Pilates Reformers, Pilates Chairs The Pilates Reformer is a carefully engineered exercise apparatus originally designed by Joseph Pilates and improved on over the past four decades. It features a sliding platform with a headrest, footbars and springbars for resistance. The chair, also designed by Pilates himself, was originally known as the Wunda Chair. It is essentially a box with padded surfaces, one of which can be pushed down against the resistance of springs. It is ideal for an efficient home workout, based on resistance, where a Pilates Reformer is not a possibility. Elements of a Pilates Reformer The typical Reformer can accommodate over 100 exercises at nearly infinite levels of resistance. It is compatible with sitting, kneeling, lying, and standing exercises. Together with the adjustable foot and spring bars, the sliding platform helps develop strength and balance. While the benefits are considerable, its disadvantages include size and cost. Designs are coming out that remedy these problems to an extent, but they still remain prohibitive for some home practitioners. |  |
The Pilates Chair, on the other hand, can easily be stored in a corner of your home, double as a casual chair, and traditionally costs about 30-50% the price of a Pilates Reformer. Features to look for in a Pilates chair are at least two sets of springs to adjust resistance, padded, no-slip seating, and a heavy base to prevent tipping. Another nice thing about the chair is compatibility with other Pilates equipment like the mat, Pilates Circle, and exercise bands.
Advances in the Pilates Chair
Previously, even the Pilates Chair was rather unwieldy and expensive. Now, quality designs are available with a six-square foot footprint and cost about 300 dollars. The practice is poised to replace 'spinning' as the exercise of choice at exclusive health clubs. This is good news, since we all know the prospect of frantically pedaling for an hour is not a balanced workout in anybody's mind.
And if the consensus of legions of exercise enthusiasts isn't enough to sway your opinion, plenty of Pilates Chairs suitable double as attractive pieces of furniture when not in use. Often designed from handsome varieties of hardwood and durably upholstered with attractive fabrics, they are at home in your living space or your home gym. Since many practitioners are enthusiasts of efficient living, this is good news indeed.
