Pilates Equipment

It is now possible to set up a Pilates home workout studio with the equipment in the styles that Joseph Pilates designed for his original classic Pilates Method. There is now a wide variety of sizes available which make the equipment much more affordable than in the past.

It was during World War I, when he was sent to an internment camp in England, that joseph Pilates began testing his exercises on injured soldiers. For those who were immobilized, he rigged up their hospital beds with springs, creating resistance to help them regain their strength—from that experiment came the idea for the Pilates Reformer.

Pilates went on to design several more spring-based pieces of equipment with adjustable straps and movable bars. When he brought it all to New York in the 1920s, dancers including the renowned George Balanchine and Martha Graham, enthusiastically embraced the Pilates Method.

Pilates Reformer

The Pilates equipment uses the resistance of springs to create effort. The principle piece of equipment is called the Reformer and consists of a sliding platform anchored at one end of its frame with springs. The platform can be moved by either pulling on ropes or pushing off from a stationary bar. Thus, exercises include the challenge of moving the platform and maintaining balance on a moving surface (if sitting or standing).

Pilates Cadillac

Another classic Pilates machine is called the Cadillac and consists of a padded platform with a cage-like frame above it. From this frame various bars or straps are attached by springs.

Pilates Barrel

The Pilates Barrel is a simpler piece of equipment designed to complement mat work in exercises that open the upper back to enhance flexibility and correct posture. The barrel is usually made with a sturdy wood frame with a well-cushioned foam and vinyl curved form.

Learn the fundamentals from a skilled instructor

It is important to learn how to use specially designed Pilates equipment correctly, so it is always advisable to start with a group or private program with a Pilates instructor trained in the use of Pilates equipment. As with Pilates mat work, you will want to be familiar with breathing techniques as well as alignment for specific positions and movements. Videos and books that accompany Pilates equipment are ideal for maintaining your Pilates practice in between sessions with your instructor until you are at an advanced level. It will then be possible for you to successfully continue advancing your Pilates on your own without likelihood of injury or improper technique.

	Stamina Pilates Premier™ The Pilates Premier™ is the top of the line Pilates machine. Easy enough for a beginner but strong enough for the most advanced user this is the machine for you! The Pilates Premier™ uses these same fitness methods to train and strengthen your whole body. Each exercise engages the abdominals, training your body to use them in every activity you perform. It allows the user to develop tighter stomach and abdominal muscles, as well as shaping and tightening your buttocks, hip and thighs. The Pilates Premier helps the user to increase their flexibility and coordination to stand taller and move with more grace. BigFitness.
	Pilates Performer The Pilates Performer™ i has a full list of features and special design enhancements that make your workouts more effective and enjoyable. Quiet, ultra-smooth rollers bear the weight of the sliding carriage as you move back and forth for a low-impact total-body workout. Personal workout video, along with a full color workout chart. Heavy-duty elastic cords provide four levels of resistance. The headrest and straps are also adjustable and the high density foam pads are oversized for additional comfort. Machine folds with a removable foot bar for easy storage. Constructed with a sturdy steel frame. Comfortable padded cushion. Wheels for easy movement. BigFitness.
	Stamina Pilates Home Studio The Pilates Home Studio is great for both the beginner and the advanced. The Pilates Method of body conditioning was originally developed in the 1920's to help dancers and professional athletes restore and build muscle tone and strength. This method focuses on building a healthy, injury free body by encouraging controlled and concentrated movement. It centers the body with breathing awareness while maintaining a dynamic flow. If you want better control of your body, both mentally and physically, this method is for you. Includes: Workout Mat, Small Barrel, Magic Circle and two Instructional Videos. BigFitness.