Summer's hottest fitness trend: An inexpensive substitute for reformer Pilates that offers a complete workout
Pilates bars and reformer machines are two popular tools used for Pilates workouts, each offering unique benefits and drawbacks.
Pilates bars, portable fitness accessories, are designed to replicate movements typically performed on a reformer machine. They feature a bar with two straps on either side, mimicking the straps found on a reformer. By adding an element of resistance into workouts, Pilates bars can improve strength, flexibility, and balance. They can be used to perform chest presses and add extra resistance to leg lifts, and can even mimic many reformer moves at home. When shopping for a Pilates bar, choose bars with adjustable resistance bands and additional attachments to perform a wider range of exercises.
On the other hand, reformer machines are sophisticated apparatuses that use adjustable spring tension to create variable resistance. This targets core strength, flexibility, and precise muscle control with a wide range of full-body exercises. The Reformer’s structure (carriage, springs, footbar, straps) allows for highly controlled, progressive workouts suited for mastering Pilates techniques and developing strength and coordination comprehensively.
In summary, Pilates bars offer a convenient supplement or alternative when space, cost, or access to reformers is limited. They are less effective than reformer machines for Pilates workouts in terms of providing dynamic resistance, versatility, and exercise complexity. However, they are highly portable and more affordable, making them a good option for on-the-go or beginner Pilates practitioners.
| Feature | Pilates Bar | Pilates Reformer Machine | |------------------------|----------------------------------|-------------------------------------| | Resistance Type | Elastic bands or fixed tension | Adjustable spring-based resistance | | Exercise Variety | Limited to certain movements | Large spectrum, including complex full-body exercises | | Portability | Highly portable | Bulky, requires dedicated space | | Suitability | Good for on-the-go or beginner | Ideal for in-depth Pilates training and precise muscle engagement | | Cost | Generally affordable | Typically expensive |
For comprehensive Pilates training emphasizing core strength, flexibility, and posture, reformer machines are more effective. Pilates bars, however, can help build strength and improve posture, making them a valuable addition to any fitness routine.
Here are a few Pilates bar workouts to get you started:
- Pilates by Kristina offers a 25-minute bar routine that focuses on working the arms and legs, suitable for beginners or those starting to add resistance to their workouts.
- Another Pilates bar workout, from fitness coach Move With Margie, incorporates six reformer-style Pilates movements and works the entire body.
- This beginner-friendly Pilates bar workout lasts for 15 minutes and focuses on building full-body strength, improving posture, and enhancing flexibility.
Remember, when buying a Pilates bar, experts suggest looking for bars made from sturdy materials like aluminum, lightweight for easy use, storage, and travel, with adjustable resistance bands and additional attachments for a wider range of exercises, and non-slip grips for comfort.
In conclusion, whether you choose a Pilates bar or a reformer machine, both tools can contribute to a well-rounded Pilates practice. The key is to find the one that best suits your needs, budget, and lifestyle.
[1] Pilates Foundation, (2021). Pilates Reformer [5] Balanced Body, (2021). Pilates Barrels
- While Pilates bars offer a convenient and affordable alternative for those who lack space or resources to use a reformer machine, the science of Pilates suggests that reformer machines provide more dynamic resistance, versatility, and exercise complexity for comprehensive Pilates training.
- Keeping in mind that Pilates bars can help improve flexibility, fitness, and balance with resistance band exercises, any health-and-wellness enthusiast can incorporate Pilates bar workouts into their fitness-and-exercise regimen, whether as a supplement to in-studio reformer training or as a standalone workout.
- According to experts, when searching for a Pilates bar, one should consider features like adjustable resistance bands, additional attachments for more exercise variety, non-slip grips for comfort, and materials like aluminum for durability, portability, and ease of storage.
