How to Choose the Right Pilates Level for You (Level 1, 2, 3…)

Starting your Pilates journey is an exciting step toward building a stronger, more aligned, and more resilient body. Yet, standing before a class schedule that lists Level 1, Level 2, Level 3, and various specialised names can often leave you wondering: "How do I choose the right starting point?"

At Momax Pilates am Roecklplatz in Munich, we emphasize that the level of a class is not a measure of your general fitness or athletic ability. It is, instead, a measure of your familiarity with the Pilates principles, the Reformer equipment, and your mastery of foundational movements. Rushing to a higher level before you’ve built a solid base will only hinder your progression and risk poor form.

This guide will demystify the Pilates level system, focusing on what each stage truly requires, and help you confidently select the the Right Pilates Level class—whether it’s a focused Reformer pilates (level 1) or the dynamic challenge of Reformer peak control (level 3).

The Core Principle: Pilates Levels Measure Mastery, Not Fitness

Unlike traditional fitness, where progression is often defined by increasing weight or repetition count, Pilates progression is defined by three factors: precision, stamina, and the complexity of movement. The goal is always to improve the quality of the movement, not simply the quantity.

Why Experience Trumps Athletics

It is a common sight in our studios: a seasoned athlete or dancer discovers that a Level 1 Pilates class is incredibly challenging. Why? Because Pilates demands a deep connection to the Powerhouse (core) and precise body awareness—skills that are not always developed in high-impact or strength-based training.

A higher level means:

Fewer verbal cues from the instructor.
Faster transitions between exercises, challenging your flow and control.
More complex movement patterns (combining planes of motion, increased rotation, smaller base of support).

If you are new to the Reformer or the core principles of Pilates (Centering, Control, Concentration, Precision, Breath, Flow), your best starting point is always the Foundation level, regardless of how many marathons you have run.

The Three Pillars of Progression: Form, Flow, and Stamina

Pilates progression can be mapped across these three pillars, which dictate the jump from one level to the next:

Form & Alignment (Level 1 Focus): Can you maintain a neutral spine, correctly engage your deep abdominal muscles, and isolate the movement to the intended joint?
Flow & Precision (Level 2 Focus): Can you move smoothly and intentionally between exercises without stopping, adjusting, or losing your form, often utilizing longer levers or a quicker pace?
Stamina & Control (Level 3 Focus): Can you sustain complex movements and rapid transitions for the duration of the class, challenging your balance and stability with advanced repertoire?

Decoding the Momax Pilates Level System

At Momax Pilates Roecklplatz, our class schedule is designed to offer specialized training while adhering to the classic progression model. Here is a breakdown of what to expect at each stage:

Level 1: Foundation and Precision (The Essential Start)

Primary Goal: To establish a profound understanding of the core Pilates principles and safe operation of the Reformer machine.

Who it’s for: Complete beginners, anyone returning from injury or a long break, or those who want to refine their absolute basics.
What you will learn: How to adjust the springs, proper foot placement on the footbar, activating the deep core (Rumpfstärke), and the names of the fundamental exercises (e.g., Footwork, The Hundred).
Class Structure: The pace is slower, instruction is detailed, and there is maximum emphasis on form correction.

Momax Class to Start With: Our Reformer pilates (level 1) class is your non-negotiable gateway. We also offer Reformer all levels and Reformer core (all levels), which are suitable if you have some experience but still prefer detailed guidance and modifications.

Level 2: Challenging the Core (Building Strength and Pace)

Primary Goal: To integrate the foundational principles into more challenging, compound movements that build endurance and balance.

Who it’s for: Clients who have consistently attended Level 1 classes (we suggest a minimum of 10-15 sessions) and can perform the basic repertoire with minimal correction.
What you will learn: New movements that incorporate spinal articulation, light rotation, single-leg balancing, and more arm-work (weight-bearing). The springs may be adjusted to both lighter and heavier tensions to increase challenge.
Class Structure: The pace speeds up noticeably. Transitions are quicker, and the instructor gives fewer, more sophisticated cues, assuming students know the basic setup.

Momax Classes at this Level: Look for our specialized intermediate classes, such as Reformer glutes/things/arms (level 2), Reformer athletic (level 2), and HIIT Reformer (level 2). These classes layer higher intensity and complexity onto your established foundation.

Level 3: Peak Control and Dynamic Flow (Mastery)

Primary Goal: To execute the most challenging and complex choreography with flawless form, endurance, and seamless transitions.

Who it’s for: Long-term practitioners who have achieved complete mastery of the Level 1 and 2 repertoire, possess deep body awareness, and have significant core stamina.
What you will learn: Advanced repertoire requiring high levels of coordination, long levers, inverted positions, and exercises that truly defy gravity and stability.
Class Structure: The entire session is often performed as a seamless, flowing workout—a moving meditation where one exercise immediately transitions into the next. The focus is on increasing challenge and stamina.

Momax Class for Mastery: Our Reformer peak control (level 3) class is reserved for those who are ready to push their precision, focus, and physical endurance to the limit.

How to Assess Your Readiness to Move Up to the Right Pilates Level

Deciding when to transition to a higher level is a personal decision, but it should be rooted in a genuine assessment of your control, not an arbitrary time limit. Ask yourself these critical questions:

Readiness Check	Level 1: Foundation	Level 2: Progression
Control	Can I maintain a steady, non-wobbling carriage during Footwork?	Can I perform the entire Footwork series without micro-adjustments or losing my Rumpfstärke?
Form	Do I know when my low back is arching, and can I self-correct?	Can I hold a challenging plank/long stretch position for 30 seconds with perfect form?
Pace	Do I need the instructor to constantly remind me of the spring settings?	Can I change my spring settings and move to the next exercise before the instructor finishes the instruction?
Knowledge	Do I still need to watch the instructor perform the movement?	Do I know the name and general setup of most fundamental exercises?

If you answer "Yes" to the questions in the Progression column, you are likely ready to sample a Level 2 class.

If you are still unsure, our Reformer all levels classes serve as the perfect bridge. They offer the opportunity to practice challenging movements but with modifications and a flexible pace that suits both beginners and intermediates.

Take Control of Your Practice at Pilates Roecklplatz

Pilates is a lifetime practice of self-discovery, control, and constant refinement. Our team, led by Monica Gomis, is committed to providing innovative, safe, and expert-led training, ensuring every client finds the perfect balance of support and challenge.

Don't let the numbers intimidate you. Choose the level that allows you to execute the work with the highest degree of concentration and control. That is where the real, transformative strength of Pilates happens.

👉 Ready to find your perfect level? Visit the Momax Pilates Roecklplatz schedule and book your introductory or Level 1 Reformer class today!