BY CARINE AND LIA FROM NUBODI PILATES
IN 2025, Reformer Pilates has become a booming industry. All the celebrities — from Harry Styles to Adele — are doing it. Why? Because it delivers results you can see, feel, and live in. With Pilates, healthy movement becomes part of your DNA.
But with all the buzz, it can be overwhelming to know where to go and what to look out for. That’s why Carine and Lia are sharing their 10+ years of expertise with the Henley community.
What is Pilates & Reformer Pilates?
Pilates is a mind–body movement method focused on strength, control, mobility, and breath. While Pilates can be practised on everything from the Mat to the Cadillac, Reformer Pilates has really taken centre stage in studios worldwide. Its intuitive design allows every exercise to be tailored to all levels, helping to strengthen, tone, and improve flexibility.
The Benefits, Straight From Our Clients:
Our clients often describe noticeable and lasting results through Pilates at Nubodi. Most celebrate how their strength and posture have improved, while others are so grateful for the great support in injury rehabilitation. One very special client of eight years shared, “My body has completely changed, and I have a confidence I never had before. I’m 74 and recently had major surgery. In the week before my operation, I went to class three times — and my recovery was incredible. The doctors said it was all thanks to my fitness.” With consistency, regular classes build strength, flexibility, mobility, and overall wellbeing, leaving clients feeling “stronger and fitter” than they have in many years!
‘The best studios offer clear cueing, class levels, and personalised guidance, adapting exercises to your body and your needs’
How you should feel after a ‘proper’ Pilates class?
With the abundant growth of Pilates, it’s really important to ground yourself in the Pilates method rather than a fitness class called “Pilates.” Your Pilates class shouldn’t feel frantic or confusing. Your mind should be meditative, and your body intelligently challenged. When leaving a class, you should feel balanced, energised, and more connected to your body — not broken. While muscle soreness may still occur, you shouldn’t feel wiped out or exhausted for days.
Pilates has a deep set of principles and an entire philosophy behind it. The main thing is the connection you have to your body. Movement control and precision become part of your DNA. Always aim to feel lifted and aligned rather than deflated and exhausted.
What to Look for When Choosing Your Pilates Studio:
When choosing a studio, it’s important to look for qualified teachers with internationally recognised certifications who really understand anatomy, bio-mechanics, and safe progression. The best studios offer clear cueing, class levels, and personalised guidance, adapting exercises to your body and your needs. At Nubodi Pilates, our nearly 10-year history reflects our commitment to excellence and the trust of our clients. Every teacher meets our high standards, and our clean, supportive, welcoming space ensures you’re in expert hands. You’ll never feel lost, rushed, or left behind — each session is designed to leave you feeling confident, challenged, and nurtured from the moment you arrive.
Who is Nubodi Pilates?
Nestled in the heart of Henley-on-Thames, Nubodi Pilates is a boutique Reformer Pilates studio founded by Carine Cowley and her daughter Lia. Together, they deliver world-class Reformer Pilates in a welcoming, nurturing environment for all abilities, led by highly qualified teachers trained through STOTT Pilates and the London Pilates Academy. They’re ready to welcome you into the studio in the New Year.