pilates classes. Stay tuned for more information, and get ready to experience a new level of wellness and community at One Playground’s latest location.
