If you're curious about all the Solidcore hype but feeling a little intimidated by the idea of stepping into a dark, blue-lit studio with thumping music and a Pilates reformer machine staring you down—don’t sweat it. You’re not alone. Solidcore has gained a cult following for its intense, slow-burn workouts, but diving in headfirst can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re breaking it all down for you—what to expect, how to prep, and why your muscles will be shaking like a leaf in the wind (spoiler: that’s the goal).
What Exactly Is Solidcore?
Solidcore is a high-intensity, low-impact strength training workout that uses a customized Pilates-inspired reformer machine called the "sweatlana." Unlike traditional Pilates, which focuses on fluid movements and flexibility, Solidcore is all about controlled, slow contractions designed to push your muscles to failure. Think of it as strength training meets endurance torture (in the best way possible). The classes are 50 minutes long, set in a dimly lit studio with energizing music, and led by coaches who guide you through a series of resistance-based exercises targeting every major muscle group. The goal? To exhaust your slow-twitch muscle fibers so they rebuild stronger—meaning you’ll feel the burn for days.
Why Does Solidcore Feel So Hard?
If you’ve ever taken a Solidcore class (or even just watched videos of people struggling through one), you know it looks deceptively simple. But the second you start moving, you realize: this is no joke. The reason? Time under tension. Solidcore forces your muscles to work in a sustained, controlled manner—no momentum, no cheating. Every rep is slow, deliberate, and designed to fatigue your muscles completely. And because the reformer adds resistance, even tiny movements become major challenges. The shaking? Totally normal. In fact, if you’re not trembling by the end, you might not be working hard enough. But don’t worry—your coach will be there to adjust the resistance and offer modifications so you can still get a killer workout without injuring yourself.
What Should You Wear to Solidcore?
Forget the baggy tees and loose shorts—Solidcore requires form-fitting clothing so your coach can check your alignment and make sure you’re engaging the right muscles. Opt for leggings or fitted shorts and a snug top (tank or tee). Grippy socks are a must since you’ll be working on the reformer, and bare feet or regular socks can lead to slipping. As for shoes? Nope. Solidcore is done entirely barefoot or in grip socks. And since you’ll be sweating buckets (hence the "sweatlana" nickname), moisture-wicking fabric is your best friend.
How Often Should You Do Solidcore?
Because Solidcore is so intense, your muscles need time to recover. Most coaches recommend 2-3 sessions per week max, especially if you’re new. Overtraining can lead to burnout or injury, so listen to your body—if you’re still sore from your last class, give yourself an extra rest day. That said, consistency is key. Since Solidcore focuses on muscle endurance and strength, you’ll see the best results if you stick with it over time. Many people notice changes in muscle tone and strength within 4-6 weeks of regular sessions.
Can Beginners Really Do Solidcore?
Absolutely! Solidcore offers beginner-friendly classes like Foundation50 and Starter50, which include more demonstrations, slower pacing, and built-in breaks. These sessions are perfect for getting comfortable with the reformer and learning proper form before jumping into the full 50-minute class. Coaches are also trained to provide modifications for every exercise, so don’t be afraid to speak up if something feels too challenging. Remember: everyone in that room started somewhere, and no one is judging you for taking it slow.
When Will You See Results?
This depends on your fitness level, diet, and how often you attend, but most people start noticing differences in muscle definition and endurance within a month or two. Solidcore isn’t a quick fix—it’s a long-game workout designed to build lean muscle and improve overall strength. If weight loss is your goal, pairing Solidcore with cardio and a balanced diet will yield the best results. And while the scale might not budge much at first (muscle weighs more than fat, after all), you’ll likely feel stronger, more toned, and way more capable in everyday movements.
At the end of the day, Solidcore is tough—but that’s why people love it. It challenges you in ways other workouts don’t, and the results speak for themselves. So if you’ve been on the fence, grab those grip socks, sign up for a beginner class, and embrace the shake. Your future self will thank you.
