Are You a [solidcore] Beginner? Here’s Where to Start
By [solidcore]
We all know the feeling: walking into a new class with butterflies in your stomach, wondering if everyone else but you knows what they’re doing.
Your first [solidcore] class doesn’t have to be intimidating – and we don’t want it to be. Whether you’re brand new to fitness, exploring low-impact strength training, or looking for a new challenge, [solidcore] offers a range of class formats designed to help you build strength and confidence, whatever your experience is.
In this guide, we’ll break down the best [solidcore] classes for beginners – including Starter50, Foundation50, and Signature50 – so you can make an informed decision and feel empowered and excited about your very first class.
What Is [solidcore]?
[solidcore] is a high-intensity, low-impact workout that uses slow, controlled resistance training on a custom reformer machine. Unlike traditional fitness classes, [solidcore] focuses on time under tension to target slow-twitch muscle fibers, helping you build muscle and improve muscular endurance.
Each class (typically 50 minutes, with some exceptions) challenges your full body with carefully programmed sequences that target your core, obliques, and specific lower and upper body muscles – all while keeping your muscles under tension for maximum results.
Why [solidcore] works (and why you’ll love it)
If you love the muscle-burning feeling of a great workout, [solidcore] is for you.
Here’s a breakdown of why [solidcore] is so effective:
1. Slow and Controlled Movement
At the core of every [solidcore] workout is slow, controlled resistance training. It isn’t about how many reps you can knock out quickly – it’s about how long you can keep your muscles under tension.
2. Low-Impact, High-Intensity Design
Unlike high-impact workouts that involve jumping or sprinting, [solidcore] is low-impact, which means it's gentler on your joints and ideal for people recovering from injury, postpartum clients, or anyone looking to build long-term strength. But don’t confuse “gentle” with “easy” – you’ll still get maximum results, without the wear and tear of traditional cardio or weight lifting.
3.
Every [solidcore] class is programmed to focus on muscle groups one at a time – this is done using our muscle focus of the day. While exercises may engage multiple muscle groups, the intent is to train the target muscle of the day to failure. This hyper-targeted training method builds strong, defined muscles.
4.
The machine you use in class is custom-designed to optimize resistance training. Multiple spring loads allow you to adjust resistance for your strength level.
5. Mental Toughness
Each class trains not only your body but your mental resilience – pushing yourself just a little harder than you thought. Clients often say [solidcore] gives them more confidence at work, in relationships, and in life in general.
Starter50: The best [solidcore] class for beginners
Great for: Complete beginners or those returning to fitness after time away
Starter50 is the most beginner-friendly [solidcore] class and the ideal starting point for those who are new to resistance training, unfamiliar with a reformer machine, or looking to ease into a new workout routine.
What to expect in Starter50:
A comprehensive machine tutorial before class starts
Slower transitions and more deliberate pacing
Programmed rest periods between muscle groups
Exercise demonstrations for each exercise performed
Why it works for beginners:
Starter50 is all about creating a welcoming environment where you can learn at your own pace. You’ll build a strong foundation in form and function, and gain confidence in using the machine – all while still getting a powerful, full-body workout. And you can be confident that everyone in the class is learning, just like you. We also keep the music lower than in other formats to more easily hear instruction from your coach.
Pro Tip: If you’ve never worked out on a reformer-style machine or feel nervous about trying [solidcore] for the first time, Starter50 is the way to go. Recommend taking this format until you feel comfortable moving on. There’s no right number of Starter50’s to take so listen to your body and your comfort level!
Foundation50: Refine Your Technique and Build Endurance
Great for: Clients who are ready to progress but still want support
Once you’ve taken a few Starter50 classes – or if you’re ready for more of a challenge – Foundation50 is your next best move. This class builds on the basics, focusing on the full range of motion of exercises, while introducing more intensity.
What to expect in Foundation50:
A short pre-class demo of the day’s key exercises
Full-body exercises targeting major muscle groups
Encouraged rest, but not programmed breaks seen in Starter50
Emphasis on proper form and full range of motion
Why it works for beginners:
Foundation50 bridges the gap between learning and leveling up. It’s perfect if you’re still fine-tuning your form but want to push yourself a bit further. You’ll learn to transition between exercises more fluidly while keeping your body safe and strong. There are also brighter lights and softer music, to help you focus on your coaches demonstrations and tips.
Pro Tip: While this format is less common, it is a great way to bridge between Starter50 and Signature50, especially if you’re still getting used to the intensity of slow, controlled movement. This class is not required to move onto a Signature50 class however!
Signature50: The Signature [solidcore] Workout
Great for: Clients who are confident in form and ready for intensity
Dim those lights and blast that music – Signature50 is the heart of the [solidcore] method. This class brings the heat with minimal breaks, quicker transitions, and a steady burn that will leave you feeling accomplished – and sore in the best way.
What to expect in Signature50:
A fast-paced, continuous workout with no programmed rest
You’ll be encouraged to remain in the exercises for as long as possible
Quicker transitions and fewer instructional pauses
A high-energy environment that gets you to feel those shakes
Why it works for seasoned beginners:
Once you’ve built a foundation and understand how to move safely and effectively on the machine, Signature50 gives you the ultimate challenge. You’ll push your strength, stability, and coordination to new heights.
Pro Tip: We typically recommend at least 3-5 Starter50 or Foundation50 classes before moving into Signature50. However, if you have athletic experience, you may be ready for Signature50 sooner.
How to prep for your first [solidcore] class
Arrive to the studio 10 minutes early for your first class. (doors open exactly 10 minutes in advanced)
Pack your gym bag with water, grippy socks (but totally okay to go barefoot), and a positive mindset.
When you arrive, you’ll access the studio through the [solidcore] app, or a digital key you’ll receive when you sign up for class.
Introduce yourself to the coach, and let them know about anything that could impact your workout, like current/prior injuries.
You can put your belongings either in provided lockers or in the “pit” below the machine
Bringing a small towel is a great way to maintain grip while sweating
While there are no showers in [solidcore] studios, restrooms are stocked with amenities to leave you feeling fresh post-class
If you want to do even more prep before your first class, get to know our machine with coach Dani. Or check out our directory of exercises. But don’t worry if you don’t – you’ll be in good hands whether you’ve done a lot of prep or none at all.
We’re more than a workout – we’re a [community]
No two [solidcore] classes are exactly the same. Each workout is thoughtfully designed to keep your muscles adapting. Whether you’re taking Starter50 or pushing yourself in Advanced50, the classes grow with you, and you can level up or down based on your experience, or even how you’re feeling that day. In addition to advanced formats, our classes cue spring loads based on experience to customize the intensity for each person.
But while no two classes are the same, and no two studios are the same, there is one thing that stays consistent: our [community]. There’s a reason [solidcore] devotees are so fiercely loyal – there’s something powerful about enduring the same challenge together and coming out stronger each class. Whether you're a seasoned athlete or someone who hasn't worked out in years, you're welcome here.
Come for the workout. Come back for the shakes. Stay for the people.