University of Nottingham pioneers dedicated Reformer Pilates studio with Balanced Body®
The University of Nottingham has reinforced its position as a leader in university sport and wellbeing with the launch of a purpose-built Reformer Pilates studio at the David Ross Sports Village.
Fully equipped with Balanced Body Allegro 2 Reformers and Combo Chairs and supported by Balanced Body trained instructors, the studio represents a first for UK higher education and highlights the University’s commitment to innovation, inclusion and holistic health.
The studio was developed in response to rising demand for high-quality, accessible movement experiences and a desire to remain ahead of fitness trends.
“Our vision was to create a facility that bridges performance, rehabilitation and wellbeing. We identified a gap in our offer and saw an opportunity to deliver something genuinely sector-leading, supporting students, staff, athletes and the wider community. Reformer Pilates complements our physiotherapy services, athlete development programmes and sports injury clinic, strengthening our holistic approach to performance and recovery.”
Working closely with Balanced Body, the University designed a distinctive, premium space with bespoke flooring and visually striking wood panelling with a living-wall concept. “The studio’s purpose and design are unique in the education sector and set a benchmark for others to follow,” Martin adds.
Reformer Pilates has also become an important part of the University’s inclusion and disability support offer, providing adaptable movement options for a wide range of abilities. The studio supports the wider commercialisation strategy too, creating new income opportunities via classes, external partnerships and corporate wellness activity.
Balanced Body was chosen as equipment and education partner following an in-depth evaluation.
“Balanced Body stood out immediately. The equipment is beautifully designed, durable and versatile, and their team collaborated with us from the start, supporting studio layout, bespoke window frosting, on-site instructor training and education planning.”
The studio features 11 Allegro 2 Reformers with Towers and Plank Bars and five Combo Chairs, allowing delivery of group classes, specialist sessions and rehabilitation programmes. Balanced Body’s involvement extended to instructor training and course development to ensure long-term sustainability.
Both Group Exercise and physiotherapy teams completed bespoke training delivered on site by Balanced Body educators. This included the Group Reformer for Fitness Professionals programme taught by Educator Zoe Watson, and Pilates Training for Physiotherapists delivered by internationally respected educator Lindy Royer, PT. Zoe continues to mentor instructors during a limited timetable ahead of a full programme launch in early 2026. Meanwhile, physiotherapists have already embedded Pilates principles into athlete care and rehabilitation pathways.
“The education support has been exceptional. Zoe has given our instructors real confidence, and Lindy has inspired new approaches to rehabilitation and performance. The training has elevated what we can deliver and created real excitement across the team. It’s given us the foundations for long-term success as we work towards becoming an official Balanced Body training centre.”
“This project was about creating a model of best practice for university wellbeing. It’s been fantastic working with such a forward-thinking institution and seeing Reformer Pilates embraced as both a performance and therapeutic tool. We look forward to supporting the University as it works towards becoming an official Balanced Body education centre.”
The studio is now integrated into the Group Exercise programme with its own booking platform and pricing structure. Classes cater for all levels, supported by 1-to-1 sessions via the sports injury clinic and physiotherapy teams. Early engagement has been extremely positive, particularly among younger students and older adults.
Looking ahead, Phase Two will explore partnerships with professional sports teams, corporate wellness providers and NHS partners, alongside developing short courses and workshops. By creating this purpose-built Reformer Pilates studio and partnering with Balanced Body, the University of Nottingham has set a new standard in student and staff wellbeing and created a model other university may wish to follow.
For more information about Balanced Body studio design, equipment and education, visit: Pilates.com