Before I write about the Pilates Reformer, I want to make a brief mention of its inventor. There he was, Joseph Pilates, the future founder of one of the world’s most well-known systems of modern exercise, sitting in a detention center in England because of his German heritage. Joe had already started on his system he called “Contrology”. At that time he began experimenting with the springs in his prison bed to see how he could use them in strengthening his body. Thus began the evolution to what we now call the Pilates Reformer.
This Pilates machine can help define core strength through precise movements. The core essential muscle groups are worked so as to create lean muscle mass throughout the entire body. Pilates as an exercise system, is designed to take anyone, regardless of their fitness level, by using groups of exercise of low intensity, to perfect health. Not everyone wants or needs high velocity cardio workouts.
While much of the work developed by Joe Pilates can be done on a mat with no other equipment required, a Pilates Reformer is actually far more effective than any of the resistance exercises you may already be practicing with. In that the majority of Pilates are done lying on the back, the Reformer is the perfect device and is ingenious in its design. Let’s take a good look at this machine from the ground up. First we come to the:
Foot Bar- This can be adjusted to your own height and comfort level by using the notches and springs provided. Next,
The Springs themselves- These are what give you the resistance that you’re looking for and are color coded for easy usage. Next comes the main structure of the Pilates Reformer machine,
The Carriage- This is the part of the machine that “carries” your body. The foot bar, straps and springs move the carriage which in turn adds to the resistance factor. The whole machine is designed to allow you to sit, kneel, or lie on the carriage. This will show you the actual wide variety of exercises that can be introduced while using the machine.
The whole point of Pilates is to strengthen the muscles of the abdominals, lower back and pelvis amongst other muscle groups. Of course it is always suggested that you seek out an expert instructor whether you are working out with the floor exercises or with the Pilates Reformer itself.
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