Pilates Reformer Exercises
Art Fennell Reports' Janet Zappala takes a look at Pilates. Taking Pilates reformer exercise classes are fun and challenging. You are working against resistance on the Pilates reformer so a good flow to the exercise is needed. You will start with footwork and work your way through more complicated movements and breath patterns.
Find an instructor who will guide you in the basic principles such as neutral spine, breathing and correct body positioning. Your instructor should be able to guide you with imprinted and neutral spine positions as you move from one exercise to the next. It is important to keep that spine supported when working against resistance.
Here is a picture of someone using the long box on top of the Pilates reformer. This is the plow exercise. Some of the muscles that are being used here are erector spinae, latissimus dorsi and teres major. If you are just moving forwards and backwards on the carriage with no real emphasis of the Pilates principles you are not getting the most out of your workout. You can join a group or pay for private lessons. As always it is probably better to have some private lessons before attempting a group session. You will be more confident when transitioning between exercises and be able to move with the pace of the class.
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It does take a little while to become comfortable with your feet in the straps and to you will also need to know the best position of the carriage for your height.
