A lot of times when people first get into Pilates and hear about a Pilates machine, the first one they encounter is the Reformer. Despite having a name that sounds like it might have been used in the Spanish Inquisition, this device is an amazing piece of equipment. It helps give you a very precise way to develop core strength, flexibility and proper body alignment.
Pilates as a system of exercise has really taken off in the last few years. Personal fitness is not only fast becoming the norm in modern society; it has also become a multi billion dollar industry. People are constantly looking for ways to improve themselves and their health. As such it is perfectly reasonable to wonder if a Pilates machine is the best in-home piece of equipment you could buy. Obviously only you can answer that question, but let’s look at Pilates a little closer.
Invented by it’s founder, Joseph Pilates, in the early part of the last century, Pilates has quickly gone on to rival such systems of exercise as yoga or Tai Chi. It is a no-to-low impact method that doesn’t have the potential of jamming up your joints like running on the street or a treadmill in the gym have. So how can a machine like the Pilates Reformer help you get into shape?
With its emphasis on strengthening the core groups of muscles, the machine adds resistance to the training. That can have a dramatic slimming affect to your body giving you a nice lean look.
This piece of Pilates equipment has three basic parts that define its function. The first is:
The Spring, Foot Bar, and Gear System- The gears adjust the height of the foot bar. These will allow you a great feeling of comfort to your exercises and make them for effective. The springs are color coded so that you can progress through a wide range of skill sets.
The Carriage- This is the part that you put your body on. By pushing on the foot bar or pulling at the straps, the carriage slides up and down with whatever level of resistance you have plugged into it.
Head Rest and Shoulder Blocks- A number of the exercises done on the Reformer are done on your back. The head rest can either put used in the down position or folded up out your way. The shoulder blocks help keep you stable as you push or pull while in the carriage. Both are designed for maximum comfort.
The straps, generally made of leather, are attached at the top of the reformer machine and allow you to pull with resistance. The use of a great Pilates machine take you a long way in your search for your personal best.
Thanks for reading this Pilates Machine Guide.
Tags: Joseph Pilates, Pilates, pilates equipment, pilates machine, pilates reformer, proper body alignment