What is Reformation Pilates? And is it worth the price?

The pilates reformer is constantly growing popularityand new studios open regularly in major cities around the world.

But what exactly is reform Pilates? How does this compare to regular Pilates and other types of exercise?

Classes don’t come cheap, so let’s look at the potential pros and cons to help you decide if they’re right for you.

Pilates with special equipment

Pilates is exercise mode which focuses on core stability and flexibility while also addressing muscular strength and endurance, balance and overall fitness. At first glance, it may look a bit like yoga, with some more traditional strength training elements added.

Pilates Reformer uses an instrument called a “reformer”. It looks like a narrow bed that slides on the trolley, has straps for holding and adjustable springs that increase resistance to movement. You perform Pilates on a reformer, targeting specific muscle groups and movement patterns.

The reformer was initially supposed to help people recover from injuries. However, now it has become common for general fitness and even sports results.

Unlike regular pilates, also known as “mat pilates”, which uses only your body weight, the reformer adds resistance, which means you can vary the difficulty depending on your current fitness level.

Not only does this provide a way to overload your muscles, but it can make your exercise session more aerobically demanding, as has been proposed improve the efficiency of the circulatory system.

What are the benefits of reformer pilates?

Despite being around for several decades, there is surprisingly little research examining the benefits of Reform Pilates. However, what we have seen so far suggests that it has a similar effect to other types of exercise.

Reformer Pilates has been shown to be helpful weight lossbecause some people slight increases in muscle massand improve cognitive function. All of these benefits are widely seen when we combine strength training and cardio into the same program.

Likewise among older adultsit has been shown to improve strength, increase flexibility, and may even reduce the risk of falls.

From a rehabilitation standpoint, there is some evidence to suggest that Reformed Pilates can improve shoulder health and functionalityreduce lower back pain AND increase flexibility.

Finally, there is evidence to suggest that a single session of Reform Pilates can improve two key metrics circulatory system healthbeing flow dependent dilation and pulse wave velocity as well improving cholesterol and insulin levels. This suggests that reform pilates may lead to long-term improvements in heart health and metabolism, although further research is needed to confirm this.

However, when discussing these benefits, there are a few key points to consider. Most of this research is exploratory and comes from a very small number of studies. So we don’t know whether these findings will apply to everyone.

Very few studies have compared reform Pilates with other types of exercise. Therefore, although it can improve most aspects of health and functioning, it is unlikely that Pilates provides a method of exercise for every single element of physical fitness.

For example, traditional strength training will likely result in greater improvements in strength than reform Pilates. Stretching will be similar will probably make you more flexible. Running or cycling will make you fitter.

However, if you want the type of exercise that provides broad overall health benefits, this may be a good option.

What are the disadvantages of reformer pilates?

Pilates Reformer is not for everyone.

First of all, classes can be expensive compared to other fitness options. You need to do at least two to three sessions of any type of exercise per week maximize benefits. So even if you find a class for A$20 or A$30, paying for two or three classes a week (or signing up for a weekly or monthly subscription) is a significant expense.

Secondly, it is not as accessible as other exercises. Even if you can afford it, not every city or suburb has a reform studio.

Third, the effectiveness of your training will likely be influenced by the competence level of your instructor. There are many different Pilates qualifications you can gain in Australia, and some take much less time than others. With this in mind, your best bet would be to do some research accredited pilates instructorsalthough this will further limit the number of options available.

Finally, there is a learning curve. Although you will get better over time, the exercise will likely be less effective in the first few weeks (or months) as you get used to the machine and the movements.

Is this right for you?

The Pilates Reformer can be a great addition to your exercise program, especially if you’re looking for a low-impact way to build strength and flexibility.

However, if you have more specific goals, you may need a more specific exercise regimen. For example, if you want to get stronger to improve your ability to cope with everyday life, strength training is probably your best choice. Similarly, if your goal is to run a marathon, you will reap more specific benefits from running.

The cost and availability of Reform Pilates make it less accessible to some people. With this in mind, if you are looking for similar benefits at a lower price, mat pilates may be a better option. Not only does he have evidence to suggest he can improve strength and conditioningbut it’s something you can do at home if you find a good source (YouTube might be a good starting point here).