Pilates has been around as a method of obtaining full-body physical fitness for a long time. However, it's only recently that this innovative kind of exercise has blossomed into popularity. With that popularity has come a wide range of pilates instruction videos, classes, and equipment. With all that's on the market, the beginner to pilates might start wondering if any of it is necessary. Even if not everything on the market is junk, how can you tell what pilates equipment will be useful to you, and what will be a waste of money? Here are a few examples of the pilates equipment that's out there, and information about what each is used for.
There are many different levels and types of pilates exercises, some of which are aided by equipment such as exercise balls and bands. Not every practitioner of pilates will need this kind of equipment, but many will find them helpful. There are even complicated machines like the pilates reformer, that can help provide resistance and build good alignment and flexibility.
Pilates Mats
Mats are helpful in any exercise situation. They cushion the surface you're working on and provide a non-slip flooring. However, when you start in pilates, you should first decide whether you will start with mat work, or take up using other equipment like the reformer. Those who are jumping ahead to equipment assisted exercises may choose to forgo mats. When buying a pilates mat, be sure it's at least a half inch thick, and large enough for your exercises. A firm mat is also desirable, since soft mats can throw off your balance.
Exercise Balls and Bands
Exercise balls aren't part of the traditional pilates program, but they can provide an additional challenge, making them helpful in the building of balance and flexibility. Trying to perform an exercise atop one of these balls increases the difficulty of the workout. This means that if you're just starting out, you may find an exercise ball to be too intimidating. However, if your pilates exercises have become easy, one of these pieces of pilates equipment might be just what you need. If you do buy a ball, be sure to get one that's the right size for your height.
Exercise bands are another way to increase the difficulty of your workout. Unlike balls, they're a standard part of traditional pilates practice. They were developed for physical rehabilitation, but were soon added to mainstream fitness equipment. Two kinds are available: those which look like big ribbons, and those made from tubing. Flat bands are the most common in pilates use, since they're easy to manipulate, and are friendly to people who are barefoot. Again, beginners may not need this kind of pilates equipment, since the exercises are challenging in and of themselves. However, if you'd like to purchase an exercise band, be sure that you buy one that's long enough. Within eight inches of your height is a good rule of thumb. If you're allergic to latex, make sure that your exercise band is latex free, and choose the right level of resistance for you.
Reformers
Another common piece of pilates equipment is the reformer. While it might look like a medieval torture device, it's actually designed to provide more resistance while you perform your pilates exercises. Some reformers are made from wood. Others are metal. Reformers are usually for advanced pilates practitioners, so you'll probably want to take a class or borrow one before buying your own. However, many different companies produce these machines, so it shouldn't be hard to find one that you like.
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