What Are The Benefits Of Working Out On A Pilates Reformer?

Originally designed to treat muscular and skeletal injuries, the Pilates Reformer has since extended its appeal to both professional athletes and novice users looking to strengthen their muscles and improve cardiovascular function. Focusing on core stability, it also exercises the limbs and stretches muscles in a controlled style similar to that of yoga.

History

The Pilates Reformer was invented by German Joseph Pilates during his work with immobilized patients of World War I. It was designed to treat their injuries and promote overall health and fitness.

Function

The Reformer enables you to perform resistance exercises while standing, sitting, kneeling or lying on a sliding platform that is connected to a set of springs via a system of pulleys and straps. The machine offers a versatile, impact-free workout through more than 100 exercises.

Benefits

According to Christine Romani-Rubi and Marci Clark, authors of "The Pilates Reformer," the Reformer can help you exercise almost every muscle group in your body. They say it's an effective complementary training tool for sports such as swimming, running, golf and tennis, since it increases range of motion and flexibility and, being a resistance training machine, allows you to gradually increase the strength and endurance of your muscles. Since no impact is involved, it's safe for your joints, and because it strengthens and stretches your muscles, it can be used to treat and prevent conditions associated with the musco-skeletal system, specifically by correcting back alignment and improving posture. In a study conducted at Queen's University, two groups of chronic back pain sufferers received trial treatment over a period of one year. The first group participated in exercises using Pilates equipment and the second received conventional treatment in the form of consultations with health-care professionals. Those who utilized Pilates equipment showed significantly better improvements in their condition.

Types

Pilates as a whole involves both free-form exercises performed on a mat and exercises employing a variety of equipment. Combined, these can be used for workouts far more dynamic than the Reformer alone. The Swiss ball, probably the most popular piece of Pilates equipment, is used to strengthen the core through exercises that require balance and coordination, while resistance bands offer benefits similar to those of weightlifting. Light dumbbells also are commonly used.

Warning

Injuries while using the Reformer typically are due to poor mechanical maintenance, so it's essential that you check the machine for signs of wear to its springs and straps, and ensure that all nuts and bolts are secure and free of corrosion. It's also wise to train with an instructor at first so that you learn proper form and technique. While Pilates is generally safe and excellent for sustaining longevity, but as with any exercise system, incorrect use can lead to injury.