A Pilates Reformer workout

The original Pilates method consisted of 34 exercises performed as mat work; on a padded mat on the floor. Joseph Pilates, the founder of the Pilates Method, later invented several pieces of equipment, each designed for use with its own specific set of exercises. Most of the exercises performed on the various Pilates equipment or machines were for resistance training, making use of the greater resistance that the springs brought to the training. The use of springs results in "progressive resistance", which means that the more the spring is stretched, the greater the resistance.

The most common piece of Pilates equipment is the Reformer, but there are other machines like the Cadillac (also known as the Trapeze Table), the Ladder Barrel, and the Wunda Chair that are often used in a modern Pilates studio.

Whether you use the added resistance of Pilates springs and equipment, or the constant resistance of gravity in mat work, the Pilates Method quickly develops strength and develops proper alignment and posture while increasing flexibility.

The Pilates Reformer is by far the most popular piece of Pilates equipment. It was invented in the 1920s by Joseph Pilates, the founder of the Pilates Method. The Reformer is still widely used and extremely popular due to its versatility. Many of the Pilates exercises can be done in the Reformer, you can do mat work, spring exercises and Cadillac exercises on the platform.

There are many benefits to using a Pilates reformer. You will develop strength in your arms, legs, abs and back muscles ... your "nerve center". Pilates emphasizes the importance of building a strong core, and all Pilates exercises start from this core and slowly move into the muscles of the arms and legs. The many stretching and stretching exercises are designed to lengthen and tone muscles without increasing volume.

The Pilates reformer was originally built for the rehabilitation of joint injuries and is still widely used for that purpose. It is also popular with professional athletes who use the Reformer exercises to strengthen their muscles and improve their cardiovascular fitness.

Many pilates great neck instructors recommend mats for beginners. Working with mats is a good way to learn to control your muscles during exercises without having to deal with the extra difficulty of the equipment. Most students will be ready to add the Reformer after practicing the Pilates Method for about three months. One of the advantages of using a mat workout is its convenience, you don't need anything more than a Pilates mat; And if you prefer to train in the comfort of your home, there are many great Pilates DVDs that you can use for instruction. A Pilates DVD with a certified instructor can be found at all levels and will provide excellent training.

When you're ready to add a Pilates reformer to your workout, you can join a reformer class or even buy one for your home. There are many reformers on the market that are reasonably priced and designed for home use. These often come with an instructional DVD to get you started.