The Anatomy of A Pilates Reformer

As you may be aware, we are delighted to be starting Reformer Pilates here at goPhysio in Chandlers Ford.

Having offered mat based Pilates at goPhysio since 2008, alongside the extra space and growing team, expanding into Reformer Pilates was the next step.

Many of you will not be at all familiar with the Reformer equipment, so we thought we’d share a little overview of the key components that make up The Reformer.

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  Straps, shoulder and head rest     
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 The reformer 
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Springs
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 Box and Springs 
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Reformer from foot bar end   
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Ropes and pulleys
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 Foot bar, box and standing platform  
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Head rest    
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Head and shoulder rests

THE CARRIAGE is a flat, lightly cushioned bed section, which you lie, kneel, sit, lunge or stand on. This platform smoothly glides up and down the rails. As the carriage moves as part of your Pilates exercises, you will need to engage and work key muscles in a controlled and symmetrical way.

THE FOOT BAR is used to rest your hands or feet against to stabilise you as you move.

THE SPRINGS provide a variable, dynamic resistance to your Pilates exercises. They demand control throughout your full range of movement, which adds a whole new dimension to Pilates. The different colours represent different resistance (from very light and easy to heavy and more challenging!).

ROPES & PULLEYS are used as an alternative to the static foot bar. Hands or feet can be placed inside the loops or handles, and used to work in multiple directions. This further challenges stability and balance.

HEAD REST is an adjustable section to rest your head whilst you are lying on the Reformer bed.

SHOULDER RESTS are used when lying down, to block your shoulders and assist with moving the carriage during exercises as your shoulders press against the rests. They can also be used as hand holds for different exercises.

STANDING PLATFORM at the foot bar end of the Reformer, is a non slip surface that you can place a foot on for doing certain exercises (the foot bar is lowered out of the way for these exercises). The other foot will be placed on the moving carriage.

BOX is placed on the carriage for variety of exercises. It can be great for those who are a little less flexible or to help make some exercises more comfortable.


For anyone who starts Reformer Pilates with us here at goPhysio, you will have a comprehensive introductory session, where one of our Reformer Instructors will introduce you to the Reformer and go through the equipment, how it works and make sure you are confident and comfortable before you start!

The great thing about the Reformer is that although it may look a little daunting, it can actually make Pilates easier, as your movements and exercises can be assisted, supported and facilitated through the Reformer bed, springs and pulleys. At the other end of the scale, the Reformer can take your Pilates to another level by challenging you too – so it’s great for all abilities!

Reviews

What They Say​

Antonia Perez
Antonia Perez
2023-11-25
We got an appointment promptly, the appointment went smoothly. Very nice physios. 👌
Fran Helen
Fran Helen
2023-11-06
Really knowledgeable and supportive, with clear advice to help. I feel so reassured after this appointment, highly recommended, they really listened to me. Thank you.
Brenda Hinnell
Brenda Hinnell
2023-10-27
First visit and in urgent need of physio as really suffering from not being able to run. Lottie was very patient and understanding with a lovely manner. She worked wonders and I am looking forward to my next visit.
James Grierson
James Grierson
2023-10-21
Great first appointment, really listened to my problems annd thorough anssessment and have come up with a clear rehab plan to get me back on track.
Nuisha Russo
Nuisha Russo
2023-10-21
I had a really good visit to GoPhysio. I have had sciatica for two months and it wasn't showing any signs of improvement. Sophie gave me a thorough assessment and then provided acupuncture and ultra sound. After one visit my sciatica has almost gone. I am really pleased.
kay luffman
kay luffman
2023-10-08
Everyone at go physio is so helpful & friendly. I have been receiving treatment for golfers elbow from Hannah Gelder, and couldn’t be happier, I wish I had gone earlier! She explains everything well, and guides you through exercises etc. very amiable and makes you feel at ease. Highly recommend
Chris Kitchen
Chris Kitchen
2023-10-07
They are a great friendly team who always manage to sort my sports injuries out. Can recommend them highly
Mark Dewey
Mark Dewey
2023-10-05
Go Physio definitely the place to go, came away feeling better and reassured and with a plan going forward.
Christine Raw
Christine Raw
2023-10-05
Very professional service and excellent treatment. Listened and gave good advice.
Kay Horton
Kay Horton
2023-10-05
I have been attending goPhysio for about two years. As a company they are very professional and provide a very good level of service to include efficiency and courtesy and are always consistent in their approach. This very much includes the admin /reception team whom are the first people you make contact with. My Physio has excellent knowledge and has assisted me with sound advice and ongoing exercise regimes which are achievable and realistic. This has supported me well in between appointments. Although always busy I am normally able to see Roz at a mutually convenient time. Thank you to all the team