Pilates Equipment

The Reformer:

Pilates is most often performed on a mat or a Reformer. The Reformer is a resistance-based piece of equipment with a moving carriage that slides along a wooden or metal frame. Springs and ropes provide assistance and resistance, and exercises are performed lying down, sitting, kneeling or standing.

The Reformer is the backbone of the Pilates method; it is the most widely utilized apparatus. The Reformer provides challenging and inspiring exercises with many variations against resistance and assistance. Virtually injury free exercise that improves flexibility, core strengthening, balance and breathing.

The Combo Chair:

The combo chair formerly known as the "electric chair" will kick your powerhouse into high gear! Perfect your Pilates principles with the vast amount of challenging movements.

While many of these Pilates exercises are performed seated on top and pressing down on the step/pedal with your feet, others entail lying on the floor, standing straight up, lunging forward or doing push-up like movements. This is an all-around apparatus to test your core stability to give you coordination, stamina and strength.

The Spine Corrector:

The Step Barrel or Spine Corrector is the perfect tool to open hips, chest, shoulders; increasingflexibility and strength to the spine as well as the abdominal area. Increase resistance by using the different slopes uphill and downhill.

The Mat:

Pilates exercises can be performed on a mat, with literally hundreds of beginner to advanced moves available in the repertoire for a well-rounded workout on the floor.

Your Choice:

Many Pilates enthusiasts prefer working on Reformers, which offer more resistance and support than a mat. Others love the flexibility of mat workouts, which allow you more flexibility in where and when you work out.

These are just some of the basic pieces of equipment that you might see in a Pilates studio.  There are more Pilates equipments and props that can add a whole new level of interest and intensity to the Pilates experience. 

Again, a purely mat-based routine is an authentic and effective Pilates workout by itself, but if you have the opportunity to explore some Pilates equipment under the guidance of a trained professional, do so!