Everything You Need to Know About Reformer Pilates Before Signing Up for a Class

While Pilates is by no means a new workout method, the focus has shifted from the mat to something called a reformer machine, a flat piece of exercise equipment that incorporates pulleys and springs. We talk to Chandler Rossi, owner of Pilates Laboratory in Ruxton, about reformer Pilates and its benefits.

What is reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates encompasses the background and foundational principles of mat Pilates but is performed on a reformer machine. While the movements can affect your entire body, the focus is really about being mindful of your core and how it helps to power each movement. The great thing about the reformer is that you’re able to manually load resistance—which is controlled by springs on the machine—to match your needs or experience level.

What are the benefits?
Obviously, the ability to take time for yourself and be present in class is huge for your mental health. But physically it’s a great way to gain strength through lengthening, toning, and sculpting your muscles. It is particularly helpful for people dealing with back pain, hip tightness, or wanting to better their posture. It’s very customizable in that you can increase or decrease resistance throughout the class or when targeting certain muscle groups. Another benefit is [smaller] class size and the ability for your instructor to give you more personalized attention.

Who would benefit most from reformer Pilates?
Reformers are for anyone and everyone—that’s the glory of reformer Pilates. It’s a great resource for those who are post injury or postpartum just because of the strengthening, customization, and awareness it brings to your movement. You can easily alter the machine’s settings and any of the Pilates movements to meet you where you are in terms of fitness. It can also be beneficial for people who golf, play tennis, or do any other sort of activity where there is a swing, push, or pull, because it has that rotational aspect that connects to your core.

What are some misconceptions about reformer Pilates?
I think some people think of Pilates as stretching or yoga, and it is not that. There is a false belief that when we are tense or tight, it’s because we aren’t stretching enough and that stretching will help us be more flexible. That is not always true. With Pilates you will find strength and length but it is going to challenge you so that you are able to see results. I also think the reformer might be intimidating to some who haven’t used it before, but it can actually help a lot with your form. However, if you are nervous about trying it out, I would suggest maybe signing up for a private class until you feel more comfortable using the machine.

WHAT YOU NEED:

GET A GRIP: Wear a pair of grip socks to provide extra support and stability to your feet and ankles.

THAT’S A STRETCH: Wear fitted, stretchy spandex exercise clothes during your workout for freedom of movement.

HYDRATION IS KEY: Don’t forget your water bottle! While reformer Pilates is a low-impact exercise, you will still need to stay hydrated.