Pilates was developed by the German athlete, Joseph Pilates, as a form of rehabilitation for people with physical limitations, states the Pilates Foundation website. Today, Pilates has become a popular method of increasing strength without developing bulky muscles. According to the Pilates Insight website, Pilates offers a balance of strength and flexibility.
Considerations
Pilates workout equipment can vary from a simple mat to a complex machine. The type of equipment you use to perform Pilates movements will likely depend upon your commitment to the fitness method, choice of workout space and financial means. Pilates machines, including the Reformer, are big, expensive and require in-depth training to use it safely and correctly. Mats, resistance bands and sculpting balls are less expensive, can be easily stored and do not require extensive training to use correctly. You can easily equip your home gym with these items.
Reformer
A Pilates Reformer is a large piece of equipment that encourages stretching and strength development by providing a comfortable and compact platform for you to perform a wide variety of Pilates exercises, according to fitness expert Beth Begelman of the Pilates Digest website. It resembles a rowing machine with its moving platform and pulley system of ropes. Begelman describes the Pilates Reformer as including a sliding the carriage, or matt; springs that adjust the tension of the carriage; an adjustable footbar used to perform various positions while maintaining correct alignment and shoulder blocks to stabilize the carriage. The Reformer also has straps that allow you to move the carriage back and forth.
Mat
An alternative to using the Pilates Reformer is the Pilates mat. Although you may have a wider range of movements using a Reformer, mats are more inexpensive and can be rolled up and moved at will unlike a Pilates Reformer, states the Pilates Insight website. A mat provides cushioning and traction to keep you comfortable and safe. According to the Pilates Insight website, a good Pilates mat is made of thick foam, has a textured, non-slip surface and an anti-skid grip.
Sculpting Ball
A sculpting ball is a large, inflatable ball that is sturdy enough for you to sit on or lay across to perform various Pilate exercises. The use of an unstable object, including the sculpting ball, challenges your balance and engages your core muscle groups. Although a sculpting ball was not designed specifically for Pilate's exercises, its use can enhance the effectiveness of a Pilate movement. According to the Pilates Insight website, you can adapt many Pilate movements to perform them on the sculpting ball, increasing the intensity of an exercise.
Resistance Bands
Resistance bands add an extra element of force to a Pilate movement. Resistance bands are long, latex straps that replicate the resistance created by the ropes of a Pilates Reformer, states the Pilates Insight website. Using them can improve your muscle and joint flexibility, tone your body and work core muscles by modifying Pilate movements with the use of resistance bands.
Member Comments