Pilates Reformer Exercises - Discussion

What are Pilates Reformer exercises?

The Pilates Reformer, a specific piece of exercise equipment unique to Pilates, has become one of the most widely recognized and used pieces of Pilates equipment.

Many Pilates instructors praise it for its versatility. It consists of a unique combination of springs, pulleys, straps and sliding carriages that assist in a variety of Pilates exercises. The adjustability allows for its use by people of varying physical capabilities and physiques.

Joseph Pilates, the equipment’s designer, created over one hundred specific Pilates Reformer exercises to be used in coordination with the machine, far outnumbering the number of exercises used in tandem with other equipment.

The Reformer consists of a rectangular frame, rather like a modified bed frame. Though the machine looks daunting, a review of its basic parts will put you at ease before you try it at the studio. Interior metal tracks run along the length of the frame and serve as the tracks or guides for a wheeled padded carriage system that attaches with springs and a handle-strap pulley system.

The Reformer also has handgrips, a headrest, and shoulder straps, as well as foot bar and a series of gears that adjust distances appropriately. The equipment allows for the full range of motion while completing Pilates Reformer exercises, and provides a built-in resistance system.

The Reformer forces you to use your core (the Powerhouse) to lift and pull the body’s weight along the carriage. Repetition of this action instills centering, poise, balance and spatial awareness very effectively.

Furthermore, all muscles can be worked nearly simultaneously. This is in contrast to traditional pieces of equipments, such as free weights, that isolate groups of muscles. There are many styles of Reformers, though the basic components remain the same.

Pilates developed a specific sequence of exercises to be performed with the Reformer. The sequence results in a constant, flowing set of movements that ranges from thirty to sixty minutes. When working with the Reformer, one can dispense with mat work for the day. In fact, working with the Reformer can provide a more challenging workout, and may produce visible results sooner.

The range of Pilates Reformer exercises possible likewise increases with the use of the Reformer. Even injured athletes and others recovering from various bodily trauma can use the plethora of attachments available to continue gentle exercise. Women in early pregnancy and heart patients can exercise using appropriate modifications as well.

The specialized Reformer sequence, as developed by Joseph Pilates, moves fluidly from warm-up exercise to more vigorous positions that awaken the mind-body connection. Pilates enthusiasts of all levels should try the machine to experience its benefits first hand.

You may wish to learn more about how the Pilates Power System can improve your health and fitness, and about how to use pilates to provide relief from back and joint pain.

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