Before purchasing a home pilates reformer, it’s best to take a pilates class at a gym or fitness center and learn to perform basic pilates movements correctly. The fitness center may have a pilates reformer for members to use to get an idea of which features to seek out or avoid when buying one for home. Although a consumer should not buy a pilates reformer without trying it out first, online reviews can be useful to get information from others who have used it for a while and can share their likes and dislikes about the product.
Home pilates reformers are machines that can be used at fitness centers or at home to deliver all of the benefits that are inherent in pilates workouts, like core strength, coordination, and flexibility. Opinions differ on whether it’s best to start out with pilates mat exercises and take a class to get acquainted with basic pilates exercises before moving on to a pilates reformer. Most important is to learn correct form in the presence of a certified pilates instructor and be able to consistently practice it, whether beginning on the mat or a reformer. This will help avoid injury in the home.
At a fitness center, using a pilates reformer can give you an idea of what types of usability features are important to consider when it comes time to buy. Consider how sturdy a home pilates reformer feels before purchasing it. It should feel strong and not move or shake excessively when performing movements. A home pilates reformer should be simple to use. The machine should adjust easily to accommodate differing body types and strength levels and feel smooth during movements.
Trying out a pilates reformer at the gym first can also help with learning how to use the machine and the types of exercises that can be done on it. A home pilates reformer consists of many separate components that can be used by different body parts for exercises. It should come with a detailed instruction manual and an exercise DVD led by a certified pilates instructor.
Many fitness centers offer private lessons to get beginners well acquainted with the capabilities of a pilates reformer. The reformer offers more resistance and support and can make workouts more challenging than mat workouts if used correctly. It can also help those who are recovering from injury, cannot perform weight-bearing exercises, or who have a limited range of motion. Once the basics are mastered, group classes can help guide and refine technique.