When most people think of Pilates, they imagine a mat on the floor with slow, controlled movements. While mat Pilates is certainly a popular option, Pilates on a reformer takes things to a whole new level. The reformer is a versatile piece of equipment that adds resistance, stability challenges, and variety to your workout—making it one of the most effective ways to build strength, improve flexibility, and enhance body awareness.
What is a Pilates Reformer?
A Pilates reformer looks a bit like a bed frame with a flat platform called the carriage, which rolls back and forth on wheels. Springs, straps, and a footbar provide resistance and support, allowing for countless exercises that work your entire body. Unlike some exercise machines that isolate specific muscles, the reformer emphasizes whole-body movement and core control.
Key Parts of the Reformer and Their Functions
- Carriage: The moving platform you lie, sit, kneel, or stand on. It’s the heart of the reformer and allows for smooth, controlled motion.
- Springs: These are adjustable to add or reduce resistance. Heavier springs create more strength-focused work, while lighter springs challenge your balance and stability.
- Footbar: Positioned at one end of the reformer, this bar is used to push off with your hands or feet, helping to activate legs, glutes, and arms.
- Straps/Handles: Attached to pulleys, these can be held in your hands or looped around your feet. They’re used for arm, leg, and core exercises with varying levels of resistance.
- Headrest & Shoulder Blocks: These provide comfort and alignment as you perform different movements on the carriage.
- Box (Optional Accessory): A padded box that sits on top of the carriage to expand the exercise repertoire, allowing for prone, seated, and side-lying positions.
Types of Exercises on the Reformer
- Leg & Glute Workouts: Exercises like footwork series and lunges on the carriage target lower body strength while maintaining core stability.
- Core Strengthening: Movements such as long stretch or short spine massage train deep abdominal muscles while also improving spinal flexibility.
- Upper Body Training: Using the straps, you can perform arm pulls, chest expansions, and triceps presses to tone the shoulders and arms.
- Flexibility & Mobility: Many reformer exercises involve dynamic stretching, helping to lengthen tight muscles while strengthening them at the same time.
- Balance & Coordination: Standing work on the reformer challenges stability and body awareness, which translates into better movement in everyday life.
If you’re unfamiliar with reformer Pilates workouts, it’s best to work with a certified Pilates instructor who can guide you with safe, effective movements. Sign up at Elite Sports Clubs to start working with our certified Pilates instructor!
Who Can Benefit from Reformer Pilates?
The beauty of the reformer is its adaptability. Nearly anyone can benefit, including:
- Beginners – The guided movements and adjustable springs make it accessible, even if you’ve never done Pilates before.
- Athletes – Reformer work enhances strength, flexibility, and control, improving performance in sports like tennis, running, and swimming.
- Rehabilitation Clients – Because the reformer is low-impact and supportive, it’s often used in physical therapy for injury recovery.
- Older Adults – The reformer builds strength and balance in a safe, controlled way, helping to maintain independence.
- Anyone Seeking Variety – With hundreds of possible exercises, reformer Pilates never feels repetitive.
Reformer Pilates at Elite Sports Clubs
Pilates reformer workouts combine resistance, movement, and mindful control to strengthen the body from the inside out. Whether you’re looking to recover from injury, boost athletic performance, or simply add variety to your routine, the reformer offers a unique and effective approach to fitness. Check it out today at our Elite Sports Club-Brookfield location!