Reformer Pilates: What is it and what can it do?
It’s no news that Pilates is an amazing type of exercise, but what exactly are the benefits of this type of practice?
The Reformer is a piece of equipment that further aids the practice with different spring options for more resistance, equipment such as light weights and the magic circle.
The classes are usually 50-60 minutes long and will include breathing exercises, stretching and sculpting work, using your whole body, all while listening to select playlists with good tunes to get you going.
We’ve listed 9 incredible reasons for you to discover some of the benefits of doing reformer pilates – let this inspire and encourage you to come and try a class at our beautiful King Studio!
1. Everyone can do it!
Some forms of exercise may seem daunting if you’re unsure of your own physical capabilities, but Pilates really is something everyone can do. The classes are small and the teacher will always give you individual attention to assist you with any problems you may have. It is the most gentle, safe and effective way to exercise, and the beauty of doing it on the reformer is that you can adjust the level of intensity to suit your own body, using the springs.
2. Tone and Reshape
If you’ve done mat Pilates before, you’re likely to know what amazing core-strengthening work it is. Now add on the resistance of the reformer as well as the light weights and you got yourself a whole new artillery to tone up your body with! It is unquestionable that reformer Pilates is a way to – literally – reshape your body. You will never bulk up with Pilates- instead, you can expect that envious long, lean, graceful tone. “In 10 sessions, you feel better, 20 sessions you look better, 30 sessions you have a completely new body.”- that is a quote from the founder of the practice, Joseph Pilates. We can testify to the truth of this saying. Don’t believe us?
3. Rehabilitate
The reformer is a great way to start exercising after an injury. The equipment is so gentle, and this combined with the fundamental principles of Pilates – precise movements performed in a safe way – will help you regain your strength and posture. If you have back injuries or muscular imbalance, it’s a great way to regain your strength. The focus on postural work during class will help your spinal alignment and continued practice will help decrease the risk of future injuries.
4. Pregnancy Friendly
During pregnancy, it can be hard to find workouts to suit your changing body. Pilates is excellent for expecting women, as it incorporates core, pelvic floor and posture exercises. Doing Pilates while you’re pregnant will significantly help you recover after giving birth – not only will you have an easier time physically caring for your new bundle of joy, you will also bounce back quicker to the shape you were before. If you have questions about working out during pregnancy, don’t hesitate to ask at reception – we offer 1-1 consultation on exercise and nutrition, which can help you during and after your 9 months!
5. Weight Loss
Strengthening exercises are imperative to any weigh loss regime. You already know the reformer can work wonders to tone you up, but it can also help you shred. During class, you will definitely feel your heart racing, and depending on the level of the class and your own fitness, practice can get positively sweat-dripping. For more intensity we offer Circuit reformer, a 50 min 12 line circuit that will surly get you pumping. We will soon offer an extended Standard class that will include cardio and extra stretching!
6. Flexibility
Not only will you strengthen and slim down – you’ll also get more flexible from doing reformer Pilates. Being more flexible will reduce any stiffness and soreness as well as aid that quest for those long, lean muscles.
7. Everyday
The beauty of reformer Pilates is that, unlike some other physical activity, it can be done everyday. It is gentle enough that it wont tear our muscles, yet can be challenging enough to keep you excited. One important difference between mat Pilates and reformer Pilates is that there are so many more movements and exercises on the reformer – without even getting too into the equipment, there are over 250 movements! The variety of the classes teamed with the skill and focus of the trainer will ensure that your class will always be different, hitting your body and your mind from all different angles
8. Breathing
Breathing exercises are always part of the class. Your breathing is absolutely fundamental for your well being, and if you come to class, you’ll discover new ways to utilizing your breath to maximize your energy. Building on the concept of core, back and postural strength, the breath links it all together and if you know how to breathe right, you can reduce stress levels and find focus easier in your daily life as well as during class.
9. Energy
Exercising is one of the key players in getting that extra energy we all want and need. It is just incredible how much just a little difference in your physical habits can make – after a class of reformer pilates, you will immediately feel better – exercise releases endorphins, also known as the happy hormone. But you wont only feel it after class – regular exercise will help you gain more energy everyday, even on days you’re not working out. So you can ditch the Red Bull – do some Pilates instead!