Ready for a Pilates Reformer Workout?

Stamina AeroPilates Pro XP 556 Home Pilates Reformer with Free-Form Cardio Rebounder
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Pilates has become one of the fastest growing forms of exercise methods and for good reason. Everyone from Hollywood stars to stay-at-home moms are finding results with the Pilates method. The Pilates Method is particularly known for its ability to build core strength and the long, lean muscle tone often associated with dancers. These results mean that many people are turning to Pilates classes or a Pilates DVD in an effort to gain the many benefits this exercise program can offer.

Despite all the information around, the world of Pilates for beginners can seem a little overwhelming with its different methods and various types of equipment and machines. One very popular Pilates machine is the Reformer. If you’ve never used, or seen, a Pilates Reformer, it can be a little intimidating. The Reformer has gears, straps, springs and pulleys and to a beginner, it appears a bit medieval and menacing. The Reformer is used to provide additional resistance while working through the Pilates exercises.

However there’s no need to be scared provided you progress at the right pace and don’t rush to get busy with a Reformer too soon. The machine looks kind of like a single bed frame with a sliding carriage attached to it. The Reformer uses springs that can be adjusted in order to regulate the resistance and tension. With its various cables, bars, straps and pulleys, the Reformer is a versatile machine allowing various Pilates exercises to be performed in a variety of positions.

Many instructors will require beginners to start with mat Pilates before they attempt to use any of the Pilates equipment or machines, such as the Reformer. Mari Winsor, founder of the Winsor Pilates Method, agrees. “Mat work is a great option for beginners because of its emphasis on learning how to control your muscles during exercises,” she says. “The work is too specific to be done in a group reformer class. You need to be watched like a hawk in the beginning.” Most students take mat Pilates and practices the Pilates exercises for about three months before they attempt a Reformer Pilates class.

And even when ready to start a Pilates Reformer workout, many students take several months of private instruction before they join a group class. In fact, many Pilates studios won’t even let a beginner take a Reformer class until they’ve had several private lessons to master the basics of the Reformer.

The pulley and spring system of the Reformer creates a challenging workout, more challenging than the Pilates mat workout. However, it also results in visible results in a very short time. Legs, arms, and abs become firmer and more defined.

The Pilates Reformer is now available in many models for home use, these are reasonably priced and often come with an instructional DVD featuring a certified Pilates instructor but don’t rush into using one until you are quite ready.

July 24, 2010 | Filed Under Fitness Equipment