Unlocking the transformative power of Reformer Pilates: dispelling myths and revealing its dynamic benefits for all
Are you guilty of thinking that Reformer Pilates is just for people who don’t like the gym or cardio, or that it’s the same as Yoga, or even perhaps that it’s only good for rehab? You’re not alone — and we need to put you back on the right track.
Many people hold these types of reformer Pilates misconceptions, so in this blog we’ll debunk some of the most common myths, while highlighting how Reformer Pilates can benefit overall health and fitness, and enhance sports performance for people of all ages and fitness levels.
“PILATES AND YOGA ARE THE SAME THING”
Since traditional Pilates and Yoga are both forms of low-impact exercise performed on a mat, we get the confusion. There are many pros and cons to both mat Pilates and Yoga, some of which are shared, but when it comes to reformer Pilates and Yoga, here are 3 key differences:
While Yoga is done with only your bodyweight, KX Pilates workouts leverage the pulleys and springs of our exclusive reformer bed, the KXFormer, as well as a variety of pilates props, to add resistance and build strength.
Reformer Pilates classes can be more physically demanding than most Yoga classes. The high intensity comes from resistance training as well as dynamic movements such as flying splits and crouching tigers; this results in greater cardiovascular health benefits and higher calorie burn for fat loss.
Finally, at its roots, Yoga is a spiritual practice intended to achieve harmony between mind, body and spirit. Meanwhile, Pilates is first and foremost a system of exercise designed to improve physical strength, strengthening your intrinsic muscles, flexibility and posture. The reduction in stress levels and improvements in mood and motivation are benefits of staying active and maintaining a regular pilates practice.
2. “REFORMER PILATES IS JUST STRETCHING”
While improved flexibility is a significant benefit of Reformer Pilates, there’s much more to it! At our studio, Reformer Pilates classes are dynamic full-body 45 minute workouts, tailored to build overall muscle strength and tone, so that:
You improve balance and stability to become more resilient to injury
You improve your posture to reduce strain on your necks and backs
You are more able to confidently and safely perform day-to-day activities
You enhance your athletic performance
In addition, while being flexible is essential for overall health, it’s also crucial that you are mobile for joint health, injury prevention and athletic performance; so that you can control your body through its full range of motion.
3. “PILATES IS ONLY FOR REHAB; IT’S NOT A REAL WORKOUT”
Simone Biles, David Beckham, LeBron James and Serena Williams would all disagree with this Pilates myth!
Because Reformer Pilates is a low-impact form of exercise where the loading on joints is minimal and can be managed, it is indeed a safe and effective way to rehabilitate injuries. At the same time, the improvements in balance, stability and strength help prevent new injuries.
Reformer Pilates is an excellent workout for people of all ages and fitness levels, including those looking to improve their athletic performance. The focus of Pilates on building core strength and body control can result in better balance and agility, more efficient movement and quicker reaction times on the field or court.
4. “REFORMER PILATES IS ONLY FOR WOMEN”
This is a very common myth, however reformer Pilates is a popular exercise method that is quickly being adopted by many professional sports clubs and male sports teams, such as the AFL, to compliment other training and to prevent injury.
There are many men who recognise how reformer Pilates can positively impact their sports performance, overall athleticism, injury prevention and mental health through: targeting all muscle groups, including some which may be missed by traditional methods of training, to help correct imbalances to rehabilitate existing injuries and prevent new ones; building core strength that enhances athletic performance through improved balance, stability and agility; the focus on controlled breathing which delivers positive mental health benefits, reducing everyday stress levels.
Did you know that the founder of reformer Pilates was a man? Joseph Pilates was a gymnast and boxer who developed the method during World War I to keep himself and those around him active at an internment camp. They used the mattress springs to create resistance exercises; that is how reformer Pilates began!
Dispelling the myths surrounding Reformer Pilates is a journey toward unlocking its transformative potential for individuals of all backgrounds. Beyond misconceptions linking it to Yoga or categorising it as mere stretching, Reformer Pilates stands out as a dynamic force, utilising resistance and dynamic movements for unparalleled benefits in muscle strength, balance, and overall well-being. Contrary to the belief that it’s exclusive to rehabilitation, athletes like Simone Biles and LeBron James attest to its ability to enhance performance. Let us embrace Reformer Pilates as Joseph Pilates’ enduring legacy—a method born from resilience, transcending stereotypes, and shaping a healthier, more agile future for all.
Original post – KX Pilates.