The (in)Famous Reformer was the first of several pieces of equipment invented by Joseph Pilates, who had ambitious plans on making Pilates worldwide an everyday practice to strengthen and control our bodies and ultimately improve our health. He even wrote a book called Return to Life about his philosophy and how Pilates underpins Life at its best - but I digress, and will save that for another time...
But the beloved Reformer isn’t just a piece of equipment - it’s a complex and versatile character in the story of your fitness journey, and it's sure to leave a lasting impression. And by lasting, I mean you’ll feel muscles you didn’t even know existed. Just in case you're not familiar, let me introduce you to this ingenious contraption.
Meet the Reformer: The Medieval Torture Device Masquerading as Fitness Equipment
At first glance, the Pilates Reformer might look like something out of a medieval torture chamber. Straps, springs, pulleys?!!! But don't let its appearance scare you off. This sleek, sliding bench is your ticket to a stronger core, better posture, and the realization that your body can indeed bend that way. It’s like doing TRX on wheels, but with a lot more grunting, 'fun' and insight into how your body moves.
First Encounter: Love at First Sight (or Not)
Your first Reformer session is a bit like a blind date. You’re not quite sure what to expect, but you’ve heard good things. The Reformer lies there, all sleek and mysterious, whispering promises of a toned physique. But just like any blind date, things can get awkward fast. 'Put your foot where?' 'How do I reach that strap?' Even getting on and off the darn thing can seem like a Herculean task. It might take a bit of time figuring out which way is up, but don’t worry, it's well worth investing that time and very soon, it will feel like you've been a lifelong Reformist.
The Learning Curve: From Wobbling to Wonder
Those first few sessions might have you feeling like Bambi on ice, especially when you're inevitably asked to stand on this mysterious sliding machine, but stick with it! The Reformer is like a wise old mentor - it pushes you for better or worse, challenges you, and eventually, helps you discover strengths you never knew you had. Because you're working in a closed chain environment i.e. with feedback from all directions, it'll highlight any imbalances, help to activate and/or correct movement patterns in a way that might be different from what you're used from the mat. So that shaky, wobbly feeling? That’s your muscles waking up, working their wonder and saying, 'Hey, remember me?'
The Reformer Lingo: Springs, Carriages, and Footbars—Oh My!
Pilates Reformer sessions come with their own language. You’ll hear terms like 'carriage', 'footbar', 'springs' and 'straps' It sounds a bit like an automotive shop, but don’t be fooled. Each term is part of the secret code to unlocking your Reformer prowess and proficiency. Adjusting the springs might seem like a cryptic task at first, but soon enough, you’ll be doing it with the confidence of a seasoned mechanic and the rest of your Reformer language will advance from basic to independent.
The Aftermath: The Good, the Bad, and the Sore
Post-Reformer session, you’ll experience a range of emotions. The good: a sense of accomplishment and maybe a Pilates high. The bad: the realization that getting off the carriage now requires some planning and a pep talk. And the sore: muscles you didn’t even know you had will make their presence known. Stairs might become your new nemesis, but that’s just proof of progress and change.
The Addiction: One Session Is Never Enough
Once you get the hang of it, the Reformer becomes strangely addictive. You’ll start craving that full-body workout, the satisfying click of the springs, and the sheer joy of mastering a new move. You’ll even start evangelizing about the Reformer to your friends, convincing them to join you in this Pilates paradise.
Conclusion: Embrace the Reform
So, if you haven’t yet met the Reformer, it’s high time you did. It’s the frenemy that challenges you, supports you, and ultimately transforms you. Embrace the awkward beginnings, celebrate the small victories, and enjoy the ride - because with the Reformer, it’s one heck of a journey.
I'm really not exaggerating when I say that including the Reformer in my practice has upleveled my own understanding of how my body wants to move, vs how it should move (even if reluctantly), for optimal wellness and if you decide to spend some time with the Reformer as well, I'm convinced you will be delighted about your self-discoveries too. It can feel overwhelming because it's so different, but stay curious and laugh off any grunts and groans! Whether you have a brief encounter with the Reformer or a long lasting love-and possibly-hate relationship, it'll certainly give you a spring in your practice and maybe even your step!
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