Generally, the primary question from guests attending Pilates classes revolves around the Pilates equipment. Questions such as what will be used during the class, what should be known about them, and what functions they serve often arise.
I have decided to provide a brief summary of essential information about Pilates machines. This way upon arriving for the class, you will already have an idea and can eagerly anticipate using them. A characteristic common feature of these machines is that they were all designed by Joseph Pilates.
Half Cadillac
The Half Cadillac has its roots in Joseph Pilates' efforts to rehabilitate and strengthen immobile, injured soldiers during World War I. Serving as an orderly on the Isle of Man, Pilates improvised with available objects like oar handles, ropes, and old bed springs.
This improvisation led to the creation of the precursor to the Cadillac – a hospital bed equipped with springs. According to J. Pilates, exercising on this machine felt as luxurious as travelling in a Cadillac.
Exercises on the Half Cadillac can be performed in various positions: lying on the back, stomach, hands and knees, sitting, and standing. This multi-functional equipment helps in the development of strength, flexibility, and balance.
Reformer
Developed by Joseph Pilates following the popularity of the Cadillac, the Reformer stands out as one of the most versatile Pilates apparatuses, alongside floor exercises. It's as if every fitness tool has been condensed into one. The carriage, situated within a metal or wooden frame, moves smoothly on wheels. Various resistance levels are provided by different strength springs employed during exercises. It allows for exercises in various positions: lying on the back, stomach, hands and knees, sitting, and standing, promoting strength, flexibility, and balance.
Its suitability for rehabilitation lies in the fact that during movement on the Reformer, lying down, anti-gravity muscles disengage, gently and harmoniously engaging joints and muscles. The Reformer alternates between eccentric and concentric movements, leading to well-defined muscles. It sometimes simplifies, sometimes complicates the floor repertoire.
According to Joseph Pilates, regular use of the Reformer achieves exactly what its name suggests – it reforms the body..
Spine Corrector
In 1945, dissatisfied with people's posture, Joseph Pilates invented tools to address new postural problems encountered by his clients. He believed that not only his students but also future generations would benefit from them.
The first such device was allegedly made from two halves of a beer barrel covered with soft foam. He ingeniously utilized the metal hoop removed from the barrel, which became the Pilates Circle (also referred to as the "Magic Circle" in some contexts), still widely used in various sports today.
Exercising on this device elongates the spine, strengthens its natural curves and we can breathe more freely. It contributes to the development of strength, flexibility, and balance. Moreover, the entire floor repertoire can be performed on it.
