Pilates reformer exercises are a great way to tone up and strengthen all of the muscles in the body.  They can be practiced in the home or as part of a Pilates group.  When attending a class you will probably come across a Pilates reformer machine.  These machines are suitable for doing all the exercises that can be performed on a Pilates mat.

Pilates is a form of exercise that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.  It is suitable for all levels of fitness from beginner to experienced student.  Pilates is an excellent way to improve the overall strength and flexibility of the body.  It is especially useful for toning up the abdomen, hips and gluteal muscles.

Using Pilates as a method of exercising during pregnancy is something which is enjoyed by many expectant mothers.  These women find that working on improving the strength of muscles of the abdominal and lower back regions can provide them with extra support during their pregnancy and also during their labour period.  Pilates is also a wonderful exercise for helping new mums to regain their body shape quickly after they have had their baby.

Since the exercises work on strengthening muscles and helping the body to become more flexible, it can be useful in treating some injuries.  Pilates is popular as a method of treating people who suffer from orthopaedic problems.

The Pilates reformer machine is a metal or wooden frame construction that has a cushioned carriage.  The carriage can slide backwards and forwards on runners within the frame.  At one end of the frame is an adjustable footbar.  The machines resistance is controlled using the adjustable springs on the machine.  The carriage can be slid by either using the straps that are attached to the machine or by using the footbar. 

There are many ways that the reformer can be used to stretch various parts of the body.  These include lying down, sitting, kneeling and standing.  This allows all areas of the body to be given a complete workout.

Aero Pilates machines are basically the same as a reformer machine but can offer an elevated workout.  This type of machine is fitted with a rebounder that is suitable for giving the legs a good workout and strengthening the muscles in the upper and lower legs.

There are various accessories available that can be added to the machines to increase the level of exercise as well as adding to the enjoyment the person gets from the workout.  Gondola poles are useful for helping with balance while standing on the machine.

 A sitting box can be placed on the reformer machine to increase the intensity of many exercises.  The sitting box can be used to increase the strength of muscles especially those of the abdominal areas.  It is also ideal for getting better results from stretching exercises.

Both the reformer and the aero Pilates machines are suitable for Pilates reformer exercises.  These exercises offer low impact cardiovascular activity for strengthening muscles, relieving stress and improving overall health.