About Pilates Reformers

Overview

The Pilates Reformer is one of the most popular pieces of Pilates equipment. There are many types of Reformers. The Reformer was invented by Joesph Pilates, the inventor of the Pilates system. Some Reformers are best suited for general fitness, while others are specifically designed for rehabilitation.

History

The bed springs of a hospital bed provided inspiration for the Pilates Reformer. Before World War I, Joseph Pilates had moved from Germany to England. At the outbreak of the war, he was placed in an internment camp, where he worked with injured prisoners of war. Pilates rigged the hospital bed springs to provide resistance exercise for his patients. Years later, the Reformer was created. Photos of Pilates' studio in New York City show a set up of four Reformers. This was his first piece of exercise equipment.

Features

Some Reformers have a wooden frame, while other frames are made of metal. The more expensive machines have cables composed of leather straps. The less expensive home models use ropes. Aside from these differences, most Reformers have standard features. All Reformers have a foot bar, as well as a series of springs. The springs are color-coded to determine the level of resistance. In most cases, the springs with the least resistance are green, and those with the most resistance are red. All Reformers have a gliding carriage, which can be used from a supine, side-lying, standing or seated position. As the name implies, the head rest is used for resting the head. The shoulder pads stabilize the torso when performing exercises in the supine position.

Benefits

Unlike other types of exercise machines, which can be described as one-trick ponies, hundreds of exercises for every part of the body can be performed on the Pilates Reformer. Additionally, the Reformer can be used to modify some of the floor exercises for conditions such as pregnancy or arthritis. A raised Reformer can be helpful for people with blood pressure issues, which make it difficult for them to get up and down from the floor.

Types

Although they all function is a similar manner , there are actually many different types of Pilates Reformers. The studio Reformer is the most common. These Reformers are usually elevated on four sturdy legs. Since they are designed for long-term, frequent use, they are often the most expensive Reformers on the market. Clinical Reformers, also called rehab Reformers, are often higher off the ground than studio Reformers. This allows for easier mounting and dismounting. Additionally, it makes it easier for the instructor to use a hands-on approach. In contrast, group exercise Reformers do not have legs, and are easily folded up for storage. Group Reformer sessions are becoming popular in studio and health-club settings. They allow an affordable means of experiencing the benefits of Reformer training.

Considerations

The best Pilates Reformers can cost thousands of dollars. While certain home-gym manufacturers make a less expensive models for home use, these machines often have a flimsy design, and a less-than-attractive warranty. If possible, avoid purchasing a Reformer by mail order. Because of their growing popularity, you can often buy Pilates Reformers at exercise equipment stores. Try before you buy; make sure the carriage moves with fluidity, and that the machine has a sturdy design.