Reformer training: la croix

Despite the Medieval name, Reformer is a very smart and elegant apparatus. Joseph H. Pilates called it “Apparatus”. It is a wooden bed with frame. A flat platform is moving on the frame forth and back. We can train the whole-body using loops for hands and feet and a gear bar system with springs as resistance.

The exercises may be easy, basic to advanced, very difficult to acrobatic.

They all promote a better daily life or in other words quality of life. Specifically, there are benefits on body posture and body efficiency. Pains associated with muscular/physical imbalances are relieved. There is also the advantage of full range of motion while executing exercises. The result is the improvement of flexibility while building strength and “strong bones”.

La Croix

Exercise of the week!

Starting position

Sit  on the long box with your feet on the head pad. Arms are in front of the body with bent elbows  in a diamond formation, hands holding the crossed loops.

Execution

Inhale and during exhalation press both arms straight back, keeping diamond formation.

la croix

CUES:

– Move slowly

– Engage your shoulder blades

– Elongate your spine

 

Varvara Solomonidou,Wellness Specialist, Personal Trainer, Seminar & Conference Lecturer, Pilates Master Trainer “AthensTrainers® Ultimate Pilates System®”, Member of Pilates Method Alliance (PMA),  Member of European Lifestyle Medicine Organization (ELMO), DNAFit®  Certified Trainer, General Manager & Owner of AthensTrainers®