What is Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates class at our premium fitness studio in Bangkok.
If you’ve been paying attention to Hailey Bieber, Kendall Jenner, BLACKPINK’S Jennie, Son Ye-jin, or just about any other celebrity with a figure to strive for, you have definitely looked into experimenting with Reformer Pilates as a form of exercise. It is a low-impact workout that targets the full body and prioritizes a mind-body connection, focusing on controlled movements that encourage alignment, balance and strength. Some of the most prominent fitness trainers in the health and wellness sphere swear by its effectiveness. Let’s learn all about it.
What Is Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates is a form of exercise that is done using a reformer machine. The machine consists of a long frame with a padded platform atop it that rolls back and forth thanks to a pair of wheels and a set of springs attached within the frame. An average Pilates reformer machine is about 6' 8” long by 1'8” wide in size, and can weigh between 150 to 300 pounds.
While sharing many similarities to traditional Pilates, Reformer Pilates differs by generally being considered more intense and dynamic, with the resistance provided by the machine further challenging the individual to practice a large range of motion that builds and tones muscles while increasing their stability. This form of Pilates also works more areas than Mat Pilates would, as it mostly focuses on strengthening the core while Reformer Pilates works the entire body and highlights the muscles of the arms and legs.
Our Pilates instructor teaching a Reformer Pilates class at our high-end fitness studio in Bangkok.
How Was Reformer Pilates Created?
Like most inventions, the Reformer Pilates machine was birthed as a need for innovation. It began in the early 1900s when Joseph Pilates was working as a nurse at a World War I internment camp with many bed-bound patients that were struggling with being in stationary position for so long. To help them with movement, Joseph attached pulleys to the bed so that they can engage in resistance training without having to move from their position, hence the creation of the most rudimentary form of a reformer machine.
After the war came to its conclusion, Joseph went on to open his own fitness studio in the 1920s and designed a refined Reformer Pilates machine, with springs that added resistance for more effective strength training. With this machine, over 50 exercises were possible to work the muscles and improve overall balance and flexibility. As the world of Pilates advanced and transformed, the reformer machine has remained as an essential piece of equipment that provides individuals an effective way to stretch and build the muscles of their body.
Our Pilates instructor helping a Reformer Pilates class attendee with their form.
What Are the Benefits of Reformer Pilates?
In an increasingly digital world where human minds are tethered to desks, the demand for physical activity remains crucial. It has provided all the more reason for Reformer Pilates to grow in effectiveness and popularity as the years have gone on. Reformer Pilates stands out as a form of exercise that not only enhances muscle strength and overall mobility but also does so gently, taking into consideration the well-being of your joints. Beyond this, there are many other benefits to embracing Reformer Pilates as part of your fitness routine.
A Full Body Transformation
The greatest gift of Reformer Pilates is that it is a full-body workout. It strengthens a wide range of muscle groups, particularly your core, arms and legs, which in turn increases your overall power, strength, flexibility and efficiency. This holistic engagement of your body serves to realign and harmonize your muscles, preventing any one side from being favored and resulting in a sleek and uniformly toned physique. It is also a more effective workout as it saves your time at the gym, decreases your fatigue from being low impact, and ensures the right muscles are activating.
Clients enjoying our Reformer Pilates class in Bangkok.
Improve Your Posture
Practicing Reformer Pilates naturally improves your core stability. Strengthening your core not only contributes to an overall enhancement in your body but also creates a deep sense of bodily awareness and a heightened understanding of movement. With the central focus of this form of exercise being on the spine and posture, you will also naturally develop a greater balance and flexibility, ensuring your movements are most effective and efficient for your body. This, in turn, reduces the likelihood of aches and strains, effectively lowering the risk of back pain, even for those who lead predominantly sedentary office lives.
Indulge in Your First Reformer Pilates Class
With all of these benefits fresh in your mind, you must be wondering where you can participate in your first Reformer Pilates class in Bangkok. Look no further than our Absolute Pilates class with 7 studios for selection. It is a unique blend of traditional Pilates principles and modern fitness techniques taught by highly-trained professionals who will work with you to build strength and flexibility, resulting in a healthier and happier you. Check out our special offers and reserve your first session now.
