Matt Thacker
Pilates is continuing to grow across the UK, and it’s easy to see why. The physical strength, the mental clarity and the balance it restores. The way it challenges and supports your body at the same time. It’s a form of movement that leaves you feeling energised. And now, there is a new chapter in the Pilates world – Tower Pilates!
Virgin Active Chiswick Riverside Club invited me to try their brand new Tower Pilates session and wow! This wasn’t just another class; this was an unforgettable experience.
Tower Pilates uses a vertical frame of springs, bars and straps to create controlled resistance, enhancing strength, stability, flexibility and posture. A dynamic evolution of Reformer Pilates, it challenges your body through unique lines of pull, delivering full body results while gently building strength, mobility and precision.
At first glance, the frame looks intimidating. Chains, bars and springs. It looks serious. But the moment you step onto the elevated mat, something changes. You feel focused; it becomes your own space, your own zone.
The session was led by specialist instructor Lydia Melmeth (@lydia_melmeth), who was simply outstanding. She was extremely clear, articulate and endlessly motivating. From the very start, she helped everyone get fully locked in. She guided us through a full body flow that activated core, legs, arms, posture, balance and flexibility.
Beginner or advanced, Lydia made everyone feel comfortable, supported and genuinely seen. By the end, the whole class was glowing, clear-headed and smiling.
Taking part were many inspiring people, including the incredible Georgia Jones – model, content creator and host of Mum’s The Word podcast. Speaking with her beforehand, she shared that she had never tried Tower Pilates and was genuinely excited to step into something new.
After the session, her reaction said it all. She was glowing and full of praise for the experience. You can follow her journey at @thegeorgiaedit.
One of the greatest things about the class was that it brought together people from the Pilates world and completely outside of it. First time participant, not only to Tower Pilates but to Pilates entirely was Aaron Kempster, who shared his experience:
“When I stepped into the studio, I didn’t know what I’d signed up for. The tower is quite daunting if you’ve not seen one before. However, after being eased in by the fantastic instructor, the session flew by and it was amazing how many different ways we could utilise the tower and its many capabilities.
I’m always up for trying new things when it comes to physical activity and it was great fun. I would definitely do it again as it worked muscles that I most definitely don’t engage in my busy day-to-day life as a Dad of two, soon to be three!”
It was a powerful reminder that it doesn’t matter where you are on your Pilates journey; the benefits speak for themselves.
The Benefits of Tower:
Tower Pilates improves the mind-body connection, posture, core strength, joint mobility and spinal articulation, all in a low-impact format. Independent springs help identify and correct imbalances, while the unique line of pull expands exercise variety and range of motion.
The Difference to Reformer:
Unlike the moving Reformer, the Tower uses a fixed mat with a vertical frame and independent springs. The resistance feels heavier, the pull is unique and exercises focus on lengthening away from the springs.
As for Virgin Active Chiswick Riverside, it’s a true fitness and wellbeing sanctuary where luxury meets performance. With padel and tennis courts, two swimming pools and a stunning gym with recovery zones – every space is designed to elevate your fitness.
Unlimited classes are included, from Lift Club to Reformer Pilates and Sound Bath. Refuel at Kauai with absolutely delicious, nutrient-packed meals and smoothies to keep you going. Chill in the peaceful co-working lounge with free WiFi, unwind in the spa and enjoy expert one-to-one personal training support. And now, you can experience the club’s newest class – Tower Pilates.
A Tower Pilates session doesn’t just work your body, it sharpens your mind, energises your muscles and leaves you feeling unstoppable.
