What is Reformer Pilates?
Developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s, Pilates exercises are one of the most popular exercise techniques being used today. The best thing about these exercises is that anyone, including athletes, children, and senior citizens, can perform them. Reformer Pilates is one of the most common types of Pilates equipment.
Curious about what Reformer Pilates is all about? Read on to learn what this piece of equipment can do and how you can benefit from reformer Pilates exercises.
Understanding Reformer Pilates
The Reformer is an adjustable frame designed like a bed. It involves a movable carriage attached to part of the frame by several colored springs. These springs are designed to provide different levels of resistance as you push or pull yourself on the carriage along the bed.
The equipment also features shoulder blocks that ensure you don’t slide off the carriage. There are also straps with handles, which you can pull with either your hands or legs to perform various exercises. Also worth noting is the adjustable footbar where the springs are attached.
You can use the footbar with your hands or feet as you move the carriage. Various parts of the reformer are adjustable to suit different body sizes as well as different skill levels.
How to Use a Pilates Reformer
The reformer is a versatile piece of equipment. It allows you to perform a wide range of exercises to improve strength, balance, and flexibility. You can perform exercises while sitting, standing, lying down, perched on the shoulder blocks or the footbar, as well as by pulling or pushing the straps.
You may also use the Reformer with other equipment. That means you can use it to target different parts of the body with variations of exercises. Whether you are a beginner or a veteran, there’s a selection of pilate reformer exercises for you to choose from.
The Benefits of Reformer Pilates
Reformer Pilates has been proven to have a wide range of benefits. According to research, Pilates reformer exercises are effective in improving body awareness as well as spinal and pelvic alignment. These added benefits help you to perform exercises without exerting undue pressure on your joints and muscles.
Moreover, it is effective for treating groin and hamstring strains. It can also be beneficial for managing and preventing lower back pain.
Below are some other benefits of Reformer Pilates:
- Improving tone and helping with weight loss
- Strengthening major muscle groups
- Building core strength
- Improving balance and stability
- Enhancing flexibility and range of motion
- Calming the mind and improving focus
Conclusion
Pilates reformer is an excellent piece of equipment with loads of benefits and a wide range of usage options. You can learn reformer Pilates by attending reformer Pilates classes; if you don’t like the idea of group reformer classes, however, you may consider engaging a private trainer. There are also online Pilates classes, so you don’t necessarily need a live instructor in order to learn. Once you understand the basics of Pilates exercise, you very well might consider purchasing a Pilates home reformer for yourself.