Pilates reformer machines are much like bicycles -- although each brand and model has unique features, they are very similar in use and function. The Pilates Allegro is a model of reformer made by the Balanced Body Co. in Sacramento, California. As of 2010, more than 25,000 Allegro reformers are in use around the world, according to the Balanced Body website.
Basics
The Allegro machine differs from classic reformer models in three areas: the foot bar, the straps and the ability to fold flat. The Allegro foot bar locks, making it safer than the traditional non-locking foot bar, which can inadvertently slide out of place during a workout. Classic reformers require switching from leather straps to handles when changing exercises. Double loops on the Allegro straps make this transition faster. You can remove the pulleys and shoulder rests of the Allegro to fold it flat for storage. This feature also allows Allegros to stack, requiring less space in a multipurpose studio.
Stretch
Balanced Body developed the Stretch Allegro to accommodate professional athletes and enthusiasts with a larger frame, usually those over 6 feet tall, according to Ken Endelman, founder of Balanced Body. This unit is 111 inches long and 24 1/2 inches wide, a full 18 inches longer than the standard Allegro. Several major league sports teams in football, basketball and baseball use this model as part of their conditioning programs for athletes to hit farther, jump higher and run faster, reports Endelman.
Accessories
Several accessory items can add new exercise options to the Allegro. The platform allows you to perform seated pulling exercises in a new position at the end of the Allegro carriage, while the long box raises your body higher on the machine for prone exercises. Master teacher Romana Kryzanowska reports that she developed the jump board attachment at the request of NASA trainers looking for core exercises for the astronauts. You can add plyometric training to your Allegro workout using the jump board.
Upgrades
The Tower of Power upgrade adds many elements of the Pilates Cadillac to the Allegro reformer at a fraction of the cost and space. The tower is a large arch that attaches to the pulley end of the Allegro. Arm springs, leg springs and a push-through bar attach to the arch, allowing you to add hundreds of exercises to your workout. This upgrade also folds flat against the base unit, allowing the model to stack and store in a smaller space.
References
- Balanced Body: Pilates Allegro Reformer
- Ken Endelman; Balanced Body; Sacramento, California
- Balanced Body: Pilates Training for Athletes
- Romana Kryzanowska; Romana's Pilates; New York City
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