What is a Pilates Reformer?
The number one question a Pilates instructor hears…what is a reformer? A scary contraption with too many components, NO WAY!
A reformer is the original piece of equipment that Joseph Pilates created in the 1900’s. His invention was based roughly on a moveable hospital bed, with springs.
The reformers at our studio are still a bed-like frame with a flat platform on it, called a carriage; the carriage is a padded mat which rolls back and forth on wheels within the frame. The carriage is attached to the reformer by a set of springs. The springs provide different levels of resistance as the carriage is pushed or pulled along the frame. The carriage has shoulder blocks on it that keep you in place when pushing or pulling the carriage. At the spring end of the reformer there is an adjustable bar called a foot bar. The foot bar can be used by the feet or hands as you move the carriage. The reformer also has long straps with handles or loops on them that are attached to the top end of the frame. They can be pulled with legs or arms to move the carriage as well. Body weight and resistance of the springs are what make the exercises more or less difficult. Reformer parts are completely adjustable for all body types and skill levels.
The Reformer is used for a full body workout. Exercises on the Reformer tone your core, lower legs, inner thighs, outer thighs, hips, bottom, whole back, arms, neck and shoulders. You will increase your heart rate, balance control, flexibility, lung capacity, circulation and concentration. The Reformer exercises will also enhance your coordination, rhythm, and stability.
“In 10 sessions you will, you’ll feel different. In 20 sessions, you’ll look different. And in 30 sessions, you’ll have a new body.” Joseph Pilates
Reformer lessons last about 50 minutes. You may spend your entire session on the Reformer, 
but depending on your instructor and what your body needs; you will likely be using the mat at some point in the lesson. It is recommended that you do Pilates 1-3 times a week. This is especially important when you are starting out, so that your body can learn this new form of moving. You can combine your Reformer workout with mat classes and other private equipment lessons as well.
What other Pilates reformer questions do you have? We are here to help!
Your first Reformer Class is only $15… email info@h2lstudio.com with questions.