Glow – Stretch & Infrared
The calm hour in your week: Glow – Stretch & Infrared is our recovery format. 50 minutes of guided stretching on the Reformer, under warm red light and near-infrared, in a group of no more than eight women.
Who is Glow for?
For everyone. Really – it is the only format for which you need no previous experience and from which Level 3 participants still take something home.
Glow makes particular sense if you sit a lot, if your neck and hips are tight after a week at the desk, or if you train intensely and want to give your muscles deliberate recovery.
Why stretch on the Reformer
On the mat you hold a stretch with muscle power. On the Reformer the carriage takes over that work: the springs carry your weight, guide the movement and let you sink into a position you could not hold as relaxed on your own.
The result is a stretch in which the muscles really let go – instead of holding against it. Guided, safe and deeper than you would get on the mat.
How a class runs
We begin lying down, with breathing and a few minutes under the panel. Then we work through the body: hamstrings, hip flexors, chest and shoulders, lateral chain. Every position is held for a long time – sometimes over a minute – because connective tissue needs time.
In between there is gentle mobilisation of the spine via the footbar and the straps. At the end you lie still for a few minutes under the panel. Most participants say that is the best part.
Red light and near-infrared – the centre here
In all our classes the panel runs alongside. In Glow it is not a side effect, but the core of the format.
Visible red light (around 630–660 nm) works mainly in the upper layers of the skin. Near-infrared (around 800–850 nm) is invisible and penetrates deeper – into muscle and connective tissue. Together they can support circulation, tissue metabolism and recovery. In a class where you are working on recovery anyway, that fits.
More on our page Reformer Pilates with red light.
What you get out of it
- More mobility. Regular guided stretching changes your range of motion – noticeably within a few weeks.
- Less tension. Neck, shoulders and hips get the length back that a desk takes from them.
- Better recovery. If you train intensely, Glow is the session that makes the next hard one possible.
- Fifty quiet minutes. No phone, no to-do list. For many, that alone is the reason.
What to bring
Comfortable sportswear and non-slip grip socks. A warm layer for the calm finish is nice but not necessary – the studio is warm.
Frequently asked questions about Glow – Stretch & Infrared
Is Glow a beginners’ class?
It is not a level class. You can come as a beginner, but you won’t learn Reformer technique here – that is what RedGlow Foundation is for.
Is it strenuous?
Not in the sense of pulse and sweat. Some stretch positions are intense nonetheless – stretching may pull, but never sting. Tell your trainer and she will adapt it.
How often should I do Glow?
Once a week as a fixed appointment works well for most, alongside one or two more intense sessions.
Can I book Glow if I have back problems?
Many participants do exactly that. Talk to your trainer beforehand and, if you are under treatment, to your doctor. See also Reformer Pilates for back pain.
What does a class cost?
Single booking or 5, 10 and 20 class cards for all formats. Current prices in the timetable.