Learn about Pilates

For anyone with even a remote interest in Pilates, the equipment used for training is extremely interesting. With exciting names like the Reformer and the Cadillac, how could one not be interested? While there are literally dozens of individual pieces of equipment and props for use in Pilates training, we will be focusing on two of the more popular ones.

The idea for the Reformer was born when the founder of the Pilates system, Joseph Pilates, was interned in England during the First World War. He spent much of his internment training investigators from Scotland Yard in the Pilates method, and working to find ways to help rehabilitate bed-ridden patients suffering from the 1918 influenza epidemic. The first prototype was actually created using bits and pieces of old hospital beds.

The Reformer is comprised of a series of springs attached to a sliding platform supported by a frame. In some ways, it is very similar to rowing machine. The platform can be moved in two ways; by pulling on the pulleys, or by pushing off of the foot bar. It can be challenging for some people to get used to the sensation of moving the platform and maintaining balance at the same time. There are dozen of exercises that can be performed on this piece of equipment, but please consult a professional instructor before attempting these exercises on your own.

The Cadillac is another popular piece of Pilates training equipment. It has been said that the Cadillac resembles some form of medieval torture equipment, and has earned the nickname of “the rack”. Be not afraid. The Cadillac is one of the most ingenious and effective types of fitness equipment ever designed. It has a platform and posts on each of the four corners. It is not unlike a bed, in some ways. The corner posts support various levers and pulleys, which provide resistance during your workout.

Joseph Pilates, and his legion of protgs, have designed well over 80 individual exercises that can be performed on the Cadillac. Each group of exercises is designed to focus on a specific group of muscles. Many of the exercises have a particular focus on developing core strength in the abdominal region. As with other types of exercise equipment, do not attempt to use the Cadillac without a proper demonstration from a certified professional.


About the author:

Natalie Brown is a certified Pilates instructor from Canada. When she is not consumed with her busy class schedule, she writes for http://www.pilatesinsight.com – a site that offers information about pilates equipment like the Reformer and the Cadillac.

Written By: Natalie Brown

Body Harmonics Pilates, located in Toronto, Canada is an internationally recognized leader in Pilates training and instruction. It was founded in 1996 by Margot McKinnon, a well respected leader in the Canadian health and fitness industry. What distinguishes Body Harmonics from other studios is that it also functions as a Pilates teacher training facility. The primary motivation behind the establishment of Body Harmonics was to make Pilates accessible to everyone, and to train the next generation of teachers in the best practices available.

Body Harmonics has three main areas of specialization; Pilates for general health and wellbeing, post-rehabilitative exercise, and performance enhancements for athletes and dancers. They offer over 40 courses to new and experienced students and teachers alike. They offer three levels of Mat training, and extensive workshops dedicated to individual pieces of equipment such as the Reformer and the Cadillac. Body Harmonics has trained Pilates instructors from all around the world, and remains one the best facilities of its kind in Canada and beyond.

Studio director, Margot McKinnon, has a long and proven track record as an educator and a top-notch Pilates instructor. She has worked as a Pilates instructor since 1994, when she earned her first certification. She became a Master Teacher Trainer for The Pilates Method in 1996, and shortly thereafter launched her company. She has had the benefit of training and developing relationships with some the best and brightest mind in her industry. Margot is renowned for her inspiring teaching style, and her intricate knowledge of the theory behind the practice of Pilates.

Aside from the standard courses offered at Body Harmonics, there are also a number of specialized courses designed for people that might not associate Pilates training with other sports. Body Harmonics offers courses of particular interest to golfers, skiers, runners and rowers. They also offer courses for other health care practitioners, such as physiotherapists, osteopaths, and chiropractors. Regardless of your area of specialization, there is no doubt that you can benefit from the mind/body connection you will make at Body Harmonics. If you are serious about Pilates and you are considering professional certification, take some time to learn more about Body Harmonics.


About the author:

Natalie Brown is a history student and Pilates enthusiast. When she is not consumed with her studies, she likes to stretch and stuff. She also writes for pilatesinsight.com – a site that offers information about Pilates, Pilates Equipment, Pilates Chairs and more.

Written By: Natalie Brown