The Reformer is an iconic piece of exercise equipment created by Joseph Pilates to help heal injuries and re-form the body, thus the name. Essentially, it is a padded platform on a bed-like frame that slides back and forth on wheels.

The platform, called a carriage, is attached at one end by a set of springs. To move the carriage, you either push against a padded foot bar located at the spring end of the carriage or pull against ropes attached via pulleys at the opposite end of the carriage. Both legs and arms can be used for pushing and pulling. Also, there is a detachable jump board that lets you push off with your feet while lying on your back to simulate jumping in the air, which is quite fun. The springs can be adjusted to increase or decrease the resistance and make the carriage easier or harder to move. Surprisingly, some exercises are more difficult with fewer springs engaged.

The beauty of the Reformer is its flexibility and versatility; you can push and pull forwards, backwards or sideways with either your arms or your legs while you lie, sit, kneel or stand on the carriage. You can put your hands or your feet in the straps or use one hand and one foot. The foot bar allows you to push with your feet and pull with your arms at the same time. With some exercises, you use the straps while standing or kneeling on the floor. The possible combinations of movements are almost endless, allowing trainers to dial in on the exact muscles or movements that need attention.

Reformer workouts have zero impact, and the pulley-and-spring system offers variable resistance to match your ability. Thus, two people working side by side doing the same exercise on identical Reformers can experience vastly different intensities of workouts.

Using a Reformer enables you to attain better posture and coordination, move more gracefully and efficiently, avoid injuries, and find relief from back pain. The resistive movements help build stronger bones and long, strong muscles without bulk. What’s not to love?

Want to try a Reformer? Purchase a Suna Intro Pack, which gives you three Reformer and three Fit classes, for only $60. Additional Intro Packs are available at sunapilates.co.nz

Suna Pilates
1 Barrys Point Road, Takapuna
09 489 1987
info@sunapilates.co.nz
sunapilates.co.nz