Here at our Pilates Studio in Port Moody and Coquitlam, we help a broad range of patients regain confidence, range of movement, and fitness using a wide array of methods. Reformer pilates is just one of those options, and in this article, we’re going to look at how it works, who can benefit, and what effects you can expect to see.
What is Pilates Reformer?
Pilates Reformer classes utilizes a pilates reformer machine to provide resistance during exercises. It differs from mat-based pilates because the reformer opens up a more comprehensive range of activities, which can be tailored to the needs and capabilities of users by adjusting spring tensions. Massage therapists can design workouts for many different types of patients with an increased variety made available when compared to mat-based sessions. Whereas mat pilates tends to focus on strengthening core muscles, Pilates Reformer classes is an excellent option for users who wish to strengthen joints and muscles in the legs and arms.
Pilates Reformer Classes in Port Moody & Coquitlam
You’ve likely already heard about pilates. It’s been popular for decades with people from all walks of life who want to see relatively fast, sustainable results and enjoy a low-impact workout. Many people get their first taste of pilates on a mat, working on their core muscles to promote balance, develop strength, and achieve a toned torso. Pilates is also an excellent way to protect against the effects of many chronic lower back issues.
While for some patients, we recommend a few sessions on the mat first, some patients can benefit from an immediate introduction to reformer pilates. Depending on the nature of your injury or goals, reformer pilates can be a part of a broader active rehabilitation plan. That’s because the reformer allows massage therapists to focus on specific muscles groups or areas of the body. Whereas mat-based pilates relies on your body weight for resistance, the reformer can be set up to provide precise amounts of resistance exactly where it’s needed to either further your recovery or reach your personal fitness targets.
What is Pilates Reformer and how does it work?
Joseph Pilates is the man behind the pilates phenomenon, and he was inspired to invent the Pilates Reformer by a hospital bed. The device consists of a carriage that is connected to the main body of the machine by springs, the resistance of which can be adjusted. The carriage is moved by the user according to the set resistance, which is calculated based on their injury or ability. The user then moves the carriage back and forth along the device. At one end, shoulder blocks hold you in place, and at the other, there is an adjustable bar you’ll use to hold or push with your hands or feet, depending on the exercise being performed. All the springs on the device can be adjusted to suit the capability of the user, making the reformer a valuable tool for RMT clinics and active rehab.
Who can benefit from using a Pilates Reformer?
Using a Pilates Reformer can be an excellent option for anyone who wants to boost their core strength and improve their posture – which can both help prevent the ongoing effects of chronic neck pain and back issues. A Pilates Reformer can also work wonders for someone seeking just to improve their overall fitness levels.
In terms of active rehab after an injury or illness, Pilates Reformer classes can be a training and recovery aid for athletes, help elderly patients improve their balance and reduce the risk of falls, and help people from all age groups recover movement, mobility, and promote healing:
It helps to strengthen bones
Improves stability of key muscle groups and joints after an injury
Promotes better balance
Forms part of a broader weight loss plan
Maintains fitness and wellbeing during pregnancy
Book A Port Moody & Coquitlam Pilates Class
Whether you just want to achieve a leaner, toned look, improve your range of movement or strength, or you’re recovering from an injury, come down to our Pilates Studio here in Port Moody and Coquitlam. Our expert instructors can help you design a plan that helps you recover quicker, get fitter faster, and stay active longer. You can book an appointment online, and our friendly staff is always available to answer any questions you may have.