Why you need to try the Pilates Reformer machine!

Pilates instructor performing a lunge exercise, testing her balance on a Balanced Body Pilates Reformer machine
Pilates instructor performing the mermaid exercise, side stretch on the Balanced Body Pilates Reformer machine.

All About the Pilates Reformer Machine & What It Can Do For You

The Pilates Reformer machine is a piece of exercise equipment that has recently gained more popularity. Developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, these machines are designed to help users improve strength, flexibility, and balance. In this blog post, we will explore the history of Pilates reformers, the benefits of exercising on them, and how they differ from other exercise equipment.

The history of Pilates reformers can be traced back to the early 20th century. Joseph Pilates, a German physical trainer, invented the reformer while he was interned in a British war camp during World War I. Pilates developed the machine to help injured soldiers rehabilitate their bodies. He believed that traditional forms of exercise, such as weightlifting and running, only worked certain muscle groups and could lead to imbalances in the body. In contrast, Pilates reformers work the entire body, helping to create a balanced and toned physique.

How Are Pilates Reformers Different from Other Exercise Equipment?

Pilates instructor performing side-lying feet in strap work, an inner thigh exercise on the Balanced Body Pilates Reformer machine
Pilates instructor performing kneeling serving trays exercise on the Balanced Body Pilates Reformer machine. An exercise for the shoulders and core.

The Pilates reformer consists of a sliding carriage that moves along a horizontal frame. The carriage is connected to spring resistance, ropes, and pulleys. The user can perform various strengthening and stretching exercises on the reformer that target the entire body.

One of the significant benefits of exercising on a Pilates reformer is that it promotes full-body strength and flexibility. The machine is different from other exercise equipment in several ways:

Pilates instructor performing the hundreds abdominal exercise on the Balanced Body Pilates Reformer machine
  1. It provides resistance in multiple directions, which helps to work the muscles in a more balanced way. This can lead to better posture, improved balance, and a more toned and defined physique. Additionally, the Pilates reformer can help to improve core strength, which is essential for many daily activities.

  2. The machine’s sliding carriage and adjustable resistance allow the user to perform a wide variety of strengthening and stretching exercises that target the entire body. The rope work, in particular, allows the body to move through a bigger range of motion than other exercise equipment. Users can do exercises laying on their back, stomach, side, sitting, kneeling, standing, you name it!

  3. Pilates reformers are an excellent option for those who are recovering from injuries because they provide a low-impact form of exercise that is more gentle to the joints, unlike running or other high-impact activities. This makes it ideal for people with hip, knee, or back problems and allows patients to regain strength and mobility. Many physical therapists and rehabilitation clinics use Pilates reformers to help patients recover from injuries and surgeries.

If you are looking to improve your overall fitness and well-being, you may consider trying a Pilates reformer class or working 1-on-1 with a Pilates trainer. You will feel reformed, and your body will thank you!

Pilates instructor performing the Swan on a Balanced Body Pilates Reformer machine
Pilates instructor performing single leg foot work on a Balanced Body Pilates Reformer machine

We know that not everyone has a Pilates Reformer at home. Get just as great of a workout and try these 5 FREE on-demand Pilates Mat classes right at home! No special equipment or props needed!


Other articles you may be interested in:

Previous
Previous

Yoga or Pilates?

Next
Next

Goodbye Tech Neck Pain