With all of the benefits of traditional Pilates, reformer Pilates adds a whole other dimension of health and wellness to your routine!
A Look At Reformer Pilates: The Comprehensive Guide
With all of the benefits of traditional Pilates, reformer Pilates adds a whole other dimension of health and wellness to your routine!
Pilates is a form of low-impact exercise that focuses on controlled movements and breathing to improve strength, flexibility, and posture. Although it was originally developed for rehabilitation purposes, Pilates has become a popular workout for people of all fitness levels.
Reformer Pilates is a type of Pilates that uses a machine called a reformer. The reformer is a bed-like frame with a sliding platform and springs that provide resistance. A reformer machine allows you to perform the same exercises as traditional Pilates but with added resistance and stability.
In this article from Tribe Pilates, we’ll go into more depth about what Pilates is, discuss the benefits of reformer Pilates, and explore how it can help you reach your fitness goals!
What Is Pilates?
Pilates is a method of exercise that was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. Originally, it was created as a form of rehabilitation for WWI soldiers. However, Pilates can now be enjoyed by people of all ages and fitness levels.
Pilates is often described as “a system of mind-body conditioning” that can help you achieve a strong, flexible, resilient body. There are many different types of equipment that can be used for Pilates, but the most common is the mat. Mat Pilates exercises are typically performed on a floor mat with no additional equipment, relying strictly on the body and its range of motion.
What Is Reformer Pilates?
With the added resistance of the reformer machine, reformer Pilates can help to build strength and muscle tone more quickly than mat Pilates alone. It can also help to improve balance and coordination.
Reformer Pilates is often recommended for people who are new to Pilates or who have injuries or other health concerns that might limit their ability to do the free-form mat exercises.
However, anyone can benefit from reformer Pilates!
The reformer machine is one of Joseph Pilates’ original inventions. This machine can be adjusted to accommodate different fitness levels and goals. For example, adjusting the machine’s springs will add or remove tension to make the resistance lighter or heavier, depending on your needs.
The reformer can also be used for a variety of exercises, making it a versatile piece of equipment.
In addition to the benefits of traditional Pilates, reformer Pilates can help to:
- Build strength and muscle tone
- Improve balance and coordination
- Increase flexibility
- Reduce stress
- Alleviate back pain
Reformer Pilates Is Perfect for Older Adults and People With Injuries
Older adults and people with injuries can often find mat Pilates exercises to be difficult or even impossible. However, reformer Pilates can provide a safe and effective workout for these individuals. The reformer machine is low impact, so it’s gentle on the joints.
Also, as we mentioned, the springs can be adjusted to provide the perfect amount of resistance for each individual. Reformer Pilates is also beneficial for people who are pregnant or postpartum. The machine can help to support the body and take some of the strain off of the lower back and legs.
However, it’s important to consult your doctor before starting a new exercise routine, especially if you are pregnant, postpartum, or have suffered injuries.
How Can Reformer Pilates Help You Reach Your Fitness Goals?
Whether you’re looking to improve your overall health or build strength and muscle tone, reformer Pilates can help you reach your fitness goals.
Reformer Pilates is a great workout for beginners because it is low impact and can be easily modified to accommodate different fitness levels. As you become more comfortable with the exercises, you can increase the intensity by adding more resistance.
For people who are looking to build strength and muscle tone, reformer Pilates can be a great addition to their workout routine. The added resistance of the reformer machine can help to tone muscles more quickly than mat Pilates alone.
In addition to its physical benefits, reformer Pilates can also help to reduce stress and alleviate back pain. The controlled movements and deep breathing help to relax the mind and body, while the reformer helps to align the spine and improve posture.
So whether you’re new to Pilates or you’re looking for a challenging workout, reformer Pilates can help you reach your fitness goals.
Next, we’ll take a look at some basic exercises to help you get started on your Pilates journey!
What Are Some Basic Reformer Pilates Exercises?
Here are some basic reformer Pilates exercises that can help you get started:
The Hundred
This exercise is a go-to for warming up the body and improving breathing. To do this exercise, lie on your back with your head and shoulders lifted off the reformer. Extend your arms straight out in front of you and lift your legs so that they are perpendicular to the floor. Pump your arms up and down while exhaling for a count of five and inhaling for a count of five. Repeat this 10 times.
Pelvic Tilt
The Pelvic Tilt is great for strengthening the abs and improving posture. To begin, lie on your back with your knees bent and feet flat on the reformer. Place your hands on your hips and, tilting your pelvis, arch your back off the reformer. Then, tilt your pelvis back and round your back, tucking your chin to your chest. Repeat this 10 times.
Single-Leg Stretch
The Single-Leg Stretch is perfect for stretching the hamstrings and improving balance. First, lie on your back with one leg extended straight out in front of you and the other leg bent with the foot flat on the reformer. Place your hands on your bent knee and extend your leg until it is level with your hip. Hold for five counts and then return to the starting position. Repeat 10 times and then switch legs.
Double-Leg Stretch
In much of the same fashion as the Single-Leg Stretch, the Double is great for stretching the hamstrings and strengthening the abs. To do this exercise, lie on your back with both legs extended straight out in front of you. Place your hands on your ankles and curl your head and shoulders off the reformer. As you exhale, bring your knees into your chest and reach your arms around your legs. Inhale as you extend both legs back to the starting position. Repeat 10 times.
The Swan
The Swan is amazing for strengthening the back and stretching the spine while opening up the chest. Start by lying on your stomach with your legs straight and your arms resting at your sides. Slowly lift your head, chest, and legs off the reformer. Hold for five counts and then lower back down to the starting position. Repeat 10 times.
Teaser
The Teaser is excellent for toning the abs and improving flexibility. Start in a seated position with your feet on the footrests and your arms extended in front of you. Use your abs to lift your head, shoulders, and legs off the reformer, then reach for your toes as you pulse your legs up and down. Repeat 10-15 times.
Start Your Reformer Pilates Workout Routine Today!
Now that you know some basic reformer Pilates exercises, it’s time to get started on your workout routine. If you’re new to Pilates, it’s always a good idea to start with a beginner class or private session to make sure you’re doing the exercises correctly.
Once you’re comfortable with the basics, you can move on to more advanced classes.
Reformer Pilates is a great workout for people of all fitness levels. It’s low-impact and can be easily modified to accommodate different fitness goals. If you would like to explore additional information about Pilates or reformer Pilates, click the link below to learn more from the experts at Tribe Pilates!
Stop by the studio if you’re interested in a reformer pilates class; we’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have.
