Tidal Physio has added Reformers to the clinic and we're excited about it (can you see my smile??). Below you'll find some information about what the reformer is all about. If you have any questions, please feel free to call and discuss whether this form of exercise and rehab is right for you!
What is the Reformer?
The reformer is a machine that uses springs and cables to add resistance to traditional Pilates exercises. It also adds some creativity with exercise - offering modifications and support for exercises which might be too hard to do on the floor or with full body weight, as well as offer progressions to challenge the body further.
For example, if you find it difficult to do squats or lunges but need to strengthen your legs to improve your knee or hip pain, we can use the reformer to activate the same muscles you would use in a standing position but lying down instead, taking some of the pressure off the joints and getting the work back into the muscles.
If you are looking for more challenge to your typical exercise routine, you'll find that by adding the resistance and control needed to move against the springs and cables you will feel muscles you didn't know existed!
Reformer Pilates will help build strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, balance and the mind-body connection! The perfect addition to an exercise regime which will build resilience against injury and support you in your sports performance and day to day activities.
STRENGTH by adding resistance to push and pull against
MUSCULAR ENDURANCE by challenging you to hold positions against resistance and repeat movements over and over and over, building your resistance to fatigue (very important for injury prevention!)
FLEXIBILITY by getting you to move your body into positions outside of your normal day to day habits (also very important for injury prevention and rehabilitation)
BALANCE by asking you to control your body on a moving platform, while moving against springs - if you can gain control here, you can gain it in your day to day life.
MIND - BODY CONNECTION: pilates is all about conscious movement and awareness of your body. Taking this time for yourself, to breathe, move and focus on your wellbeing improves all aspects of your life - from a greater ability to handle day to day stress, to better sleeps and more energy!
The reformer requires skill and practice which can easily be developed with the right instruction and observation. This is why our classes are small, with only 4 reformers, so we can ensure appropriate form of each participant. This will maximize your experience and help you better reach your fitness goals.
Who can participate?
Our classes are for all fitness levels. If you have an acute injury you are dealing with we highly recommend you seek out an assessment and advice from a qualified health professional before starting the classes. It may also be recommended to have a few 1:1 sessions to progress to a level which might help you feel more comfortable participating in a class. We believe Pilates is good for every BODY and we encourage you to find out for yourself!
If you’re unsure whether you can participate give us a call and we’ll be happy to chat about it!
What Injuries can benefit from Reformer Pilates?
Conditions we can help treat using reformer pilates exercise (include but are not limited to):
Back injuries - subacute and chronic disc herniations and bulges, nerve root compression
Neck injuries - subacute nerve root compression, disc injuries
Shoulder injuries - bursitis, rotator cuff strains and tears, impingement
Hips- bursitis, gluteal tendinopathy and tears, tight hips
Hamstring strains and tears
Patellar tendinitis/tendinopathy
Achilles tendinitis/tendinopathy
Ankle sprains
Plantar fasciitis
…and many others, just ask us!
If you have any injuries, it is important to seek advise and clearance to participate from a qualified health professional prior to commencing classes.
To book in for a reformer class, click here
If you have any questions, call or email us to discuss further.
Disclaimer: All information provided by Tidal Physiotherapy can at no time substitute medical advice and individual assessment by a qualified medical professional. Tidal Physiotherapy recommends seeking professional advice before commencing any type of self-treatment, as the information provided is not intended to be relied on for medical diagnosis and treatment.
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