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.
While some may prefer to learn this technique in a group or private lesson offered by a gym or studio, others may feel more at ease doing so independently with either an online tutorial or instructional DVD they can follow at their own pace. Whichever method of instruction one chooses, the participant will soon get familiarized with the various types of equipment and the manner in which they are used, so they can then look into purchasing their own.
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.
Accessories are some of the most affordable kinds of equipment used to enhance a Pilates workout and they occupy relatively little space, making them a good choice for anyone, even those in smaller quarters. Inflatable exercise balls, can be incorporated into floor routines and are excellent for strength and balance exercises, medicine balls are weighted for upper body strengthening, and for resistance work, there are rings and resistance bands.
The primary machine used in the practice of Pilates is the reformer. It allows the user to perform several key moves on one versatile piece of equipment. Reformers consist of a metal or wooden frame that is outfitted with a padded sliding carriage, shoulder blocks, hand grips, and a foot bar, with resistance being supplied by a combination of pulleys and four underlying springs which respond to the user's movements.
Another piece of equipment similar to but more specific than the reformer is the "Cadillac". This machine is primarily used to concentrate on the muscles of the arms and legs. Spring-loaded loops, handles, roll-back and push-through bars provide varied levels of resistance for exercises performed using the Cadillac. It can also be used as an alternative to floor exercises and for warm-ups.
Pilates chairs are specially designed to aid one's workout and build strength in a targeted area. The ultra-versatile "Wunda Chair" can be converted into multiple forms, and offers a mini version of what the reformer does. While the "high" chair helps perfect one's postural alignment, and the "baby" chair is used to build core and upper body strength.
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.
While some may prefer to learn this technique in a group or private lesson offered by a gym or studio, others may feel more at ease doing so independently with either an online tutorial or instructional DVD they can follow at their own pace. Whichever method of instruction one chooses, the participant will soon get familiarized with the various types of equipment and the manner in which they are used, so they can then look into purchasing their own.
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.
Accessories are some of the most affordable kinds of equipment used to enhance a Pilates workout and they occupy relatively little space, making them a good choice for anyone, even those in smaller quarters. Inflatable exercise balls, can be incorporated into floor routines and are excellent for strength and balance exercises, medicine balls are weighted for upper body strengthening, and for resistance work, there are rings and resistance bands.
The primary machine used in the practice of Pilates is the reformer. It allows the user to perform several key moves on one versatile piece of equipment. Reformers consist of a metal or wooden frame that is outfitted with a padded sliding carriage, shoulder blocks, hand grips, and a foot bar, with resistance being supplied by a combination of pulleys and four underlying springs which respond to the user's movements.
Another piece of equipment similar to but more specific than the reformer is the "Cadillac". This machine is primarily used to concentrate on the muscles of the arms and legs. Spring-loaded loops, handles, roll-back and push-through bars provide varied levels of resistance for exercises performed using the Cadillac. It can also be used as an alternative to floor exercises and for warm-ups.
Pilates chairs are specially designed to aid one's workout and build strength in a targeted area. The ultra-versatile "Wunda Chair" can be converted into multiple forms, and offers a mini version of what the reformer does. While the "high" chair helps perfect one's postural alignment, and the "baby" chair is used to build core and upper body strength.
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.
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