Click Here for the Malibu Pilates Chair.

Compared to the Pilates Reformer, which really is the top of the pile of quality exercise equipment, the Malibu Pilates Chair is much smaller and easier to manage. You’ll find it so lightweight that moving it out of the way is a snap. Like the Pilates Reformer, it has no problem giving you a full body work out. But what it won’t do is cost you an arm and a leg. At just under $350, it is very cost effective. The Reformer is more in the two to three thousand dollar range.

If you are looking for an entry point into the Pilates machine world, the Malibu Pilates Chair is a great one. As a novice, start out a little slower. Don’t worry you’ll soon be sweating with the best of them. And like I mentioned, it won’t take up too much room.

The Malibu chair makes your workout so much easier. Not that it does the work for you, but it will make your workout more effective. The way it is designed, as you progress in its program you will begin to watch the all those pounds melt away like magic.

I still remember my fat guy days. These Pilates machines were not so readily available to the common person. I had to spend hour upon grueling hour in the health club with all the gym rats and muscle heads. If I had one of these babies I could have been able to lose 20 pounds in 30 days…no problem.

I don’t want to sound all Pollyanna so let me list the things I didn’t like. I prefer a longer workout (don’t worry it comes with one) to the 20 minute one included on the free DVD with the Malibu Pilates Chair. That’s why I prefer the Body Sculpting Work Out that lasts a whole hour. It also comes with a free wall chart and custom plan for a diet. The one I tried at my local Pilates studio offered a better range of motion but the price of this one is lower.

Product: Allegro Pilates Performer
Manufacturer: Balanced Body, Inc.
Price: $2695.00

Product Description

The Pilates Allegro Reformer is the most versatile reformer on the market. It offers all of the features of a Studio Reformer plus it folds down flat and stacks for convenient storage.

The Allegro uses an 8-wheel suspension system for a smooth, quiet ride. An extra-wide, padded footbar adjusts to four vertical positions and four horizontal positions to accommodate people of all heights. Other features include: 3-position headrest that provides comfort and support for the neck, swivel pulleys for variable angles of resistance, a built-in standing platform with non-skid finish, padded shoulder rests that adjust to two widths, and ropes that adjust quickly and easily with nautical cam cleats.

The Pilates Allegro is ideal for home, studio or club use. The machine includes a free copy of the acclaimed Allegro Level 1 workout video. In the 30-minute Introductory Workout, you’ll learn basic movement principles of Reformer exercises. Then, you’ll progress to Level 1, where you’ll integrate core control, correct breathing, and proper alignment with smooth, continuous movements for all the major muscle groups.

Consumer Reviews

From Amazon.com

“This has easily become one of “our” best ever purchases. My husband bought this as a a birthday gift for me and now we have to fight some nights for who will use it first. I have taken private ($75 an hour session) and group reformer classes ($30 an hour session x5 in a class) locally, but needed to use more than once a week which is hard to do with the pricey costs. We bought the risers too, since I like being a little off the ground when exercising…” – K.Romero

“Have used the Stott Reformer and another wood-based reformer. Love the Allegro reformer best. Its easily movable, easy to setup and feels more solidly build.” – Jeffrey Kok

Average Consumer Rating:  5/5

Where to Buy: Allegro Pilates Performer at Amazon.com

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Pilates Cadillac

The Pilates Cadillac consists of a padded platform that has a frame above it. Springs connect the frame to various bars or straps.

To use a Cadillac, sit on the platform and make sure your body is at the front of the roll-down bar. Also, your spine should be in a neutral position. Put your feet about 12 to 18 inches apart.

Lightly hold the roll-down bar. Then roll toward the bench. As you do this, pull your abdominal muscles tightly and slowly. Inhale once after your body has been aligned completely with the bench.

Afterwards, exhale while pulling your body up to the direction of the roll-down bar. See to it that you tightly pull in your abdominal muscles.

Reformer Machine

The Pilates reformer consists of a gliding platform attached by springs to a wooden or metal frame. The gliding platform can be pulled on ropes or pushed off from a non-moving bar. This machine uses the principle of resistance to make your abdominal muscles stronger.

How is it used for Pilates exercises? First, lie flat on the gliding platform and put your feet on the foot bar. Since the platform is near the foot bar, bend your knees at an angle of 90 degrees.

Next, stretch your legs to push the gliding platform away from the foot bar. As you do this, you must exhale and inhale gently. Also, bend your knees slowly and carefully.

Pilates Wunda Chair

This equipment is made up of a small padded platform with springs attached to a bar. Exercises using a wunda chair involve moving the bar forward as you stand or sit on the bench.

To use the wunda chair, begin with the basic moves as you sit on the bench. Then slowly increase your movements before you do harder exercises.

You can also use this Pilates machine by standing up on the bench. Put your right foot gently at the chair’s base. Bend your left knee and push the pedal down with your left foot. Once the pedal is lowered, raise it once more with your left leg.

Since you already know how to exercise with the above-mentioned Pilates machines, you can now begin to use them so that you can work out your muscles and improve your overall well being.

Product: Stamina AeroPilates Pro XP 557
Manufacturer: Stamina Products, Inc.
Price: $1099.00 – $1299.00

Product Description

The Stamina Aero Pilates Pro XP 557 Pilates Reformer is an in-home, commercial grade pilates machine. It consists of a spring system with different resistance levels set up on a platform that you can lay on, sit on or do various other exercises from. Simply push off from the free form cardio rebounder while lying on your back for additional cardiovascular exercise benefits.

The Stamina Aero Pilates Pro XP 557 Pilates Reformer was constructed to be four inches longer than traditional reformers. The benefit of this length increase is that it will accommodate most heights in reference to Pilates exercise needs.

The Cardio Rebounder fits in holes at the base of the machine and functions like a trampoline. The Rebounder allows you to “jump” while lying down on the reformer, so that users of any fitness level can use the Rebounder safely and effectively. The cardio workout is gentle to your joints and connective tissue, and yet allows you to reach and maintain your target heart rate as effectively as with a treadmill. You can turn your feet in or out to hit different muscle groups and reach hard to access thigh, hip, and waist muscles. The Rebounder can be taken on and off the reformer easily.

Additional AeroPilates Pro XP 557 features include:

• Longer rails than traditional reformers
• Made of commercial steel
• Steel springs provide resistance for exercises
• The ropes, straps and handgrips are adjustable
• Universal size to fit most users
• Performs over 100 exercises to tone and shape the entire body
• Quiet, ultra-smooth rollers and gliders for a safe, effective workout

Consumer Reviews

From Amazon.com

“This machine is great for all the pilates work, just like what I have used at the pilates studio and I love the trampoline rebounder. It’s like running in the sand and getting an ab workout at the same time. Very easy on my knees. I love it. My belly’s flattening out and I am getting the same amount of cardio that I was getting on the treadmill, but without the pounding and jarring.”

From Become.com

“I LOVE this pilates machine! It was relatively easy to put together – it took me about an hour. the instructions were clear and easy to follow. I like the video and the exercise map. I feel very comfortable on the machine….I would say I am as comfortable on this as I was on the one at the gym! It is great!”

From Buzzillions.com

“This is a great reformer for the money…I can do all the exercises I did at the gym. It is sturdy, glides smoothly and you feel that it is really solid beneath you. The rebounder attachment gives a good cardio element to the workout. I am really glad I bought it.”

AeroPilates Pro XP 557 Pros

• Comfortable
• Durable
• Non-slip
• Easy to use

AeroPilates Pro XP 557 Cons

• Side rail seam
• Very heavy to move

Average Consumer Rating: 4.5/5

The Bottom Line

The Stamina AeroPilates Pro XP557 is for the person who takes their home Pilates reformer workout seriously and who wants to take the traditional Pilates workout to the next level with the addition of cardio. You’ll lose weight and tone the hips, thighs, and abdominals! Using the AeroPilates Pro is the safest, most effective way to perform Pilates exercises without a licensed instructor, and with the included videos, anyone can learn to use the machine.

Where to Buy: AeroPilates Pro XP557 at Amazon

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Product Description

Bring your Pilates routine out of the expensive studio and into your living room with the Pilates Power Gym reformer. Outfitted with a sturdy carbon-steel frame that can hold up to 300 pounds, the Power Gym will help firm, tone, sculpt, and define your calves, thighs, hips, abs, shoulders, arms, and back. In short, there’s no better way to create fabulous Pilates arms, long and lean Pilates legs, and a perfect Pilates behind.

Specifically designed to eliminate the Pilates learning curve, the Power Gym offers such features as multiple incline levels, four variable resistance cords, and quick-change height adjustments, helping you build strength and tone your muscles regardless of your current fitness level. Whether you’re an absolute beginner or a Pilates pro, the Power Gym is a terrific choice. Other features unique to the Power Gym include padded handles for comfort and adjustable foot straps.

The Power Gym also comes with a workout DVD with two separate workouts: one that tells you how to create a long, lean, sexy body and a second focused on building strong, defined muscles. And thanks to the bundled Healthy Eating Guide, you’ll have access to a bunch of easy-to-follow meal plans to help accelerate your results. Perhaps best of all for users with small apartments or homes, the Power Gym rolls away for easy storage in a closet or corner. The Power Gym measures 56 by 17.75 by 13 inches (W x H x D), weighs 61 pounds, and carries a 90-day warranty.

Consumer Reviews

From Amazon.com

I hate exercising but know I need to and this is the first piece of equipment that I’ve ever enjoyed using. I love this machine. It is super easy to adjust and appropriate for all levels. I am 6 feet tall and have no problem fitting on the glideboard. I can do all of the exercises in the book and workout for about 45 min or so and not hate it. You can tell your muscles are changing, but it’s not so horrible or painful that you avoid it. I cannot say enough good things about this machine. I have bought everything and never used anything for longer than a day or two. I believe this is the only toning machine that anyone should ever need and it is a great price!! I love it!!
-  Tracy E. Guerrero

“The Pilates Power Gym was a wonderful find. Because of permanent injuries following an accident a few years ago I can’t do a lot of walking nor can I easily get up and down to do Pilates on the floor. This product is just high enough off the floor that I can easily get on and off it and change positions. It is well-made and being fully assembled is one of the selling points for me. I recommend this Reformer. It is a little heavy for me to move around right now, but I think the strength training exercises you can do with it will resolve that problem soon.”
- Kayell “Avid Reader”

From Buzzillions.com

“The Pilates Power Gym certainly is a compact weight training/Pilates tool. However, for many people it is to narrow and/or short. It is much better for upper body pulling motions than pushing motions. As a certified personal trainer and Pilates Instructor, I have found it is ok for anyone who is under 5′10″ and at a healthy weight to slightly overweight. It is limited on some of the Pilates exercises as it is not as long as a reformer and it also has a different style of cords for the resistance. Overall, it is ok for the money, but do not expect it to be a true reformer.”
- Jessica the Trainer

“I use it for pilates and it works great. The different resistance levels allow me to comfortably perform each position. I have a small frame and the bed of the gym is a little narrow so I have to be careful when positioning myself.”
- CLA the beginner

From HSN.com

My favorite workout! / Laura, CO
“This is a great machine! It’’s very smooth, super easy to use and you can work out your entire body. The great thing about this is that it only takes about 20 minutes a day and does not stress your body. I have five kids and no time to go and work out, this was my answer. I lost inches within 4 weeks! The machine stores away easily and in a small space. I highly recommend the Pilates Power Gym to men and women!”

Big Workout in a Small Package! / Lynn, SC
“This machine is excellent for targeting all of the muscles in your body. You really feel it when you”re done. The video is an excellent instructional for those who are new to pilates and want to make the most of working out on this machine. Definitely money well-spent!”

Pilates Power Gym Pros

• Easy to use
• Easy setup
• Sturdy

Pilates Power Gym Cons

• Noisy
• Too Narrow

Average Consumer Rating: 4.5/5

The Bottom Line

For anyone wanting to accomplish a lot in a small space, the Pilates Power Gym is a good investment. The DVD workout video provides good instructions for doing the exercises. However, the small size may make it tough for taller or larger-build users.

Where to Buy

• Pilates Power Gym on Shop.com
• Pilates Power Gym on Amazon

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One reason that Pilates is becoming more and more popular is that it is something new. People tend to get bored of the same old exercise routines, and why wouldn’t they? After all, you can only hop on the treadmill or head to the same aerobics class so many times before it starts to get a little stale. Pilates is a way to get fit without relying on the same boring type of workout that you have been doing.

Also, Pilates is a no-impact exercise method, which means that if your joints are sore or worn down by years of running, aerobics, or other activities, you can get some relief by doing Pilates. Best of all, even though there is no impact on your knees, feet, and other body parts, you will still get a wonderful workout that will get you into great shape.

What exactly can a machine do to help someone who is using Pilates to get in shape? You may be surprised at how natural and helpful a machine can be, actually. Many people are shocked at the idea of a machine that can be used for Pilates exercises, especially because Pilates seems to embody concepts that machines do not help you with usually, such as flexibility and fluid movements.

What a great machine will do for your workouts is intensify them by adding a bit of resistance to your movements. This will be helpful both for veterans of Pilates workouts who need a bit more challenge to their workouts, and also for those who are relatively new to Pilates, but are very fit and want to maintain that level of fitness. With a machine, the performance of exercises (and the challenge involved) can be tweaked to suit the performer his or herself.

If you think a Pilates exercise machine sounds right for you, check out some information on the internet to select the best one. Use reviews and consumer ratings as a guide, and do not forget to consider the value you are looking for, as well.

Read about working out using a Pilates Reformer Machine and more about Pilates instruction and exercise at => http://www.instructionstopilates.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dean_Forster.

Product Description

The Stamina AeroPilates Reformer gives you a solid Pilates machine with the added element of a rebounding platform for horizontal aerobic rebounding action. The AeroPilates machine combines aerobics with classic Pilates strength and flexibility exercises. For those who are dying to combine an aerobic workout with their Pilates routine, the AeroPilates is a great tool for accomplishing just that. The rebounding footboard on the AeroPilates allows you to safely and comfortably expand your Pilates workout.

The exercises provide a simple and non-impact, fat burning cardiovascular workout. Simply lying on your back and rebounding off the Cardio Jump Board puts you on your way to achieving your weight loss goals. The AeroPilates machine is also elevated for easy mounting and dismounting. The ultra-smooth rollers bear the weight of the sliding carriage as you move back and forth for a low-impact workout.

Consumer Reviews

From Buzzillions.com:

“I’ve owned this machine for 6 years now, and it works as beautifully today as it did the first time. In fact, I own both this pilates machine and a $200 pilates machine purchased so family members can work-out together (such as my Grandson & myself . If you are looking for long-lasting, wonderful quality, treat yourself to this pilates machine! It is simply the best. I have used it on beautiful wood floors, on ceramic, even outdoors in my lanai in the spring; NEVER has a floor been damaged by the thick leg coverings. No mat necessary! … It’s easy to assemble, portable yet very well built, and ALWAYS my personal pick between my two machines! The stand is strong, the cardio bounce a plus, & it’s so easy to just “relax” & tone! I look great, feel great, and love how this purchase has improved my life for 6 years now! Awesome!!! If you’ve got the money to buy the best, you’ve found it!”
-  Gorgeous Grandmother, Orlando, FL

“This is a great machine to work out. Builds the body frame for both men and women. The rebounder is wonderful for cardio.”
- Workout Steve, Las Vegas, NV

From Amazon.com

“This reformer is a great value for the money. I regularly do pilates at my gym with a personal trainer, so I am used to being on some of the most expensive machines. When I decided to get a reformer for my home, I was very concerned about how well one of the less expensive machines would functions, particularly because I’m not a small woman. I have fallen in love with this machine. It was easy to put together. I did it by myself in 15-20 minutes. Since receiving the machine, I’ve used it almost ever day and have no complaints. I feel comfortable that it will hold up to my continued use.”
-KellyMac (Boston)

“This is a good sturdy quality piece of equipment. I was afraid it might not be stable and function like some of the larger or more expensive reformers. This definitely holds it’s own and I’m glad I got this one because I can keep it by the wall and then easily slide it over for the workout. All of the parts work smoothly. As far as the trampoline in the lying down position, I need to start slowly or I get a little nauseous. Most importantly, I have a herniated disc in my center back and the Pilates exercises are helping me enormously. I highly recommend it.”
-Kelly J. Steinmetz (Florida)

Stamina AeroPilates Pros

• Comfortable
• Non-slip
• Durable
• High quality
• Long-lasting
• Portable

Stamina AeroPilates Cons

• Price

The Bottom Line

Pilates exercises can dramatically reshape hips, thighs and butt, increase abdominal strength and muscle elongation and improve spinal alignment. If you want to give Pilates a try or are looking for a machine that will allow you to take your Pilates routine to that next level, the Stamina AeroPilates Reformer with Cardio Rebounder is a great choice.

Average Consumer Rating: 4.5/5

Where to Buy: Stamina AeroPilates on eBay, Stamina AeroPilates on Amazon

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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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