Anatomy Of A Pilates Machine: The Reformer

Mechanized beds were the forerunners of the spring-based exercise machines, such as the Cadillac and the Reformer, for which the Pilates method is known today.  Perhaps the most renowned of all Pilates equipment is the Pilates Reformer.  With its sophisticated system of springs, straps and pulleys, more than 100 exercises can be performed on this surprisingly versatile apparatus.

The Reformer comes with foot-bars, the height of which may be adjusted with the gear system. There will be two to four notches on the inside of the frame that will allow you to adjust the height of the foot-bars.

The springs provide resistance from the machine. The rest of the resistance is provided by your own body weight. The springs hook on the spring bar, and different springs can be unhooked to increase or decrease the resistance.

The crux of the Reformer is in the gliding platform on which one can sit, kneel, stand or lie on their front, back or side. Known as the carriage, the user pushes and pulls off the footbar using the arms, legs, wrists and ankles to slide back and forth along the rails in a controlled manner while the tension in the springs gently work the muscles.

Many Pilates Reformer exercises are done lying down with the head on the headrest. The important thing to be aware of is that the headrest can be down flat or propped up.  However, it is important to have the headrest down anytime you are going to bring your legs over your head. There are also exercises where you turn around and put your feet through the headrest area.

The shoulder blocks keep you stable on the Reformer as you push or pull the carriage. Often your shoulders are against the blocks, but there are also exercises that use the shoulder blocks as props for the feet, knees or hands.

The straps are connected to pulleys at the top end of the Reformer. The straps have handles on the end that you can grasp to pull or push the carriage. The basic principle is that you will be pushing or pulling yourself on the carriage against the resistance provided by your own body weight and the springs.

The Pilates Reformer helps one establish torso stability and postural alignment while working peripheral limbs in a range of motion. The adjustable springs allow for progressive resistance, which helps to lengthen and strengthen the muscles rather than building bulk. It makes for an effective, no-impact stretching and toning workout that is friendly to the joints.

There are many styles of reformers. Some reformers are wood and some are metal. There might be leather straps or ropes, and the reformer may be on legs or not. Nevertheless, the basic parts and their functions will be the same.  Despite the variations, the majority of Reformers stay close to the vision that Joseph Pilates engineered.  Prices fall in the $2000-$4000 range for various models of quality Reformers, so be discerning when you see some advertised for $150. For occasional home use these cheaper machines in the $150 range might be sufficient, but don’t expect them to measure up in terms of quality and precision.

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