What’s a Reformer I hear you cry?
It is a rather scary looking piece of Pilates equipment, Invented by the founder of Pilates, Joseph Pilates. It is a bed-like frame with a flat platform on it called the carriage, which moves back and forth on wheels within the frame. The carriage is attached to one end of the reformer by a set of springs. The springs provide resistance as the carriage is pushed or pulled along the frame.
The Reformer is used to incorporate the Pilates exercises for a challenging and intense workout. Springs, leverage and body weight are used as resistance whilst targeting specific muscle groups.
Everyone can do it, although the equipment may seem daunting at first, the beauty of the reformer is that the level can be adjusted to suit your body, using the springs.
So, what will this Reformer do for you?
Tone and reshape, you will never bulk up with Pilates, the added resistance of the springs will literally reshape your body.
Rehabilitate, the reformer is a great way to start exercising after an injury. The equipment is so gentle, and this combined with the principles of Pilates – precise movements performed in a safe way – will help you regain your strength and posture. If you have back injuries or muscular imbalance, it’s a great way to regain your strength.
Improved Posture Workouts on a Pilates Reformer will improve your spinal alignment. With improved alignment, your muscles will strengthen to improve spinal support and stability. Improved posture will lengthen your joints giving you a taller appearance. Muscular imbalances will be corrected decreasing the risk for injury, especially to the lower back. Awareness of proper posture during exercise will carry over to awareness of proper posture when performing everyday movements.
Increased Flexibility, Flexibility is the range of motion of your muscles and connective tissue. Workouts on a Pilates Reformer require your muscle groups to move through a full range of motion. Improved flexibility decreases strain and stress on your joints and muscles. Muscles contract with increased efficiency and workouts are more effective. Improved flexibility reduces stiffness, soreness and the chance of injury. You can perform everyday movements with less strain and fatigue.
It truly is an amazing piece of kit,