“The Reformer” has been a buzz word lately in celebrity circles. The likes of Sting, Sylvester Stallone, Jennifer Aniston & Harry Styles are training their bodies with this Pilates Apparatus. Many athletes are also turning to reformer Pilates to realign, lengthen and rebalance their bodies after injuries. But what is “The Reformer” and why should you be doing it?
So what is Reformer Pilates, and more specifically, ‘The Reformer’?
The Reformer is a type of pilates equipment that uses spring resistance on a moving platform to train the alignment and control of the whole body. It is unlike any other gym machine on the market in that it can work the entire body in various planes of movement.
Invented by Pilates Founder Joseph Pilates, the reformer uses a spring assisted carriage, foot bar and straps to resist and assist different types of exercises aiming to improve your strength, flexiblity and balance. This in turn will help to improve posture and mobility within the body.
Pilates can also be used to rehabilitate those suffering from injuries, postural issues, and is great as a pre and post-natal form of exercise.
How to use the Reformer
The great thing about the Reformer is the versatility of the equipment. Exercises primarily focus on the arms and legs moving while keeping a stable spine and pelvis. Workouts flow from positions performed lying, kneeling, sitting and standing to build function, strength and control. Various props like balls, circles and bands can add challenge or support for each person.
A Reformer class is brilliant in its ability to cater to each individual, no matter their level or ability.
Here is a clip of some movements that can be done on the reformer:
What are the benefits of Reformer Pilates?
- Enhance core strength
- Improve flexibility
- Improve strength
- Rehabilitate injuries
- Reconnect body & mind
What’s difference between Mat based and Reformer Pilates?
Matwork Pilates generally uses your own body with small props to provide spinal mobility and stability. The moves on the mat are often very challenging with little support or weight bearing movements. Reformer Pilates offers more feedback and support using the footbar and springs so that you can assist or challenge your movement accordingly. When Joseph Pilates created the Pilates method he tended to use the machines with the springs first with a client to build confidence and support and then progressed his clients to the mat. In the fitness world it is often the other way around. People begin their pilates journey on the mat and then discover the wonderful benefits of the Reformer.
When will I see a difference?
Well, Joseph Pilates himself famously said:
‘In 10 sessions you’ll feel the difference, in 20 sessions you’ll see the difference, and in 30 sessions you’ll have a whole new body’
If you’re new to movement or wish to experience a new way of moving, Reformer Pilates can be a great place to start. Why not contact us today about booking onto our next beginner Reformer Pilates course.