There are endless options for exercise videos and equipment that you can buy to use in your home, if you are trying to shed weight and shape up. However, care must be taken that you do not concentrate on just one part of your body.
The most popular of all equipment is the Pilates Reformer. It is a sophisticated system of springs, straps and pulleys. You can perform more than 100 exercises on this versatile piece of equipment.
There is a gliding platform on which one can sit, kneel, stand or lie on the front, back or side. There is a foot bar which is pushed and pulled by the user using the arms, legs, wrists and ankles to slide back and forth along the rails in a controlled manner.
The Pilates Reformer is recommended for establishing torso stability and postural alignment. The adjustable springs allow for progressive resistance, which helps to lengthen and strengthen the muscles.
The Reformer is a fixture in Pilates studios and gyms as well as places like rehabilitation clinics. A more economical, compact, and portable model such as the Allegro is available to cater towards group classes.
Prices are in the $2000-$4000 range for various models of quality Reformers.
Another popular piece of equipment is the Pilates Cadillac, which is also known as ‘The Rack’ and ‘Trapeze Table.” It is one of the most effective and versatile pieces of exercise equipment, and is a bridge between exercise and physical therapy.
The Cadillac is a raised horizontal table-top surrounded by a four-poster frame on which various bars, straps, springs and levers are fixed. Standard models include a push-through bar (which can be sprung from above or below), a roll-down bar, a trapeze or cross bar, arm springs, leg springs, thigh and ankle cuffs and even fuzzy hanging loops.
Several manufacturers have combined the Reformer and Cadillac to make hybrid models.
There is also Pilates Chair, also known as the Wunda Chair, for carrying out more than 75 exercises involving push-up-like moves with the arms. The price of a basic Pilates Chair starts at around $700 but can be more than $1200.
Pilates Ladder Barrels, consisting of ladder-like rungs and a rounded barrel-like surface, enable a multitude of stretching, strengthening and flexibility exercises. Professional-quality ladder barrels come in the $900 to $1500 range.
For mat workouts, there are Pilates Arc Barrels, which are upholstered arches that help support the back and shoulders. They are great rehabilitative tools for those recovering from stress, tension or injury. They range in price from $130 to $230.
The Pilates Spine Corrector has a sort of a whistle shape, with a semi-circular arch plus an angled step or seat. The unit is effective for stretching the spine and shoulders in a way that is safe, stable, and supported. Pricing is in the $300 to $450 range.
Related Articles of Interest :
-
Pilates Yoga
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Though referred to as yoga, the Pilates exercise regime has no connection with it and works on entirely different approaches. The common factor between yoga and Pilates programs is their emphasis on mental focus and breath control during exercise. Some refer to Pilates as ‘yoga...
-
The Benefits of Pilates Exercises
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Pilates is comprised of over 500 controlled exercises that are a balanced blend of strength and flexibility training intended to improve posture, create long, lean muscles, and reduce stress. Pilates exercises have evolved over the past 75 years. Through smooth, continuous motion, Pilates works multiple...
-
An Introduction to Pilates
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Pilates is a series of exercises designed to improve flexibility and strength through a variety of stretching and balancing movements. It was developed by Joseph Pilates, a prisoner of war during the Second World War, and has become increasingly popular. From when he was very...
-
The Benefits of Using Pilates Videos
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Pilates videos give you a low-impact yet highly intense workout that you’ll look forward to doing over and again. You will feel refreshed and alert. Pilates videos can be used by most anyone, young or old, whether you are very fit or out of shape....
-
A Guide to Earning Pilates Certification
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Whether you want to work in a Pilates studio, a fitness club, a therapeutic clinic, or as a personal trainer, the first thing you need to do is to get certified from a reputable Pilates training institution. There are accredited training institutions that run certification...
-
Choosing the Right Pilates Class
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Every Pilates studio, health club, spa and fitness facility has its own training classes and programs. If you have a limited budget, it is a good idea to join a group class. This is a great, relatively economical place for beginners to start, and have...
-
What Type of Pilates Studio is Right for You?
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Studios are the best option for people who don’t want to work out in their home, but do want to undergo the rigors of Pilates exercises under the guidance of experts and on the appropriate equipment. There are studios in almost all major cities and...
-
Endometriosis and Pilates
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Pilates is a body conditioning system, invented by Joseph H. Pilates over eighty years ago. It is popular among performers and devotees of the fitness world, and its simplicity attracts many new practitioners. Pilates consists of over 500 controlled exercises that improve posture, reduces stress,...
-
Used Exercise Equipment
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
Used exercise equipment is widely available on the market today. New exercise machines cost several thousands dollars, and used exercise equipments is a viable alternative to costly new machines. Commercial grade refurbished exercise machines are available for a fraction of the original cost. You can...
-
Best Exercise Equipment Companies
10 August 2010 8:30 PM |
No Comments
There are a variety of exercise machines that range from weight loss equipment to weight gain or weight measuring machines. Many gymnasiums and clubs in and around the town are equipped with the latest and reputed brands of exercise machines. Exercise plays an important in...