Reformer Pilates: Get to Know the Equipment

Reformer Pilates is a popular form of exercise that uses specialised equipment to help improve strength, flexibility, and overall fitness. In this guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about the different types of equipment you might see in a reformer Pilates class, including the different types of machines, how to use them, and the benefits of incorporating this dynamic workout into your fitness routine. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced practitioner, this guide has something for everyone.

What is reformer Pilates?

Reformer Pilates is a type of exercise that uses a specialised machine called a reformer to help improve strength, flexibility, and overall fitness. The reformer consists of a sliding carriage that is attached to springs and pulleys, which provide resistance as you move through a series of exercises. The machine can be adjusted to different levels of resistance, making it suitable for people of all fitness levels. Reformer Pilates is a low-impact workout that is gentle on the joints, making it a great option for people with injuries or chronic pain.

Understanding the different types of reformer machines.

If you’re a brand newbie to reformer Pilates, you might feel a little daunted at the prospect of turning up to a class and having to figure out what all the machines do and how to use them. Never fear – we’ve created this helpful guide to introduce you to some of the machines you’ll likely experience in a reformer Pilates class at The Body Method.

One of great things about our Tugun-based studio, is that we don’t just have your traditional reformer beds – we have a variety of machines that you’ll get to experience. Many of our teachers like to run their classes as a circuit, whereby you’ll get to use each machine for a period of time before moving onto the next. Familiarising yourself with the equipment before you head to class can be a great way to maximise your time in the studio and make the most of your class. Let’s take a look at some of the equipment now:

Pilates Reformer

The Pilates reformer machine is an excellent tool for building strength, flexibility, and balance, and can be used by Pilates practitioners of all levels, from beginners to advanced.

The machine consists of a flat, padded platform called a carriage that rolls back and forth on a frame. The carriage is attached to a system of springs and ropes that provide varying levels of resistance.

The reformer also has adjustable foot and hand straps that are incorporated into different exercises, providing stability, resistance and variety to the movements. There are several different exercises that can be performed on the reformer, which target different parts of the body and can be tailored to different fitness levels.

Pilates Cadillac Reformer

The Cadillac reformer is just like the reformer, with the addition of vertical and horizontal bars that create a frame above the bed. These bars have variations of straps and pulleys attached to them. The Cadillac reformer is sometimes also referred to as a trapeze table, as it often includes a trapeze-like bar that can be used for hanging exercises.

The Cadillac reformer is particularly useful for Pilates exercises that focus on strengthening the upper body, such as the arms, shoulders, and back. It can also be used for exercises that target the legs and hips, as well as for stretching and flexibility exercises.

Pilates Chair

The Pilates chair is another piece of equipment used in Pilates workouts and consists of a seat and pedals or footrests. Don’t be fooled by its name though – the chair doesn’t just mean you’ll be sitting down. Instead, expect to be challenged in a number of different positions and perform a variety of exercises that focus on building strength and stability in the legs, hips, and core muscles.

The Pilates chair is particularly useful for exercises that require you to balance and stabilise yourself, as the small surface area of the pedals or footrests makes it more challenging to maintain balance. There are many variations of exercises that can be performed on the chair, ranging from simple movements to more complex sequences.

Pilates Ladder Barrel

The Pilates ladder barrel is a wooden piece of Pilates apparatus that consists of a rounded barrel shape with a padded surface on top and a small ladder, positioned next to it.

The Pilates barrel is designed to aid in the development of core strength, spinal flexibility, and improved posture. It can be used to perform a variety of exercises that help to stretch and strengthen the muscles in the back, hips, legs, and shoulders. The barrel's curved surface provides support for the spine, allowing for a greater range of motion in exercises.

Pilates Accessories: Mats, Rollers, Boxes, Weights, Balls & Hoops

As part of any Pilates reformer routine, you can expect some accessories to be included, taking your workout to new heights (and an all-new level of burn, shake and tremor!). Some classes may incorporate elements where you just use a mat, such as in our stretch, roll & release classes – where you’ll use the roller to release tight and sore muscles. Boxes can be added to your reformer machine to activate different muscles, particularly when used for prone-position movements (as pictured above), for side-stretches and abdominal workouts. Weights can be utilised for sculpting and strengthening exercises, and even though we generally only use 1-2kg weights, you’ll be surprised by their effect. Finally, Pilates balls and hoops can add a little extra challenge to your movement. Balls and hoops can be placed in between thighs and ankles, as well as held in the hands. Balls are also sometimes placed below the pelvis or behind the knees to provide extra stability and focus on core strength.

Reformer Pilates offers a unique set of exercises that can tone your body and help you reach your fitness goals faster than traditional methods. It puts minimal strain on your joints while providing you with the challenge and progression that is essential for achieving results. With both low and high-intensity moves, it is a great alternative to regular cardio or weight-lifting as it works on building strength from within, without causing as much fatigue. 

We invite you to experience the benefits of reformer Pilates for yourself – try our Gold Coast reformer Pilates studio today with a 3-class pass for $60! Our knowledgeable instructors will help you navigate the reformer machines, so that you can safely and effectively reach your fitness goals. Don’t miss this chance to reap all the rewards from a single workout solution – make time for reformer Pilates today!