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pilates matters buying guide

From muscle rollers to complete pilates systems, discover the right equipment to get you moving today!

Best Pilates Reformer Machines

Reformers FAQ's

What is a pilates reformer?

The Pilates reformer is like a magic workout bed — it's got a sliding platform, springs, and some handy add-ons. Imagine getting a deeper stretch, better muscle tone, and more strength, all with its help. It's versatile too, fitting for both newcomers and seasoned Pilates pros. Thinking of leveling up your workout or bouncing back from an injury? The reformer might just be your new best friend in the gym.

What is a megaformer and how does it work?

If you're looking to take your fitness routine to the next level, you may have heard about the Megaformer. But what exactly is it and how does it work? 

The Megaformer is a fitness machine designed by Sebastien Lagree to work in conjunction with his workout method; Lagree Fitness.

It combines elements of pilates, strength training, and cardio into one intense workout. It consists of a moving carriage, adjustable springs, and various handles and straps for different exercises.

The Megaformer is designed to target multiple muscle groups simultaneously, providing a full-body workout that challenges both strength and endurance.

With its unique design and versatility, the Megaformer offers a dynamic and effective way to improve your fitness level and achieve your goals. The Megaformer works by utilizing a combination of resistance, stability, and controlled movements to engage and challenge your muscles. The moving carriage and adjustable springs create resistance, which can be adjusted to accommodate different fitness levels and target specific muscle groups. The various handles and straps allow for a wide range of exercises, including lunges, planks, and squats, that work multiple muscle groups simultaneously. The Megaformer's design promotes slow, controlled movements, emphasizing proper form and alignment to maximize effectiveness and minimize the risk of injury.

By incorporating elements of pilates, strength training, and cardio, the Megaformer provides a comprehensive and efficient workout that can help you build strength, improve flexibility, and increase cardiovascular endurance. 

To summarise, below are some great benefits of the megaformer:

- The resistance and controlled movements help to build strength and tone muscles.

- The adjustable springs allow for customization, so you can target specific muscle groups and gradually increase the intensity as you progress.

- The Megaformer is designed with slow, controlled movements in mind. These intentional movements encourage proper form and alignment, which in turn minimize the risk of injury.

- The Megaformer offers a comprehensive workout. This not only enhances flexibility but also boosts cardiovascular endurance and overall fitness.

- The versatility of the Megaformer ensures a broad spectrum of exercises, enabling continuous progression and preventing fitness plateaus.

Whether you're just starting out or you're an advanced fitness enthusiast, the Megaformer can be an effective tool to elevate and diversify your workout routine, helping you achieve your fitness objectives.

What is a pilates cadillac reformer?

A pilates cadillac reformer is a unique piece of equipment that combines the features of a traditional trapeze table cadillac and a sliding carriage reformer. It is often considered the ultimate pilates apparatus.

It consists of a sturdy frame with various attachments, such as springs, bars, and straps, that allow for a wide range of exercises and movements. The cadillac reformer is designed to target different muscle groups and improve overall strength, flexibility, and body alignment. It is a popular choice among pilates enthusiasts and professionals for its versatility and ability to enhance the pilates practice. The bars and straps allow for a variety of three-dimensional exercises.

What is a trapeze table cadillac?

The trapeze table cadillac, is a piece of pilates equipment that was invented by Joseph Pilates himself.

Originally, it was designed to aid in the rehabilitation of injured soldiers during World War I. The trapeze table cadillac has since evolved and become a staple in many pilates studios around the world. Unlike the reformer, the trapeze table does not have a gliding carriage. The trapeze table cadillac features a horizontal table, which is attached to vertical poles. The poles are adjustable in height, and there are various attachments that can be added to the poles, including springs, bars, and straps. These attachments allow for a wide range of exercises to be performed on the trapeze table cadillac, making it an incredibly versatile piece of equipment.

Typically these are purchased in addition to a sliding carriage reformer.

What is a reformer with tower?

The reformer with tower is a pilates machine that combines two popular pieces of pilates equipment: the reformer and the tower. The reformer is a long, narrow platform that slides back and forth on rails, while the tower is a vertical frame with springs and bars that can be used for a variety of exercises. When combined, thereformer with tower offers a very wide range of exercises that can help you build strength, flexibility, and endurance. It's a versatile machine that can be used by beginners and advanced practitioners alike. They allow you to do all the exercises a reformer does as well as 75% of all the other exercises that the traditional cadillac offers. However the towers do not have the overhead bars that run parallel to the mat, the attached trapeze bar that attaches to those bars, and the hanging straps that attach to the bars (all of which are features of the traditional cadillac). 

What other home pilates equipment do I need?

You can shop the full range of pilates equipment here. Two products worth mentioning are the pilates chair and the ladder barrel. 

The Pilates chair, often referred to as the wunda chair, is a creation of Joseph Pilates, the founder of the method. This compact piece of equipment comprises a padded seat, a pedal, and various springs and straps. Its design facilitates a multitude of exercises targeting different body parts, especially the core muscles. By pressing down on the pedal, users experience resistance, promoting muscle engagement, strength, and toning. The chair isn't just for strength-building; it also aids in stretching and enhancing flexibility. Moreover, its exercises demand focus and precision, contributing to the development of a strong mind-body connection.

The ladder barrel is a piece of pilates equipment that consists of a barrel-shaped structure with a ladder on one side. The barrel is padded and can be adjusted to different levels of incline to accommodate various exercises. The ladder is used for support and stability during exercises that require you to be in an inverted position. The ladder barrel was originally designed by Joseph Pilates himself and is known for its ability to provide a deep stretch and spinal extension. It can also be used to target specific muscle groups, such as the core, back, hips, legs, and upper body.

In addition to the pilates chair and the ladder barrel, there are also a range of accessories which can be used with a reformer. The pilates box and jump-board are both brilliant additions to your reformer workout. Some reformers come with these accessories included and for others you have to purchase them separately.