Private Pilates vs. Group Reformer Classes: Which Is Right for You?
Thinking about starting Pilates? Or maybe you've been taking reformer classes for a while and are wondering whether private sessions would be worth exploring.
Both private Pilates and small group reformer classes can help you build strength, improve flexibility, develop better body awareness, and move with greater confidence. But they offer different experiences, and choosing the right one depends on your goals, preferences, and individual needs.
The biggest difference between private Pilates and traditional group reformer classes is the level of individual attention and customization. Private Pilates provides one-on-one instruction tailored entirely to you, while group classes typically follow a shared workout format.
At Renegade Pilates in Miami, we do things differently. Our reformer classes are limited to eight participants, but small class size is only part of the equation. We personalize exercises, resistance, and modifications/progressions for individual clients within the group setting. You get the energy of a group workout without being expected to perform every exercise exactly like everyone else.
Here's how to decide which approach is right for you.
Private Pilates vs. Group Reformer Classes: At a Glance
Small Group Reformer Pilates Classes at Renegade
Class size: Maximum of 8 participants
Instruction: Individualized guidance, modifications, and progressions within a group setting
Equipment: Primarily the Pilates reformer
Workout format: A shared class experience with exercises adapted to individual needs, abilities, and goals
Best for: Consistency, motivation, group energy, and personalized instruction in a small group environment
Footwork on the Pilates chair
Private Pilates Sessions
Class size: One-on-one instruction
Instruction: An entirely customized session with your instructor's undivided attention
Equipment: Reformer, Cadillac, Pilates Chair, and other specialized equipment
Workout format: A complete session designed around your specific goals, abilities, and individual needs
Best for: Focused progress, specific movement goals, individual attention, pre and postnatal, and working around physical limitations
“The bottom line: Both options offer personalized instruction at Renegade Pilates. The difference is that private sessions are designed entirely around one person, while our group classes provide individual customization within a shared workout.”
What Makes Renegade's Group Reformer Classes Different?
There's something motivating about working out with other people. Group classes offer structure, energy, and a shared experience that can make Pilates an enjoyable part of your weekly routine.
But not all group Pilates classes are created equal.
Many group fitness classes are organized around a predetermined routine, with participants generally following the same sequence of exercises. While modifications may be offered, the focus is often on keeping the entire group moving through the same workout.
At Renegade Pilates, personalization isn't an occasional modification or progression. It's part of how we teach every class.
Our instructors pay attention to how each person moves and make adjustments based on individual strength, mobility, experience, and physical considerations.
That might mean changing spring resistance, adjusting range of motion, offering an alternative exercise, or introducing a more challenging progression for someone who's ready.
Two clients working side by side may be doing different variations of the same exercise, each appropriate for their individual needs.
It's an approach that allows beginners and experienced Pilates enthusiasts to participate in the same class while working at their own levels.
Everyone takes the class together. Not everyone has to do the exact same workout.
Small group reformer classes at Renegade may be an excellent choice if you:
Enjoy the energy and motivation of a group setting.
Want personalized instruction without booking a private session.
Appreciate having exercises adjusted to your abilities and goals.
Want a structured workout you can attend consistently.
Are looking to build strength, improve mobility, and develop your Pilates practice over time.
And yes, beginners are welcome. You don't need to be experienced, exceptionally fit, or particularly flexible to get started.
Explore our Reformer Pilates Classes in Miami to learn more about our approach.
What Makes Private Pilates Different?
If Renegade already personalizes its group classes, why choose a private session?
Because private Pilates takes individualization a step further.
Instead of participating in a shared class format, your entire session is designed around you—from the first exercise to the last.
Your instructor can devote the full session to your movement patterns, experience, goals, and individual limitations, adjusting exercises, resistance, range of motion, pace, and progression as needed.
Private sessions also allow you to explore equipment beyond the reformer.
At Renegade Pilates, private clients may work on the Reformer, Cadillac, Pilates Chair, and other specialized equipment, creating additional opportunities to customize the workout.
Private Pilates may be especially valuable if you:
Have specific strength, mobility, or performance goals.
Are returning to exercise after an injury or surgery and have been cleared for activity.
Want focused attention on alignment, technique, and movement quality.
Prefer a quieter, one-on-one training environment.
Want to develop the strength and control needed for more challenging exercises.
Have physical limitations that benefit from a highly individualized approach.
And private Pilates isn't just for beginners. Experienced Pilates enthusiasts and athletes can benefit from individual instruction, too.
Learn more about our Private Pilates Sessions in Miami.
Do You Need Private Pilates Before Joining a Group Class?
Not necessarily.
Some people feel comfortable starting directly in one of Renegade's small group reformer classes, particularly because our instructors can adapt exercises to different levels of experience.
Others prefer a few private sessions to become familiar with the equipment, learn foundational movements, and build confidence before joining a group.
Neither approach is inherently better.
At Renegade Pilates, we believe the decision should reflect the individual—not an arbitrary rule about how many sessions someone needs before joining a class.
Can You Combine Private Pilates With Group Classes?
Absolutely. In fact, combining the two can be a great way to develop your practice.
For example, you might attend small group reformer Pilates classes regularly while scheduling occasional private sessions to work on a specific goal, refine your technique, or address an area where you need additional guidance.
Others prefer ongoing private sessions as their primary form of Pilates.
The right combination is the one that supports your goals, works with your schedule, and allows you to stay consistent.
Is Private Pilates Worth the Additional Investment?
Private Pilates typically costs more per session because you're receiving an instructor's undivided attention and a workout customized specifically for you.
For someone with particular movement goals, physical limitations, or a preference for individual instruction, that additional investment is absolutely worthwhile.
However, you don't necessarily need private sessions to receive personalized Pilates instruction.
At Renegade, our small group classes are designed to provide individual attention and exercise customization within a group environment. For many clients, that offers an excellent balance of personalization, motivation, and value.
The best choice isn't necessarily the lowest price or the most expensive session. It's the experience that best supports your goals and encourages you to keep showing up.
So, Which Pilates Option Is Right for You?
Ultimately, Pilates should adapt to the person practicing it—not the other way around.
At Renegade Pilates, our philosophy is simple:
The client sets the goal. Pilates is the tool. The teacher is the guide.
That philosophy applies to every client, whether they're attending a group class or working privately with an instructor.
The format may change, but our commitment to personalized instruction doesn't.
Whether you choose small group reformer classes, private Pilates, or a combination of both, our goal is to help you move better, become stronger, and get more from your Pilates practice.
Ready to Get Started?
Renegade Pilates offers personalized Pilates instruction in Miami, conveniently located near Miami Shores, North Bay Village, and El Portal, with free on-site parking.
New to Renegade? Explore our introductory offers:
3 Private Pilates Sessions — $285
Experience one-on-one Pilates instruction tailored entirely to your goals.
5 Small Group Reformer Classes — $115
Experience our signature approach to personalized group Pilates, with classes limited to eight participants and exercises adapted to individual needs.
Explore Our Pilates Pricing & New Client Offers
Not sure where to start? Contact us to schedule a complimentary Pilates consultation, and we'll help you choose the option that fits your needs.