Q&A with Lorraine Young: Championing Reformer Pilates with Ethics Leisure

Tell us about yourself. I’ve been immersed in the fitness industry for over 35 years. I started as a gym instructor, then moved on to teaching classes and personal training. After about five years, I felt the need for a new challenge, so I transitioned into management. I became part of the Edinburgh Leisure Trust as the Head of Health and Fitness, overseeing 17 venues and managing gym operations, sales, and fitness programs. During my time there, I was introduced to Les Mills programs, and could see its potential in raising class attendance and diversity of the programming. I managed to gradually expand from 200 classes a week to an impressive 800.

In 2008, I was honoured with the Fitness Professional of the Year Award at the UKactive
Flame Awards, presented by James Cracknell and Andy Jackson. I later joined Les Mills as a key account manager for Scotland and Ireland, a role I held for five years before moving to Spain with my family. There, I successfully ran a studio with 10 instructors for three years before returning to Scotland due to family commitments. My daughter kindly took over the classes while I was away, and when I came back, I resumed teaching.

How did you get into Pilates? I found Pilates after slipping two discs in my back and facing
surgery. My surgeon advised me to try Pilates for three months before making any decisions
about surgery. To my surprise, Pilates transformed my health, and I no longer needed the operation.

After experiencing the benefits firsthand, I knew I wanted to become a Pilates
instructor. The rehabilitation potential of Pilates is incredible, and I saw an opportunity to
teach others as well, especially with the growing interest in Pilates and yoga as people age.

What are you focused on now? I’m passionate about training Pilates instructors in both
reformer and mat-based methods. I currently deliver training through Drummond Education.
Beyond that, I also lead Pilates retreats in Spain. We recently returned from a retreat at
Karmivida, a serene villa in Benissa an hour away from Alicante. The retreats are all about
relaxation and rejuvenation, combining Pilates, yoga, mountain walks, and even aerial yoga.
We already have two retreats lined up for next year in May and September due to popular
demand.

I also occasionally consult in the fitness industry, helping businesses elevate their Pilates
offerings.

Why did you choose to support Ethics Leisure? I first connected with Ethics Leisure
while trying to source a cable for some fitness equipment. A colleague recommended I reach
out to Andy Gill, and that’s how it all began. After visiting their base in Macclesfield and discussing the Reformer Pilates range, I saw the immense potential of the Total Gym products. They’re not just for Pilates – they offer versatility for strength training, yoga, and rehabilitation. I was so impressed by the product and excited to help raise awareness about it, particularly in Scotland where the concept is still developing.

How do you see the landscape for reformer Pilates evolving over the next five years? In Scotland, I think it will be a gradual shift. Pilates is gaining traction, but reformer studios will take time to establish credibility and recognition. The challenge lies in penetrating large trusts and getting their staff to embrace the benefits of reformer Pilates. I’ve seen growing interest at events like the Scottish Leisure Network, but change doesn’t happen overnight.

Why should facilities offer Reformer Pilates classes? If you enjoy mat Pilates, you’ll love reformer Pilates. It offers a whole new dimension, especially when it comes to strength training and rehabilitation. The Total Gym range provides support for those dealing with injuries or physical limitations, allowing for progressions without the strain of body weight. One of the additional benefits is that the machine can be easily folded away, ideal for studios with space limitations. Being able to combine reformer and mat Pilates creates a holistic experience that caters to a wide range of clients. Whether it’s younger groups enjoying dynamic, large classes, or older participants looking for something more intimate and restorative, reformer Pilates is a great addition.

My advice? Come and try it for yourself!