The reformer is one of the most popular pieces of Pilates equipment that features a sliding platform attached to springs and ropes. The equipment helps in lengthening the muscles, improving balance, and strengthening the core. Pilates has been designed to help people achieve optimal body alignment. The reformer is a great tool for doing just that. Here’s how the reformer can help you achieve proper alignment.
- Neutral Spine Position
The reformer’s sliding platform facilitates the positioning of the spine in its neutral position. The neutral position refers to the natural alignment of your spine that minimizes the spinal stress. When using the reformer, it is important to keep your spine in this neutral position. A proper neutral spine alignment allows you to work your core muscles more effectively.
- Improved Posture
Correct posture is vital to maintaining a healthy and pain-free spine. Rationalizing your spine’s curves helps distribute your body weight evenly across your spine. The springs on the reformer help to redistribute your weight and strengthen the muscles around your spine, helping you attain a straighter, more elongated posture.
- Strengthening the Core
The reformer’s resistance-based exercises are perfect for working on core strength while facilitating proper alignment. The machine allows for a range of exercises that target the core muscles known as the deep stabilizing muscles.
- Balanced Muscle Development
Through its unique design features, the reformer promotes balanced muscle development. The exercise movements on the reformer require a lot of bilateral movement, meaning that both sides of the body are worked equally. This ensures that there is no over-development of one side of the body, which can result in incorrect alignment and muscular imbalances.
- Increased Flexibility
Flexibility is essential for the proper range of motion of your joints. The reformer can help improve your flexibility by allowing you to stretch while also strengthening your muscles. The controlled range of motion in the reformer’s exercises can also help with joint rehabilitation.
In conclusion, proper alignment is an important aspect of Pilates and can be achieved through exercises on the reformer. The equipment provides a great support system to stabilize your body and re-adjust your posture. In addition, the reformer strengthens your core muscles, improves balance, and helps you achieve better flexibility. Incorporating Pilates reformer exercises into your workout routine can help improve your overall wellbeing.