The Pilates Reformer machine is one of the most popular and most widely used pieces of equipment used in Pilates. When Joseph Pilates first developed his unique workouts the main focus was on keeping it free from weight and other “machines” that he believed did more harm than good. As a purely mat based workout program Pilates has its limitations. While it still provides you with a whole-body workout it lacked that extra resistance to “beef up” your workouts.

This was when the reformer was introduced. While some may think that its nothing more than another fitness machine, this is truly different. The Pilates reformer machine is a piece of equipment that is specifically designed to use your own body weight to provide the resistance. Rumor has it that the first version of a the Reformer was made from an old bed frame. No wonder, it still looks remarkably like a bed but it works very differently.

Its essentially a frame with a sliding platform that allows you to site or lie down on. At the one end of the platform is a static foot bar and at the other end is a pair of elastic ropes with pulleys. At the one end the platform is attached with springs which provide the resistance while you are sliding along the platform during the workout.

Virtually every part of the reformer can be adjusted to suit virtually any person. It also allows you to use a wide variety of postures to add great flexibility to your workouts. While anyone can use it, its more focused on the advanced user and you should never attempt to use it without a good instructor or without Pilates experience.

Using Pilates reformer machine has some distinct benefits. The first and most obvious benefit is a much more demanding workout and if you are looking to get more out of your Pilates workouts then a reformer can certainly provide that for you. It will help you to  build muscle and add a greater work rate to your exercises which will improve your cardiovascular health and boost your metabolism – which makes it great for weight loss.

Many athletes use reformer machines to build core strength and to improve breathing which is certain valid for anyone who wants to improve their overall health and well being. In the nature of Pilates, the reformer is kind on your body and places the focus on optimizing muscle involvement.

Buying a Pilates reformer can range from $500 to $5000 and unless you have the space its not really ideal for home use. In my opinion its best in a studio setup with an instructor although many persoanl trainers can take you on in a one-on-one setup.
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