Top 5 Myths about the Pilates Reformer - Busted!
Posted October 26, 2021
At first glance, the Pilates reformer can seem extremely intimidating – what are all those pulleys, and where does that go? Uncertainty and inexperience have lead to the creation of some really interesting myths. And we’re going to bust them all!
First Things First - What is a Reformer?
The Pilates reformer is a type of Pilates equipment. The reformer was developed by Joseph Pilates and is a type of Pilates exercise apparatus that can arguably provide a more intense workout than mat Pilates exercises. It is a bed-like frame with a flat platform, called the carriage, on top which rolls backward and forwards on wheels. There is also a footbar at the end of the reformer which is adjustable and holds springs. At the top of the frame, opposite the footbar, there are also some straps with handles that you can place your feet or hands into, depending on the exercise.
The reformer is a highly customisable piece of equipment that makes it possible for people of almost any body type to use it to exercise. It’s a great choice for those looking to improve their core stability and achieve good postural alignment. It’s also perfect for toning up, rehabilitating your body after an injury, or getting a thorough, full-body workout.
How is a Reformer Used?
A number of exercises can be done on the reformer. Each exercise was developed by Joseph Pilates to promote strength, flexibility and balance. For the most part, Pilates exercises done on the reformer use the carriage and require you to push, pull or hold the carriage steady during your workout. There are many, many different types of reformer exercises available, even for beginners!
While it can be a tricky piece of equipment to master, the reformer is extremely versatile. When using the reformer in your Pilates exercises, you can exercise standing up, sitting down, lying down, pulling on the straps, using the footbar, being perched on the footbar, using additional equipment like boxes or rings, and even be upside down!
Pilates can assist in reducing or managing feelings of depression by providing the opportunity to socialise with others; by changing the levels of important chemicals in the brain (such as serotonin, endorphins, and cortisol); and even by providing a distraction from the elements in our lives that cause us to feel anxious, depressed or stressed. Pilates places a large emphasis on mindfulness and breathing during exercise, which can extend past your workout regime and into the daily managing of your life, helping you to become a calmer, more self-aware person.
While it can be a tricky piece of equipment to master, the reformer is extremely versatile. When using the reformer in your Pilates exercises, you can exercise standing up, sitting down, lying down, pulling on the straps, using the footbar, being perched on the footbar, using additional equipment like boxes or rings, and even be upside down!
Top 5 Myths about the Pilates Reformer
Top Busted Pilates Reformer Myths
Myth – Reformer Pilates is only for women
Truth – Definitely not true! Everyone can use and benefit from using the reformer, including men. Tiger Woods is one of several male athletes who added reformer Pilates to their exercise routine and who reaped the benefits!
Myth – You have to be very flexible to use the reformer
Truth – Pilates is the perfect exercise to improve your flexibility. By improving your flexibility, you reduce your chances of injury and increase your body’s range of motion. If your current level of flexibility isn’t suitable for safe use of the reformer, we offer beginner classes to help introduce you to Pilates and master the basics first.
Myth – Pilates is ‘Just’ Stretching
Truth – Reformer Pilates provides a full-body workout using resistance training exercise routines. As a fully customisable piece of equipment, your workout route can be completely tailored to you and your goals, ensuring that every workout is a challenge.
Myth – Pilates is Easy
Truth – After your first reformer Pilates class, you may no longer think so! Unlike a lot of exercise equipment out there, the reformer can be set up in a completely custom way. Almost everything can be adjusted, tightened, moved, loosened – whatever is required to keep that edge on your workout and provide you with a challenge.
Myth – Reformers are Dangerous or Hard to Use
Truth – In the wrong hands, even the most basic exercise equipment can become dangerous. That’s why, at our Club Pilates studios, we entrust our members to fully trained, completely experienced Pilates instructors who can not only use the reformer safely themselves but can make sure that you are safe and secure when using one as well. Proper training is key to mastering the reformer and getting the most out of your workouts.
What to Expect from Your First Pilates Class
Ready to Try the Pilates Reformer?
The Pilates reformer is a well-developed exercise machine that can help people of all ages become stronger and healthier. It is designed to work almost all of your body, leading to greater overall strength, posture, alignment and balance.
Club Pilates is a forward-thinking, passionate and growing Pilates franchise with several locations in Queensland, including Noosa, North Lakes and Sippy Downs., with up and coming locations in Innaloo and Unley. Our Pilates instructors are highly trained professionals that are fully equipped to help you get into an exercise regime with the Pilates reformer that will work for you! The reformer only intensifies these benefits, giving you all the more reason to sign up and get started!
