The Pilates Reformer

I am very pleased to announce that we will be taking delivery of a Peak Pilates Reformer this week.  The reformer is a fantastic piece of equipment which really does reform the body!

pilates reformer in the log cabin

A Pilates Reformer in action

What is a Pilates Reformer?

Invented by Joseph Pilates himself, the reformer is a bed-like frame with a flat platform on it, called the carriage, which rolls back and forth on wheels within the frame. The carriage is attached to one end of the reformer by a set of springs. The springs provide resistance as the carriage is pushed or pulled along the frame.

There are hundreds of exercises which can be performed on the reformer, from basic ‘footwork’ to more advance movements.  The reformer can be adjusted for all body sizes and skill levels.

Who should use the Reformer?

Everyone!  The reformer is so versatile; exercises on it can be done lying down, sitting, standing, with hands in the straps, feet in the straps, sideways and many other variations.

The reformer is perfect for rehab, particularly those of you with back problems as the reformer supports the back in supine exercises.  At the same time, the resistance provided by the springs promotes the lengthening and strengthening of muscles.

Along with strengthening and lengthening the muscles, the reformer improves flexibility, co-ordination and balance.  It helps to build the muscles of the core quickly and you will see and feel results in a short time.

At In the Log Cabin, Clare’s skilled eye will ensure you are performing the exercises correctly and you will therefore notice the benefits more quickly.  In large group classes there is a tendency to just ‘do’ the exercises without thought to how the body is moving and which muscles are working.  Clare will make sure that you are using the muscles as you should do – no cheating!

The reformer is an incredible piece of equipment which is large enough to encourage full range of motion of the body.  The moving carriage provides instability which in turn challenges the body and helps develop a strong core and promotes balance.  There are five springs which provide differing levels of resistance.  It is not always the case of the more springs the harder the exercise.  The stronger springs mean the carriage becomes more stable and sometimes it is when the springs are at their lightest that the exercises become most difficult.

Mat or Reformer Pilates?

I am a great believer of mat work Pilates.  This is because we utilise our own body strength to stabilise, strengthen and lengthen the body.  Amazing results can be seen from the use of mat work alone however it can be challenging for those who have specific issues.  I think this is where the reformer comes into its own.

Reformer Pilates was originally used to break down the flowing movements of the mat work to strengthen an individual and get them to a level to which they can do the mat work effectively.  There are many hundreds of exercises for the reformer and generally speaking will work more parts of the body at once compared with the original classical mat work repertoire.

It is my belief that a combination of mat work and reformer work will provide the quickest changes to the body and everyone will benefit greatly from a one to one on the reformer even if you can only manage a personal session occasionally.

It looks like something from 50 Shades….

Yes, the Reformer is a slightly terrifying looking piece of equipment but don’t be scared!  Put your fears aside and prepare to have your body reformed!