Joseph Pilates developed his signature exercise technique in Germany in the early 20th century, but Pilates exercise did not become a household term until the 1990s. The method enhances core stability, strength, functional breathing, coordination and flexibility. Many people begin their Pilates training with the mat series. Those who can afford the $40 to $125 an hour private sessions move on to reformer training. The Pilates Allegro Reformer, used for group sessions, is an affordable alternative.
History
Balanced Body, a major Pilates equipment manufacturer, created the Pilates Allegro. Ken Endelman, the company's founder, was a custom furniture designer. His career path changed in the 1970s when a Pilates studio owner asked him to redesign her Pilates reformer. Endelman consulted other Pilates instructors, and designed a smoother, safer, quieter reformer. He continued to refine the reformer and other types of Pilates apparatus. Endelman played a key role in winning the trademark lawsuit that enabled instructors to alter their classes according to modern sports medicine theories and still use the name "Pilates." As Pilates exercise became user-friendly, more people wanted to practice the method. Brent Anderson, founder of Polestar Education, noticed this trend but realized that some people could not afford private sessions. He approached Endelman about building a smaller, group exercise reformer.
Identification
The Pilates Allegro Reformer measures 6.75 inches high and 93 inches long. The machine folds for easy storage. Wheels on the bottom enable a moderately strong person to roll the Allegro into the classroom.
Features
The Pilates Allegro Reformer features adjustable ropes with nautical cam cleats. It has a five-spring resistance system, adjustable neck rest and shoulder pads and a swivel pulley that enables variable resistance angles. The footbar has four vertical positions, which increase or decrease the exercise intensity, and four horizontal positions, which accommodate people of different heights. The Allegro comes with an instructional video.
Function
Endelman designed the Pilates Allegro Reformer for home use or for group exercise classes. The machine accommodates the entire reformer series, which includes exercises for every muscle in the body.
Benefits
Group exercise instructors can use the instructional video to demonstrate the exercises. This allows them to walk around the room and provide personalized attention. The pulley's variable resistance angles allow you to tweak the exercises for sport-specific training. The Allegro also benefits anyone who wants home exercise equipment but has limited space.
Considerations
The Pilates Allegro Reformer is lower to the ground than traditional reformers. Although this does not pose a problem for healthy individuals, people with blood pressure problems, knee injuries or arthritis might find it difficult to get on and off the machine. If this is an issue, the Allegro also comes with 14-inch legs. Proper storage is an important fitness center safety measure. Christine Romani-Ruby, CEO of PowerHouse Pilates, recommends not stacking more than five Allegro Reformers.
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