Without diving into explaining the Pilates reformer right out of the gate, we can say that this machinery is one of the most influential pieces of equipment in any top-of-the-line Pilates studio.
Even though it might look rather foreboding, the reformer machine is great for both beginning Pilates students as well as experienced enthusiasts.
But how did it come into being?
The Evolution of the Pilates Reformer
The namesake of the Pilates system of movement is Joseph Pilates. He was born near Dusseldorf, Germany, in 1883 and was a sickly child. He didn’t let illness overcome him though. Instead, he went on to excel in gymnastics, diving, bodybuilding, and other physical pursuits.
Pilates was interested in and studied Eastern and Western forms of exercise and philosophies. In 1912, he traveled to the Isle of Man in Britain. But when World War I broke out a few years later, he was interned at a camp with other German nationals.
To keep himself busy while there, he taught and practiced a physical fitness program that he was developing which was influenced by the movements in yoga, as well as those of animals. While in the camp, he began to build apparatuses that would aid in rehabilitating sick, injured, or disabled prisoners. To build these devices, he used bed springs and beer keg rings to create resistance.
He returned to Germany after the war. Despite the German army wanting him to train with them, he emigrated to the United States. He would meet his future wife, Clara, on the boat to New York City and they’d go on to establish a studio there. Working side by side with Clara, Pilates continued to develop his method of exercise and invent exercise equipment based on his early models. He filed for the first patent for the “Universal Reformer” in 1926.
Explaining the Pilates Reformer in More Detail
So then what exactly is a reformer?
A reformer consists of a sliding carriage, color-coded springs, cords, and shoulder blocks. Classic reformers were usually made of wood but more modern versions are constructed of metal.
There are home reformers and studio reformers. Home reformers use cords for adjusting tension. Studio reformers, on the other hand, are outfitted with customizable springs.
When you get on the reformer, you sit or lay down on the sliding carriage – which is similar to a bed. The shoulder blocks keep you in place. For studio reformers, color-coded springs are hooked onto special gears. Blue and yellow indicate less tension while green and red springs indicate higher tension. Since different muscles require different forms of tension, the springs are switched out to adapt to changing experience levels. This ensures that the movement is always a challenge.
In addition, when you work with an experienced Pilates instructor to find the right routines and continue to advance in your practice, tools such as a hand bar, foot bar, platform, and other gadgets can be added.
So Then What Is Reformer Pilates?
At its foundation, reformer Pilates is similar to mat work. The resistance, however, adds a whole other dimension.
The reformer involves eccentric and concentric movements to focus on muscle tone and core strength. And unlike high-impact exercise systems, Pilates reformer movements are mindful and prioritize focus, pacing, and balance. Because of this mindfulness, they safely increase flexibility and coordination, while providing a sense of calm.
As such, reformer Pilates is ideal for just about everyone – including those with previous injuries or joint pain. And with such a wide array of movements and options, it’s likely you’ll never get bored while using a Pilates reformer!
Is Reformer Pilates Right for You?
While it might seem intimidating, we hope that our explaining the Pilates reformer has made it less so.
There’s nothing to fear!
So if you’re ready to see what reformer Pilates can do for you, contact us today. Our highly skilled instructors can get you started on this life-changing form of exercise.