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”.
Jack Rabbit
Kneel on the reformer and round the back, keeping the arms straight. Use the gluteal muscles and thighs to push and pull your lower body back and forth.
CUES:
- Avoid locking your elbows
- Avoid supporting your weight on your shoulders
- Keep your head aligned with your spine when extending your legs
- Keep your arms relaxed
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®
