A simple Pilates mat can be used to perform Pilates exercises and there are hundreds of beginning uses as well as advanced uses for the complete repertoire, for a workout on the floor. In spite of this, there are five specialized pieces of Pilates equipment that can be used and these are the Pilates Reformer, the Pilates Resistance Bands, the Pilates Cadillac, The Pilates Barrel and the Pilates Chair. In addition, there are a few accessories or Pilates Props which may add variety and intensity to the complete Pilates experience.

Some of these Pilates equipment such as the Pilates Circles are able to give spring resistance while others, such as the Pilates Spine Supporter, give support as well as a host of unique exercises that may be performed on the total body. The mat based Pilates workout is also an authentic and effective workout that uses the Pilates exercise methods. However, for many of those wishing to experience the Pilates equipment based exercises they should do so under the guidance of a trained professional.

Pilates Reformer is the Most Popular

Arguably, the most well known of all Pilates equipment is the Pilates Reformer which consists of a sophisticated system of springs, straps and pulleys and on which more than one hundred exercises may be performed, which makes it an extremely versatile apparatus. The root of this Pilates equipment is the gliding platform that is used to sit on, kneel, stand or lie on the front, back or side with the exerciser pushing and pulling the foot bars while using his arms, legs, wrists and ankles to slide back and forth in a controlled way along the rails and the tension in the springs works on the muscles, gently.

The torso is stabilized using the Pilates Reformer and, the posture gets aligned while working the peripheral limbs in a range of motion. Because the springs can be adjusted, they allow for progressive resistance that helps to lengthen and give more strength to the muscles, instead of bulk building. This results in an effective and no-impact stretching as well as toning workout that helps the joints also.

Another Pilates equipment that looks a lot like a stylish stool is the Pilates Chair, also referred to as Wunda Chair or Stability Chair, which is a very versatile exercise machine. The word chair may be a bit misleading as it does not necessarily imply a sit-down workout even though many Pilates exercises entail the exerciser to perform exercises sitting down on top and pressing down on the step/pedal with his feet. However, other exercises need the exerciser to lie on the floor or stand up straight while lunging forward or doing push-up like moves with his arms. The Chair may be used to perform as many as 75 exercises and is a great addition to the exerciser’s physical fitness regime.

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