Pilates exercises can either be performed on the mat, or on specially designed Pilates equipment. You can use either Pilates machines or smaller props. The larger machines are expensive, so evaluate your space, fitness needs and available space before you buy equipment such as the reformer or the Pilates chair.
Buying Pilates equipment for a studio presents some additional considerations. It may be tempting to save money by buying machines designed for home use, but the warranty on these products does not cover studio use.
The Reformer
The reformer was Joseph Pilates' first piece of equipment. Its versatility makes it the most popular machine among Pilates enthusiasts. The reformer consists of springs, pulleys and a movable carriage. You can perform exercises for the upper body, lower body and the core on this machine. Home-use reformers are a popular item on television shopping channels and Internet exercise equipment websites. Pricing is competitive, but quality is low. Major Pilates equipment manufacturers such as Stott and Balanced Body also make reformers for home use. They are more expensive, but the quality and durability of these machines is superior to the cheaper models.
The Chair
The Pilates chair is not as versatile as the reformer, but it is less expensive. There are also a number of foot and ankle exercises that can be performed on the chair, which can be beneficial to athletes. The chair is shaped like a box with foot pedals on one side. Resistance is controlled by adjusting the springs. Exercises can be performed on the pedals and on top of the box. The home models of the Pilates chair are cheaper, but may not have enough resistance for advanced participants.
The Fitness Circle
The Pilates fitness circle is composed of a coated, flexible metal, which is padded on the inside and outside. It is used for inner thigh, outer thigh and chest exercises. Fitness circles are an inexpensive addition to a Pilates equipment collection.
Stability Balls
The movements of the stability ball can simulate the movements of the reformer carriage. Some trainers believe that the balance challenges imposed by the ball add to the efficiency of the exercises.
Elastic Resistance Bands
Elastic resistance bands are versatile and affordable. You can use them for many of the Pilates exercises. Some of the band exercises simulate the cable actions of the reformer. You can use bands can be used in conjunction with the stability ball to create a "poor person's reformer."
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