Pilates reformer was developed as part of the Pilates protocol for whole-body fitness by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900s. Intended to help the body “relearn” how it was meant to move, this intricate piece of machinery helps the body flow and move against resistance to gain strength, stability and fluidity.
Pilates exercises unite mind and body through controlled breathing and a carefully crafted sequence of movements. In the case of reformer, movements are performed on a machine that provides external resistance as you push, pull and twist through the series.
The machine—a seat on track, attached to springs for resistance and outfitted with ropes and bars for balance and alignment—became central to the Pilates practice. When performing exercises, the machine keeps the body in the correct position, providing tactile feedback to help us know when we’re in the right spot and hitting the right muscles.
The Pilates reformer sequence follows a series of moves to open, lengthen and strengthen the feet, legs, glutes, hips, shoulders, back and arms—all the while engaging the core to stay stable and balanced. Some exercises are performed supine on the cadillac (that moving seat) while others are performed kneeling, sitting or laying on the side. Each exercise is balanced by another: for every contraction, there is a release and for every push there is a pull. It truly is a full-body routine. You will leave feeling longer, more connected with your breath and in touch with some tiny muscles you may not have known you had.
