SPOTLIGHT ON…THE REFORMER
WHAT IS A REFORMER?
The Reformer was designed by Joseph Pilates and is an integral part of the Pilates studio. A moving carriage is connected to a frame by springs and pulleys. These springs and pulleys to create variable degrees of resistance and support. It was originally called the “Universal Reformer” and effectively it does what it says on the tin…universally reforms the body!
The beauty of the Reformer is what it offers the user. It can provide assistance, create new challenges, provide feedback and enhance body awareness. A Reformer workout is not easy, but it really does make you feel amazing! I introduced the Reformer into my studio back in 2020 and whenever clients give it a go they are hooked! So here is a deeper look into the main benefits of this amazing piece of apparatus.
THE CARRIAGE
The carriage is the main moving part of this piece of apparatus. It comprises a cushioned carriage with 2 shoulder rests and a head rest. Behind the shoulder rests are posts or hooks onto which your straps are placed when not in use.
During a Reformer workout you will typically find yourself moving through different positions on the carriage including laying on your back, laying on your side, seated, on all 4s and standing. It’s not uncommon for clients to look a little apprehensive when they first get onto the carriage, and I often hear first time clients ask “what is it going to do?”. My response is always the same…it will do whatever you tell it to do! You are in control of the carriage.
THE SPRINGS
The carriage is connected to the main frame of the Reformer by a series of springs.
The number and strength of the springs can vary depending on whether you are on a traditional or contemporary style of Reformer.
The traditional, or “classical”, Reformer has 4 springs, all of the same weight. Contemporary Reformers often have 5 springs of varying weights from light to heavy. Some home reformers use pulleys instead of springs.
We can change the number of springs connected to the carriage to make the resistance lighter of heavier. Lighter doesn’t always mean easier - it can also make an exercise more challenging by requiring greater control.
THE FOOTBAR
The footbar is attached at the front end of the carriage. It can be raised up when in use, or folded away when not in use.
The footbar serves as a fixed point of stability in our exercises on the Reformer. We can work with our feet on the footbar or with our hands on. This makes Reformer fantastic for working the feet and the hands/wrists/forearms.
STRAPS AND PULLEYS
Two straps are attached to the carriage. These straps run through risers at the back of the Reformer frame, creating a pulley system.
The handles or loops are designed to be held in your hands or go around your feet. Feet in straps work is a firm favourite amongst many clients!
Classical Reformers have handles for arm work and loops for your feet. Many contemporary reformers will have 2 sets of loops that are used for both hands and feet.
THE BOX
Exercises on the box can be super challenging but they are so rewarding when you achieve them. We can also use the box to help make some exercises more accessible for clients.
We often refer to it as “long box” or “short box” depending on which way round the box is placed on the Reformer.
DIFFERENT TYPES OF REFORMER
A Traditional or Classical Reformer is one made closely to the specifications of Joseph Pilates’s equipment. Classical style Reformers typically have 4 springs of the same weight, and a foot bar that can be either up or down. The straps are usually leather (or vegan leather) with wooden handles for arm work. The way the carriage moves can also feel different with a classical style Reformer vs more contemporary styles, with greater effort required to pull the carriage back in.
Contemporary Reformers are modern day adaptations of the original apparatus, that have been modified to create greater flexibility of use. These can differ between brands but there are usually 5 springs of different weights, and the footbar can be moved through a range of positions. Ropes are used instead of leather straps, and material loops instead of handles. Contemporary Reformers are often created to offer greater adjustability and a smoother, quieter ride. Smaller, lighter reformers for home use have also been produced. These may use pulleys instead of springs, and tend to sit closer to the floor so that they can be more easily stacked away after use.
I have worked on both classical and contemporary style Reformers and they each have something to offer. I originally opened the first apparatus studio with a contemporary style Reformer from Align Pilates. However much of my training has been on a classical Reformer and I love the way the classical reformers feel and move. The Pilates Studio at Lavant House is home to my beautiful traditional style Reformer from Pilates Arregon. We also have access to some amazing contemporary Reformers from BASI in the studio for those who would benefit from the adaptability these Reformers offer. We are lucky to have a studio that offers high quality Reformers from both the traditional and contemporary world.
WORKING ON THE REFORMER
The Reformer is an integral part of the Pilates system of apparatus.
When working out on the Reformer you will be guided through exercises using every part of this fabulous piece of kit. It is a real full body workout that will help build strength, mobility and body awareness. The feedback you get from the Reformer is incredible and you will learn a lot about how your body moves. Clients are quickly hooked once they start to work on the Reformer, and there is such a wealth of possibilities when it comes to new exercises and challenges for your body.
As a teacher, watching someone working on the Reformer will tell me so much about how their body moves - what parts are strong, what parts need a little more encouragement, and most importantly how the whole body works together. The Reformer is not just a piece of apparatus to work out on, it is an education in how your body moves!
In the studio we use the Reformer as part of your program in our private 1:1, duet and group apparatus sessions. Find out more about the apparatus studio or get in touch to discuss your needs.