Smart Shopping for Pilates C-Shapers

Pilates can transform how your body looks and feels, as well as enhance your level of body-awareness through its mind-body techniques. It builds long and lean muscles, teaches proper posture and improves flexibility. Pilates is a wonderful choice for beginners interested in gaining proper alignment of their spine, basic core strength and enhanced awareness of their body. The Pilates C-Shaper provides a comfortable support to the spine during Pilates exercises. If you have difficulty relaxing your neck or shoulders while performing Pilates movements, the C-shaper will help minimize your neck tension. If you have weak lower back or abdominal muscles, the C-Shaper will be a great complement to your Pilates mat and equipment-based sessions by promoting a natural curvature of the spine.

The C-Shaper is often implemented post-injury and post-rehabilitation because of its focus on supporting the spine. It develops proper Pilates exercise techniques while reducing the stress on your neck and shoulders. The C-Shaper is equally valuable to other special populations including individuals who are pregnant, post-partum, overweight or obese.

What to Look for

Pilates C-Shapers are simple in design relative to other Pilates equipment, but there are still some considerations before you purchase your first C-Shaper. Check the quality of the upholstery for durability and resistance to wear and tear. The cover of the C-Shaper should also be comfortable and easy to clean after workouts. A vinyl surface is not only durable, but it will also clean very easily after each use. A cloth or cotton cover will be more likely to tear and will require removal for washing and drying.
Side handles are available on many C-Shaper models. If you are primarily using this piece of equipment for supportive purposes, you will appreciate the additional support the handles provide during dynamic activities.

Common Pitfalls

While the C-Shaper is often used to assist exercises for pregnant or obese users, many buyers complain that the width is still too narrow. Before purchasing a C-Shaper make sure the width fits your needs. You may also ask the manufacturer for length measurements if you are taller than average. If the C-Shaper is too short for your build, you will not receive the needed level of support for your spine.