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Reformer pilates is gaining significant traction in fitness communities, with new studios opening regularly across major cities worldwide. But what exactly is reformer pilates, and how does it compare to regular pilates or other forms of exercise? With classes often costing a premium, it’s worth exploring the benefits and drawbacks to help you decide whether this workout is right for you.
What is Reformer Pilates?
Pilates is a well-known exercise system that emphasizes core stability, flexibility, muscular strength, endurance, balance, and overall fitness. At first glance, it may resemble yoga, with some elements of traditional weight training incorporated. Reformer pilates builds on this by incorporating a special piece of equipment called a “reformer,” a narrow bed-like machine with a sliding carriage, adjustable springs, and straps for added resistance.
While mat pilates uses only body weight for resistance, the reformer provides additional resistance through springs that can be adjusted according to fitness levels. Initially designed for injury recovery, reformer pilates has evolved to cater to general fitness and sports performance, offering the flexibility to increase or decrease intensity as needed.
The Benefits of Reformer Pilates
Despite its long-standing popularity, research into the specific benefits of reformer pilates remains limited. However, existing studies suggest that it delivers benefits similar to other forms of exercise.
Reformer pilates has been shown to help with weight loss, increase muscle mass, and boost cognitive function—key outcomes often associated with a combination of weight training and cardiovascular exercise. Among older adults, it can improve strength, flexibility, and even lower the risk of falls.
From a rehabilitation standpoint, reformer pilates has been associated with improved shoulder function, reduced lower back pain, and increased flexibility. Additionally, preliminary research suggests that a single session of reformer pilates can enhance cardiovascular health markers, such as flow-mediated dilation, pulse wave velocity, cholesterol levels, and insulin sensitivity. While these findings point to long-term heart and metabolic health improvements, more research is needed to confirm these effects universally.
The Drawbacks of Reformer Pilates
However, reformer pilates is not without its drawbacks. One of the primary considerations is cost. Pilates classes, especially those using reformers, tend to be expensive, often priced between $20 and $30 per session. To reap the full benefits of reformer pilates, it is recommended to attend at least two to three sessions per week, which can quickly become a significant financial commitment.
Additionally, reformer pilates is not widely available in all areas. While major cities typically have numerous studios, it may be challenging for individuals living in smaller towns or less urbanized regions to find a nearby reformer pilates studio.
The effectiveness of a session also depends heavily on the instructor’s qualifications and experience. In Australia, for example, there are varying levels of pilates qualifications, and some instructors may not have the in-depth training required to optimize your experience. To ensure quality instruction, it is recommended to seek accredited instructors, but this could further limit your options.
Another challenge is the learning curve associated with using the reformer machine. Beginners may find the equipment unfamiliar and challenging to navigate at first, leading to a less effective workout during the early stages.
Is Reformer Pilates Right for You?
Reformer pilates can be a valuable addition to your fitness routine, particularly if you’re looking for a low-impact way to enhance strength and flexibility. It is ideal for individuals who want a broad range of health benefits without the intense impact associated with other forms of exercise.
However, if you have more specific fitness goals—such as increasing strength for daily activities or training for a marathon—you may benefit more from targeted exercises, such as strength training or running.
Given the cost and accessibility issues, those on a budget or with limited access to reformer pilates studios may consider mat pilates as an alternative. Mat pilates, which provides many of the same benefits without the equipment, can be practiced at home with minimal expense—resources like YouTube offer a great starting point for at-home practice.
Ultimately, whether reformer pilates is worth the cost depends on your individual fitness goals and your willingness to invest in a specialized fitness routine. For some, the benefits and experience may outweigh the financial commitment, while others may find similar results through more accessible, cost-effective options.
Article provided by The Conversation
