Pilates consists of a unique set of moves designed to strengthen the core, and improve flexibility and alignment in the body that are performed using various types of equipment, which those who are dedicated to getting results may want to consider buying. Before investing in a particular Pilates apparatus it's a good idea to know what the essentials are, and the role each one plays.
It isn't necessary to attend private or group lessons in a studio or gym, those who are looking to learn this technique can also do so with an instructional DVD or online tutorial in the comfort of their own home. Students will become familiar with all of the equipment needed to set up a home Pilates studio and they will learn the specific moves each of these machines or contraptions is used for.
Central to the Pilates program is the exercise mat. This is by far the most common piece of equipment which participants from beginners to instructors use for floor exercises. The amount of padding and size of mats varies to suit different preferences. They fold up to be easily stored or transported elsewhere.
Workout accessories do not occupy a lot of space, are relatively affordable, and help intensify the results of the exercise program. Examples of accessories one should strongly consider purchasing include inflatable exercise balls, which are great for balance and strengthening moves and can be added to any floor routine. Also, medicine balls for upper body concentration, and resistance bands or rings for muscle targeting and resistance-focused exercises.
The reformer is a very versatile workout machine that is pivotal to successful Pilates training. This structure consists of a wooden or metal frame that is equipped with such components as shoulder blocks, hand grips, foot bar, padded sliding carriage, as well as a system of four underlying springs and a series of pulleys that provide resistance to the user's movements. It's design allows the user to carry out multiple moves on one machine.
A similar workout can be accomplished using a machine known as the "Cadillac", but it offers a more intense focus on building the muscles of the legs and arms. Resistance differs according to the particular exercise being performed and is produced by a series of roll-back and push-through bars, and spring-loaded handles and loops. It is also a suitable alternative to floor exercises and can provide a good warm-up routine.
There are several specially designed chairs used in Pilates, each with its own purpose. The "high" chair is excellent for improving one's posture and alignment, while the "baby" chair strengthens the core and upper body mostly. The most versatile of these is the convertible "Wunda chair", which can be used in many of the same ways as the reformer, but with an approach that calls for more fine-tuned control from the user.
If one's concern is to improve the flexibility and alignment of the spine and upper body, spine barrel correctors are the perfect workout companion. They resemble a wooden barrel covered with padding although they are stationary, and are used for various stretching and strengthening exercises of the shoulders, back, and upper torso.
It isn't necessary to attend private or group lessons in a studio or gym, those who are looking to learn this technique can also do so with an instructional DVD or online tutorial in the comfort of their own home. Students will become familiar with all of the equipment needed to set up a home Pilates studio and they will learn the specific moves each of these machines or contraptions is used for.
Central to the Pilates program is the exercise mat. This is by far the most common piece of equipment which participants from beginners to instructors use for floor exercises. The amount of padding and size of mats varies to suit different preferences. They fold up to be easily stored or transported elsewhere.
Workout accessories do not occupy a lot of space, are relatively affordable, and help intensify the results of the exercise program. Examples of accessories one should strongly consider purchasing include inflatable exercise balls, which are great for balance and strengthening moves and can be added to any floor routine. Also, medicine balls for upper body concentration, and resistance bands or rings for muscle targeting and resistance-focused exercises.
The reformer is a very versatile workout machine that is pivotal to successful Pilates training. This structure consists of a wooden or metal frame that is equipped with such components as shoulder blocks, hand grips, foot bar, padded sliding carriage, as well as a system of four underlying springs and a series of pulleys that provide resistance to the user's movements. It's design allows the user to carry out multiple moves on one machine.
A similar workout can be accomplished using a machine known as the "Cadillac", but it offers a more intense focus on building the muscles of the legs and arms. Resistance differs according to the particular exercise being performed and is produced by a series of roll-back and push-through bars, and spring-loaded handles and loops. It is also a suitable alternative to floor exercises and can provide a good warm-up routine.
There are several specially designed chairs used in Pilates, each with its own purpose. The "high" chair is excellent for improving one's posture and alignment, while the "baby" chair strengthens the core and upper body mostly. The most versatile of these is the convertible "Wunda chair", which can be used in many of the same ways as the reformer, but with an approach that calls for more fine-tuned control from the user.
If one's concern is to improve the flexibility and alignment of the spine and upper body, spine barrel correctors are the perfect workout companion. They resemble a wooden barrel covered with padding although they are stationary, and are used for various stretching and strengthening exercises of the shoulders, back, and upper torso.
