How Reformer Pilates Combines Equipment and Movement for Ultimate Fitness

Pilates was established by Joseph Pilates in Germany. The main motive behind the development of Pilate’s form of exercise was to boost the human body and mind. There are basically two forms of Pilates one is mat Pilate and another is reformer Pilate. In reformer Pilate physical activities are carried out through equipment. The equipment used in Pilates is termed as “apparatus”. Reformer Pilates is a combination of Western and Eastern ideas regarding the health and fitness regime. The first Pilate studio was established by Joseph Pilate in New York. Pilate’s form of physical activities became very popular from the beginning especially among the dancers. They found it super effective in recovering from any injuries or muscle strains.

Equipment used in Reformer Pilate:

The equipment used in Pilates makes this form of physical activity very effective. Some of the equipment is extensively used while doing Pilate’s form of exercise is: 

• Cadillac
• Adder Barrel
• Wunda Chair
• Reformer

Reformer Pilates: It is the first and the most essential equipment invented by Joseph Pilate. It is typically made from the frames of bed and springs are also placed to strengthen the muscle of your body. This apparatus makes a huge difference among the other forms of Pilates. Reformer Pilates are frame made in rectangular shape made from iron or wood. It has a padded platform which is attached by the sides of the frame which is helpful in stretching the legs while running. It has foot bars and long ropes with handles joined with the pulleys. 

The Reformer Pilates works great in the following ways: 

• Spinal mobilization: Through reformer Pilates, passive movement of a spinal segment can be achieved aiming a therapeutic effect.
• Intensifying the core muscles and full body: Reformer Pilates work great in strengthening the abdominal muscles and also all other parts of the body.
• Improves flexibility: Reformer Pilates help in the easy movement of soft tissues such as joint capsules, ligaments, muscles, tendons and skin.
• Increase mobility: It eases the pain in joint of bones located in different parts of body and therefore helps in the smooth movement of our body.
• Quick recovery:  Reformer Pilates also helps in the fast recovery of the injured body part by relieving the pain of the bones or strained muscles.
• Toning the body: Reformer Pilates not only strengthens the core muscles but also gives a perfect shape to your whole body and giving you a toned body.
• Improves posture: Reformer Pilates have a great impact in correcting the posture alignments. It gives strength to your spine and makes it straight.

Reformer Pilates exercise also includes: 

• Footwork: In reformer Pilates, footwork is the first and most common exercise. While doing this you have to lie down on the foot bar keeping your both feet on it. It helps in proper movement of hips, pelvis and ankles. It strengthens the muscles of the feet.
• Long stretch:  It is generally moving plank. You have to stand on the reformer by holding a foot bar and placing your feet on head rest. It is a full body exercise.
• Chest expansion:  This exercise works best for back of the body including chest and shoulders. It improves the body posture and relieves back pain. 

The best thing of reformer Pilates is that anyone can do it irrespective of age, gender or body structure. It is the best way for toning your body, recovering from injury and improving postural alignments. Even a pregnant woman can do it under the guidance of the instructor. But it is always recommendable to consult with a doctor before doing reformer Pilates.

Share on Google Plus