An Introduction to Reformer Pilates: The Unique Benefits and History
Reformer Pilates has become an increasingly popular way to build strength, improve flexibility, and enhance mind-body awareness. This unique form of Pilates utilizes special equipment called a Reformer machine along with Pilates-based movements and principles.
In this article, we’ll cover:
What Makes Reformer Pilates Unique
The Benefits of Practicing on a Reformer
A Brief History of the Reformer and its Creator
Who Can Benefit from Reformer Pilates
Common Exercises and What to Expect in a Class
What Makes Reformer Pilates Special
Reformer Pilates differs from mat Pilates because of the specialized equipment involved. The Reformer machine consists of a sliding carriage that rolls back and forth on a frame. The carriage is connected to a series of springs that provide adjustable resistance. Other attachments like straps, bars, and pulleys can be added for variety.
The Reformer allows you to perform Pilates exercises while lying down, sitting, or standing. The resistance from the springs makes it more challenging than doing mat Pilates alone. The sliding carriage also enables greater range of motion for joint flexibility and mobility.
Key Benefits of Reformer Pilates
Using a Reformer machine offers many excellent benefits:
Builds core strength, muscle tone, and endurance throughout the entire body
Improves flexibility through full range of motion exercises
Enhances joint health and mobility
Develops stability, balance, and coordination
Provides gentle resistance with low impact on joints
Increases mind-body awareness and concentration
Relieves stress and tension
Can be customized for different fitness levels
A Reformer workout provides an excellent complement to cardiovascular and weight training routines. The method allows people who need low-impact exercise to still build strength efficiently. Many professional athletes even utilize Reformer Pilates for cross-training.
Brief History of the Reformer and its Origins
The Reformer machine traces its origins back to Joseph Pilates, creator of the Pilates Method, in the early 20th century. Originally from Germany, Pilates immigrated to England and later the United States.
While interned at a camp with fellow immigrants in England during World War I, Pilates began attaching springs to hospital beds to allow bedridden patients to exercise against resistance. This was the precursor to his later Reformer apparatus design.
After moving to New York in the 1920s, Pilates continued refining his unique exercise system. He opened a well-known studio where the Reformer machine evolved into the form used today. Many of Pilates' original Reformer exercises are still practiced in studios worldwide.
Who Can Benefit from Reformer Pilates?
One of the great aspects of Reformer Pilates is that it can benefit people of all ages and fitness levels. From beginners to experienced exercisers, many will find the method helps them reach their health and wellness goals.
It's an excellent choice for:
Beginners - the springs provide varying resistance levels so even those new to fitness can participate.
Experienced exercisers - the Reformer ramps up intensity options for a greater challenge.
Seniors - low-impact and gentle on joints while building strength.
Pre/post-natal women - provides pelvic floor conditioning and total body workout during pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
Rehab patients - improves mobility and range of motion after injury or surgery.
Athletes - enhances performance, power, and flexibility through cross-training.
Typical Exercises and What to Expect in a Class
A Reformer Pilates class generally includes a variety of movements to target all major muscle groups. Some typical exercises include:
The Hundred - activates core muscles and warms up the body
Footwork - inner thighs, glutes, legs
Arm work - biceps, triceps, shoulders
Chest/back expansion - upper body strength
Hip raises - gluteal muscles, hamstrings
Spine twist - improves spinal mobility and rotation
Front/side splits - enhances hip flexibility
Sessions are 45-60 minutes long. The instructor guides you through the sequenced movements while providing form corrections and exercise modifications as needed. Over time, you'll gain strength, stamina, and control of both your body and the Reformer carriage springs.
Reformer Pilates offers a fun, dynamic total body workout unlike any other Pilates method. If you're looking for a new challenge that will sculpt your body and mind, try a Reformer class at our studio. Our experienced instructors will help you get the most from your sessions. Contact us today to get started!