Getting to Know the Pilates Reformer
If you are intimidated by the name ‘Pilates Reformer’ or by the looks of it, you are not alone as many would-be Pilates participants have shied away from it. But before you discard the notion of using this exercise product altogether, often referred to as the Pilates bed, consider its numerous benefits. Designed by the creator of the Pilates movement himself, Joseph Pilates, its purpose is to maximize the effectiveness of a Pilates workout.
What Is It?
A Pilates reformer may be a relatively complex-looking apparatus, but
the concept behind its use is actually quite simple. Many of the Pilates
movements designed to strengthen the core and promote the development
of long, lean muscles are enhanced by the unit’s spring-form and
resistance bands. The reformer resembles a bed with spring-release foot
pedals at the bottom and resistance bands with handles at the top. The
carriage, a place where you rest your torso, slides back and forth across
the bed as you perform your Pilates workout.
Why Use It?
The Pilates reformer adds an element of intensity to the traditional Pilates
workout – the floor mat work cannot compete with it. The resistance
provided by the springs and bands makes each movement more precise and
effective, helping you achieve the weight loss goals and overall toned
appearance that you desire. The sliding carriage enables you to do a greater
number of exercises than you could do using a simple mat. In essence,
the reformer can help you build lean muscle mass, which translates into
less fat with none of the bulk associated with weight lifting.
Many Pilates fans find the reformer to be more fun than the simple floor workout; perhaps it is because of the constant motion associated with sliding back and forth across the bed. Essentially, this exercise product allows you to do effective, precise, and targeted Pilates exercises.
Cost and Space
Before you get hooked on the idea of having a Pilates Reformer in your
home, there are two factors you should consider, one of which is the price,
the other is space. The bottom line is that the high-end models of these
exercise products can set you back up to $4,000 dollars. As for space,
since the apparatus requires you to lie across it, it is usual for the
bed to be approximately eight-feet long. Hence, you need ample room in
your home or gym if you plan to make the exercise product a permanent
fixture.
However, if you are short on space or money, Pilates reformers come in fold-up versions that are typically less expensive than the sturdier, more permanent models. It still requires a considerable area when you open it up to use it, but you will have the option of using that space for other purposes when you are not doing Pilates.
Here is a good tip: Since the Pilates reformer is a substantial investment, even if you opt for one of the less expensive models, you should try it before you buy it in order to ensure long-lasting satisfaction.