Pilates Machine Review – Allegro Pilates Performer

The Balanced Body Allegro Pilates Reformer allows you to take your Pilates practice to a whole new level. You can use it to work your upper body, abdominal and core regions, and even your legs. There is no muscle group that you can’t work on this machine, both in terms of strength training and the range of motion training.

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 Reformer Review: Stamina AeroPilates Pro XP 557

The Stamina Aero Pilates Pro XP 557 pilates machine is the perfect addition to any home gym, particularly because it offers users a way to combine traditional Pilates exercises with an additional aerobic component. Besides helping a person train and tone the various muscles of the body, the Stamina XP 557 Aero Pilates Pro Reformer is also an excellent way to burn calories and lose weight.

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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Pilates Power Gym Review

Sculpt your way to a better you with the Pilates Power Gym. This great home gym system combines the best of Pilates and traditional strength training in one terrific machine and is completely self-contained; no additional weights or spotters are necessary. The included workout DVD features over 60 exercises for total-body strengthening and conditioning and the Exercise and Nutrition Guide will help keep your diet and workout in line with your fitness goals.

Product:	Pilates Power Gym
Manufacturer:	Fitness Quest
Price:	$299.98 – $365.00

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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Pilates Exercise Machine – Will Using One Get You Great Results?

Pilates is one of a few exercise methods that has really taken off over recent months and years. There seems to be a greater emphasis on getting (and staying) fit than in previous times, and as a result, people are always looking for better ways to stay in shape so that they can live their lives the way they want to. The question is, is a pilates exercise machine the perfect home exercise solution for you? While only you can ultimately answer that question, we can explore the reasons that Pilates is so popular, and discuss the benefits of a machine that follows the principles of Pilates.

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.

Stamina AeroPilates Reformer Review

The uniqueness and versatility of the Stamina AeroPilates Reformer with Cardio Rebounder will become quite evident the first time you use it. The rebounding jump board helps to give you a great cardio workout as well as a killer abdominal workout at the same time. By rebounding with alternating feet or both feet together, the heart rate elevates quickly while providing a focused workout to your abs. All of this is on top of all the same traditional Pilates exercises and routines that you can do with this machine.

Product:	Stamina AeroPilates Reformer with Free-Form Cardio Rebounder
Manufacturer:	Stamina Products, Inc.
Price:	$599.99

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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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.

Shop for a Pilates Reformer at our ebay store »

Benefits of Pilates

Pilates is one of the most rewarding types of exercise because it improves the body’s core. Although it became popular as a way of rehabilitating athletes and dancers, pilates is now used by millions of people across the globe because it is one of the safest forms of exercise.

To get started with pilates, all you need is a pilates mat. But for more advanced pilates exercise enthusiasts, a pilates machine and other equipment can be added to perform simple routines. Whatever your level, you will begin to notice healthy improvements in your body.

Pilates can work for anyone – male or female, old or young. No matter what condition you’re in, the health and fitness benefits are endless. Pilates improves flexibility, core strength and range of motion. It is also known to help alleviate chronic health ailments as well as back pain.

The best part about Pilates is that it’s fun! It’s an exercise that bonds the mind and body allowing them to work together to establish balance. Pilates also improves overall body alignment, making it less prone to injury.

Some additional benefits of Pilates are that it:

• Improves breathing.

• Corrects spinal and pelvic alignment through the concentration of slow, flowing, smooth movements with maximum power.

• Builds long, lean muscles that are less prone to injury, while building strength – without the bulk.

• Improves flexibility and range of motion.

• Improves back and abdominal strength.

• Creates balance between muscles – as weak muscles become stronger and the strong muscles also gain more strength never over training or under training any particular muscle group. This balance makes it easier to enjoy daily activities with less risk of injury. Pilates allows you to retrain your body to move in smoother safer, more efficient patterns of motion, which is essential in optimal performance and overall health.

• There is no pounding or bouncing in Pilates. It is the safest form of exercise. This is why it began as a rehabilitation exercise system for sports athletes and dancers. It is an intense exercise system working all muscle groups but still sustaining and improving overall balance.

If you are looking for a fitness routine that’s safe and easy to do, Pilates is an excellent choice. But best of all, with the popularity of this system, it can be performed in the comfort of your own home! Many pilates DVD’s are available for beginner and advanced users alike. So, if you need the right exercise system, pilates may be just the right thing for you. Fun, easy and relaxing exercise that strengthens and restores flexibility… Doesn’t get much better than this!

History of Pilates

The Pilates Machine was the brainchild of Joseph Hubertus Pilates, a German who was born in 1880. As a child, Joseph Pilates suffered from asthma, rickets, and rheumatic fever. Determined to overcome his ailments, he began to study anatomy as well as Eastern and Western forms of exercise, including Yoga, weight training, wrestling, and acrobatics. He was particularly enamored of the ancient Classic Greek “ideal man” who was equally schooled in cognitive thinking, philosophy, and history, but also maintained a finely tuned, athletic body.

When World War I broke out, Joseph Pilates found himself interned in England as an enemy alien on the Isle of Man. The health conditions in the internment camps were not great, but Pilates insisted that everyone in his cell block participate in daily exercise routines to help maintain both their physical and mental well-being. However, some of the injured German soldiers were too weak to get out of bed.

Not content to leave his comrades lying idle, Pilates took springs from the beds and attached them to the headboards and footboards of the iron bed frames, turning them into equipment that provided a type of resistance exercise for his bedridden “patients.” This equipment was used to correct muscular imbalances and improve posture, coordination, balance, strength, and flexibility, as well as to increase breathing capacity and organ function.

In 1926, Joseph Pilates moved to New York and brought along this method of exercise, which he termed ‘Contrology’. He defined Contrology as “the comprehensive integration of body, mind and spirit.”

The earliest American students of Contrology were professional dancers, because they repeatedly injured themselves. Soon the choreographer George Balanchine and other movement visionaries became believers in Contrology. From there the exercise, but not the name, caught on–everyone seemed to prefer to call it ‘Pilates.’

Today, many famous athletes, dancers, models and actors, as well as business professionals, housewives, and retires have taken up Pilates as their regular exercise routine.

An excellent book on presentation of the original Pilates matwork has been written by Brooke Siler. In The Pilates Body, she provides simple and easy to follow explanations for both novice and advanced Pilates students. She also provides photos, detailed text and analogies that make it ideal for home use.