What is the Pilates Reformer: Benefits and How To Use

Are you looking for a new way to improve your strength, flexibility, and overall fitness? Have you ever heard of the Pilates Reformer? This versatile piece of exercise equipment can help transform your body and provide a challenging workout that targets all muscle groups. 

What is a Pilates Reformer?

The Pilates Reformer is a versatile piece of exercise equipment that is used in Pilates workouts to help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination. It is a horizontal frame that is elevated a few inches off the ground and consists of a carriage that moves back and forth along a track, with springs and straps attached to the carriage that provides resistance and assistance during exercises.

The Reformer is designed to provide a full-body workout that targets every muscle group, with exercises that can be adjusted to accommodate different body sizes and fitness levels. The resistance provided by the springs and straps can be customized to create a challenging workout or to provide assistance for those who are just starting out.

The Reformer is often used in rehabilitation and physical therapy settings because it is a low-impact form of exercise that can help people recover from injuries and improve their range of motion. It is also used in fitness studios as a form of exercise that can help improve posture, balance, and core strength.

The Pilates Reformer workout emphasizes alignment, core strength, and breath control, and the movements are designed to be controlled and precise. Pilates Reformer workouts typically include exercises such as leg presses, chest presses, and arm pulls and can be done in a variety of positions, including lying down, sitting, or standing.

 

What Are The Benefits of Pilates Reformer?

There are many benefits of using a Pilates Reformer for exercise. Here are some of the key benefits:

1. Improves strength and flexibility. Pilates Reformer exercises are designed to target all muscle groups, which can help improve overall strength and flexibility.
2. Develops core strength. The Reformer’s exercises are designed to target the core muscles, which can help improve posture, balance, and stability.
3. Low-impact exercise. Pilates Reformer exercises are low-impact, which makes them an ideal form of exercise for people with joint pain or injuries.
4. Increases body awareness. Pilates Reformer exercises require focus and concentration, which can help improve body awareness and mindfulness.
5. Customizable resistance. The Reformer’s resistance can be adjusted to create a challenging workout or to provide assistance for those just starting out.
6. Improves posture. Pilates Reformer exercises are designed to improve alignment and posture, which can help reduce the risk of back pain and other postural issues.
7. Enhances athletic performance. Pilates Reformer exercises can help athletes improve their performance in other sports by increasing strength, flexibility, and body control.
8. Rehabilitation. The Pilates Reformer is often used in rehabilitation settings because it is a low-impact form of exercise that can help people recover from injuries and improve their range of motion.
9. Stress relief. The controlled, focused movements of Pilates Reformer exercises require concentration and mindfulness, which can help reduce stress and anxiety.

How To Use a Pilates Reformer?

Here are some general steps to follow when using a Pilates Reformer:

1. Set up the Reformer. Adjust the springs on the Reformer to your desired level of resistance, and attach any necessary straps and accessories.
2. Start with basic exercises. If you are new to the Pilates Reformer, start with basic exercises such as footwork and arm pulls to get comfortable with the equipment and its movements.
3. Focus on form and technique. Pilates Reformer exercises emphasize controlled and precise movements, so it is important to focus on proper form and technique to get the most out of your workout.
4. Follow a routine. There are many Pilates Reformer exercises and routines available, so it’s important to find one that suits your fitness level and goals. You can work with a certified Pilates instructor or follow a pre-designed workout program.
5. Gradually increase the difficulty. As you become more comfortable with the equipment and exercises, gradually increase the difficulty level of your workouts by adjusting the resistance or adding more challenging exercises.
6. Cool down and stretch. As with any workout, it’s important to cool down and stretch after using the Pilates Reformer to help prevent injury and reduce muscle soreness.

It’s important to note that Pilates Reformer exercises can be challenging and require proper guidance and instruction to avoid injury. It’s recommended to work with a certified Pilates instructor who can guide you through the proper form and technique.

Experience the benefits of Pilates for yourself and start your journey with Evergreen’s expert guidance and support.

Take the first step towards a stronger, healthier you – sign up for Evergreen Rehab and Wellness Pilates today! You may book a 1:1 or a duet Pilates session at our Coquitlam clinic or Langley Clinic.