The reformer was one of the first pieces of equipment that Joseph Pilates created back in the 1920’s. He used reformers to help rehabilitate solders who sustained injuries from the war, as well as everyday people. So, you’d think the answer to ‘is reformer Pilates suitable for beginners’ would be yes – but it’s not as simple as that unfortunately. This blog will break down the reasons why reformer might or might not be suitable for beginners.
The reasons why reformer might be suitable:
- The reformer is a very accessible to use
The reformer is set anywhere from 30cm-50cm off the ground – meaning that it’s much easier to get on and off compared to the floor. This can be a much friendlier experience for anyone who isn’t able to get on and off the floor easily (elderly, pregnant, injured etc).
- Adjustable spring tensions to offer more support
The reformer is a machine that uses spring tension to provide resistance. This spring tension is adjustable and can made more supportive to anyone who needs extra assistance. Increasing support will help anyone who might be new to Pilates so they can focus on the breath and movement of the exercise.
- Closed chain and pseudo closed chain for proprioception
The reformer not only uses spring tension, but also parts that offer increased proprioception. Proprioception is the ability to recognise where the body is in space. The
footbar sits at the end of the reformer and usually has 3 different height settings. The footbar is a fixed part of the reformer that (depending on the exercise) hands or feet press against. This extra piece of information about where the body is in space helps the brain to form new neural pathways and can help the beginner focus on the other aspects of Pilates without worrying if their extremities are in the right place.
Reasons why reformer might not be suitable:
- It can take time to adjust to the reformer
As the reformer has adjustable parts, it can take time to get used to it all. How the footbar moves, how the carriage moves, where to place the straps etc. Pilates itself is not easy and there are many different things to think about whilst getting the hang of the movements and terminology, therefore, the extra brain power used to use the reformer on top of all of that can sometimes seem too much.
- Moving parts can create instability
As mentioned previously, there are moving parts of the reformer. The carriage is the ‘bed’ part of a reformer and moves backwards and forwards. Some exercises require to be kneeling or standing on the reformer which can challenge balance. There are always modifications and regressions for these exercises but it’s something to keep in mind if balance is an issue for you.
- It is easier for the body to compensate
This notion has been twisted a little bit with some not so great information out there. There is an idea that it is easy to ‘cheat’ on a reformer, which essentially means that reformer classes are easier than mat or other types of Pilates. This is not true! Where this notion came from is that because the reformer can assist you with spring tension and more proprioceptive feedback, it makes the movements easier. Whilst this has some truth to it, what can happen is that other parts of the body can compensate to make it seem easier. As beginners might not be aware of proper breathing techniques/body alignment, this can affect how the exercise is performed, resulting in not knowing the purpose behind the exercises.
However, PPF offer introduction classes which are recommended for beginners. These classes will take you through all the parts of the reformers, how to use them and safety aspects too. Once you’ve attended an intro class, the regular classes won’t seem so overwhelming.
With all that being said, Pilates is not about being perfect! Like anything, the first few times you try something new, it’s always going to be clunky, confusing and strange. The important thing to remember as a beginner is to take things slow, listen to instructions and to ask as many questions as you need to feel comfortable and safe.
So, if you’re unsure where reformer Pilates is right for you, ask one of our friendly staff for some guidance. Tell them your goals and your possible limitations and they can help you decided if reformer classes will be beneficial for you. It might be that you start with mat Pilates to get you familiar with the terminology, form and movement patterns. Whatever your Pilates journey looks like, the PPF staff will be supporting you every step of the way!
