1. Reformers, Trapezes and Wall Units
The half trapeze is a combination of the Pilates reformer and the trapeze and the wall unit is a compact version of the half trapeze. Joseph Pilates invented the trapeze for bedridden patients who could not get up to use the reformer. The half trapeze takes up less space than the full trapeze and both half and full trapezes have built-in mats that are a foot or two off the floor like the reformer. You can use the wall unit, on the other hand, with or without a floor mat.
2. Pilates Wall Unit
The Pilates wall unit is a great conserver of space and integrates the same functions of a trapeze or half trapeze into its design. You can buy a mat for the wall unit, if it didn't come with one. Wall units have the capacity to use all of the paraphernalia of the larger equipment like the straps and holds, resistance levers, springs, and roll down and cross bars. If the unit did not come with any of these, feel free to add them on later. Use the floor mat while using magic circles, resistance bands and other props. For instance, hold the magic circle between the legs or knees while doing spring-assisted resistance exercises with the arms and hands. Use the resistance band with the arms and behind the back while feet or legs are engaged in resistance work with the wall unit. Just know your level and leave advanced techniques for when you're ready.
3. Pilates Chairs and Trapeze
You can use the Pilates trapeze lying down--and with hanging arm and foot rests, springs and pulleys, it reminds you of a hospital bed. The Combo chair is an advanced version of the Pilates Wunda chair and does much more than the Wunda. The Combo chair with resistance pedals and sophisticated resistance parts that work both arms and legs can be a full workout on its own. The Combo is the same height as the trapeze, and can be scooted up next to the trapeze and used in conjunction with it.
4. Pilates Mats, Magic Circles, Boxes and Resistance Bands
Use mats, Pilates magic circles, resistance bands and boxes in combination with reformers, trapezes, half trapezes, wall units and Pilates chairs. You can utilize Pilates balls sitting in front of a wall unit using pulleys and springs with the arms and hands. Resistance bands and magic circles can be used while balancing on a fitness ball. For the advanced student, both resistance bands and magic circles, or small weights can be used in conjunction with any of the bigger equipment: a wall unit, half trapeze, Cadillac or reformer.
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