A pilates reformer is a piece of exercise equipment designed to provide resistance when performing pilates exercises. It was originally designed by the originator of the exercise method, Joseph Pilates, although many variations have occurred since then. Many people feel that owning a reformer helps them get more out of their pilates workout.
How Does Resistance Work?
In a reformer, a platform moves back and forth along a carriage. There are springs or elastic bands attached to this carriage and to the platform. Your body weight provides extra resistance while doing pilates exercises, meaning that your muscles have to work harder than they would on a mat. High quality reformers offer interchangeable or adjustable springs and bands, to allow users to choose the difficulty level of their workout.
To learn to use a pilates reformer, you'll probably need to take a private class, or at least watch a video explaining all the parts of the machine and how to use them. This is because even small adjustments to posture and foot position can change how your workout goes. If you're used to a reformer, you can use this fact to adjust which muscles you're targeting during a workout. However, if the pilates reformer is still a mystery to you, not knowing exactly how to use it could be detrimental. Fortunately, after you've been shown how to use a reformer, exercising on it is simple.
Ideally, users of a pilates reformer should hop on it two or three times per week, if not daily. Because of this, many people choose to buy one. However, this isn't absolutely necessary. Many facilities that offer pilates lessons also have reformers on hand for students to use. In fact, taking a pilates reformer class from a certified teacher is the best way to use one, unless you've been practicing pilates for a long time on your own.
For those who cannot get access to a teacher and facility, or who are longtime pilates devotees, home reformers can be purchased. They tend to be expensive, but are usually well built and long lasting. Look for an adjustable reformer that provides the range of exercise options you'd like, and be willing to pay a bit more for a quality machine. It's often best to buy your pilates reformer at a brick and mortar store, so you can see the model and even try it out before buying. However, online purchases can be effective if you know what you're getting.
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