1. Joseph Pilates Exercise Method
Joseph Pilates brought his exercise to the United States in the early 1900s after World War I. As a young man in his native Germany, Pilates suffered with health problems. These exercises were developed to restore his health and an attractive physique and appearance. Pilates' background consisted of yoga, gymnastics, boxing, Zen meditation and work in the circus. During the war when materials were scarce, he developed early versions of today's popular Pilates' equipment. The Reformer is one such piece of equipment that may have been developed from a wooden bed frame.
2. All Shapes and Sizes
In these modern times many shapes, sizes and styles of Pilates' reformers can be found. There are reformers that are stackable for easy storage. Others will condense and slide under a bed, or stand upright in a closet. There are lightweight aluminum metal reformers as well as beautifully made oak wood reformers. You can find affordable Pilates' reformers for your home at prices in the hundreds with 30-day guarantees. Other reformers alone and with add-ons will cost several thousand dollars and have limited life guarantees. You just need to shop around and find the perfect match for your body and your pocketbook.
3. Pulleys, Springs, Headrests and Handgrips, oh my
More than 32 exercises can be performed on reformers. All reformers will help to trim the abdomen, firm the chest, develop flexibility, tighten triceps, improve coordination, build strong shoulders, tighten the buttocks, improve posture and work with small muscles often never used in other traditional exercises. Adjustable resistance springs, pulleys, headrests and footrests, pulleys, padded foot bars, wheels, carriage, straps and handgrips give the user plenty of opportunity to get in shape.
4. Studio Reformers
Choices of reformers are many, but one all-time favorite and state-of-the-art-reformer that's been on the market for 30 years is made of solid rock maple and can be found in the finest Pilates stores and studios. This reformer, sometimes called the Studio Reformer, is quiet, smooth and durable. Some Studio Reformers are known to still be in active use after 20 years. You can practically design your own reformer for custom height, wood color, various springbar and footbar systems and other add-ons.
5. Shop Around
Pilates is such a popular form of exercise today that a simple search on the Internet will educate you in choices and options for reformers. The basic concept of a reformer is the same, to get you in shape and build an attractive lean body. Choices abound. The names are not even standard. You will find reformers called premier, stamina, IQ, Allegra, Studio. Look and shop online and check your yellow pages for local studios. Try out reformers at those local studios to find your perfect reformer.
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