While many people like to practice Pilates at a studio, others prefer to exercise in the privacy of their own home. These folks are often in the market for Pilates home gym equipment. Fortunately, many manufacturers produce a variety of Pilates machines that are suitable for home use. The Pilates Reformer is the most popular.
The Pilates Reformer consists of a gliding carriage that is attached to a series of rails within a rectangular frame. The carriage of the Pilates Reformer is connected to springs, along with pulleys and ropes attached to the frame. Pilates Reformer exercises can be performed in different positions, which include supine, prone, seated or kneeling. There are exercises for every part of the body.
The unique thing about the Pilates Reformer is that it can either be used to assist or resist movement. Depending on how you adjust the springs, the Reformer can either provide assistance for the more challenging Pilates exercises, or resistance for the easier ones.
What to Look for
While the thought of having your very own Pilates Reformer may sound tempting, there are some factors that should be taken into consideration. First off, while Pilates exercises may seem relatively simple, they are actually quite complex. Many people can get on the Pilates Reformer and do some of the basic movements. However, in most cases, they are missing the subtleties of the workout. If you are thinking about purchasing a Pilates Reformer for your home, take a few classes with a certified Pilates instructor. If that is not feasible, be sure to purchase a few Pilates Reformer DVDs and books.
The next things you will want to consider are the limitations of your space and budget. Fortunately, there are reformers that come in a variety of spatial dimensions. They also vary in price. Pilates Reformers for home use can be found for as little as $300 and as much as $3500. The price is often related to the quality of the cords, as well as the quality of the frame.
If you have limited space in your home, look for Pilates Reformers that can fold up after use. But keep in mind; you need to be highly motivated to benefit from this type of machine, lest it become an overpriced coat rack. Often, if an exercise machine is not readily available, it becomes the sad victim of the out of sight, out of mind mentality.
Common Pitfalls
Assembly is the biggest complaint about many of the Pilates Reformers that are designed for home use. Of course, some folks are more mechanically gifted than others. That said, it may be a good idea to go to the store and have the sales person show you that it is in fact easy to assemble.
Poor construction is another common complaint about the less expensive Pilates Reformers. Many users complain about cords that break and lack of fluidity in the movement of the carriage. Additionally, be sure to check out the length of the Reformer. Some of the cheaper models are too short for anyone over 5'5".
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