Pilates devotees know that this exercise has numerous benefits. Studio SWEAT OnDemand Pilates trainer Sam Belle says that Pilates can improve mobility, core strength and balance. Specifically, “pilates moves the spine in all four planes of motion, and focuses on rebalancing the inevitable imbalances we all have due to our daily activities and postures,” she explains.
That said—have you tried a Pilates reformer yet?
Sure, you can achieve all the feel-good benefits of pilates—improved core strength and flexibility, reduced back pain, improved posture, and the like—without equipment or in-person classes. There are other benefits. AreThere are some perks to doing reformer-based exercises, but these are not the only ones.
What do you mean, you ask? “The machine works your entire body,” explains Carrie Minter, certified Pilates instructor and founder of Carrie’s Pilates Plus in Los Angeles. “The springs and cables on it change the tension, so you get much more of a workout than you would on just a mat,” she says.
One of the best ways for trainers to call it a “reformer” is to work out with one.Progressive overloadBelle says to make your body stronger by challenging it. Belle suggests increasing the tension in your muscles and forcing them to adapt. “Heavier tension makes some exercises on the machine more challenging, while a lighter spring can make other exercises significantly more difficult by providing less support,” Belle explains.
She also points out that heavier is not always easier. “With this machine, we can work the bigger superficial muscles by increasing the tension, and strengthen smaller stabilizers with less support,” says Belle.
Did you get all that? Now, some details before you hit ‘add to cart’ on one of the below best pilates reformers.
How to Buy a Pilates Reformer
Here are four things to keep in mind when shopping for a Pilates mat:
- Cheaper is not always better. Of course, one of the biggest things you’re likely to focus on is budget. “You get what you pay for. A reformer is a big investment, and you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the highest quality product,” says Belle. “I would definitely recommend going for a well-known manufacturer. And make sure to keep up on the maintenance to get the most out of your machine.” (She is a fan of Balanced Body reformers.)
- Know your space. It’s no secret that reformers can be space suckers, so figure out how much room you have to dedicate to your reformer. “If you have the space for a reformer that will live in your home permanently, go with something heavy and sturdy,” says Belle. “If you plan to take the machine out of its storage space to use when you want, there are portable and foldable options that are great for saving space.”
- Choose the right height Consider how low you want your machine to be. “Working with injuries, limitations, and aging can be an issue when getting onto the reformer. Some models are very low to the ground, which can make it difficult for some people to get on,” says Belle. Belle notes that many reformers offer the option to add legs to raise their reformer a bit higher. “This also provides an added challenge for some movements since the further you are from the moving carriage, the more unstable you are,” says Belle.
- Consider accessories. “Props are most often not included with the machine, so if you like using the box or jumpboard, make sure to include those items with your purchase,” says Belle. “Platform extenders are great for anyone with larger feet, as well as to provide more support and stability for standing work. And a Pilates ring and 8- to 10-inch inflatable ball are great props to add to your reformer repertoire.”
These are the 10 Best Pilates Reformers You Can Buy Right Now
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Source: Women’s Health Mag