The Truth About Reformer Pilates
Everyone is going crazy about Reformer Pilates! But why? What’s all the fuss about?
Well, Pilates reformer came about from Joseph Pilates, he always described his exercises as ‘Body Conditioning’ his main focus was always on strong, hard, physical workouts. Joseph clearly describes his equipment as “Gymnastics apparatus” and the reformer bed is better known as an exercises apparatus.
The Pilates Reformer is an exercise machine used to incorporate the Pilates exercise technique for an intensified workout. Springs, leverage and body weight are used as resistance while performing movements targeting specific muscle groups. Workouts consist of controlled, flowing movements working your muscles through a full range of motion. The reformer adds increased resistance to the movement.
Studies have shown that performing Pilates reformer for two, one-hour sessions a week for twelve weeks was highly effective in improving abdominal strength, upper spine posture as well as stabilising core posture. Pilates is also a great exercise for improving flexibility of the lower back, enhanced pelvic stability and mobility through the trunk.
Exercising on the Pilates Reformer requires proper form and technique. The focus of proper positioning is within the core, your abdomen and lower back muscles.
As you progress through your reformer practice and build your core strength; movements will become easier. By conditioning the core muscles, they will contract with all movements to stabilise and align your spine.
A strong core will increase the effectiveness of all exercises due to your ability to maintain proper alignment. Core strength increases your ability to generate power to your muscles and decreases the risk of injury.
Not only are you going to have the benefits of a stronger core, increased flexibility and great posture; Pilates reformer is a fun and great way to exercise for those wanting to lose weight, tone up and increase overall flexibility.
The beauty of reformer Pilates is that, unlike some other physical activity, it can be done everyday. One important difference between mat Pilates and reformer Pilates is that there are so many more movements and exercises on the reformer – without even getting too into the equipment.
Exercising is one of the key players in getting that extra energy we all want and need. After a class of reformer Pilates, you will immediately feel better and energised.
The best part of all about reformer Pilates is that everyone can do it!
The beauty of doing it on the reformer is that you can adjust the level of intensity to suit your own body, using the springs.
There really is no reason to not be doing reformer Pilates.