Pilates exercise equipment - from resistance bands to reformers

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Pilates exercise equipment was first developed by a man named Joseph Pilates in the 1920s and has since grown into a world-wide phenomenon. Pilates exercises are an excellent way to strengthen and tone the body and with such a huge variety of work outs, from beginner to advanced, it is ideal for a home exercise regime. While it is not necessary to use Pilates exercise equipment they can be a good way of intensifying the workouts or simply provide support.

Pilates Resistance Bands

This is a stretchy band of latex attached to handles that can be used in a number of Pilates exercises for stretching and toning major muscle. They can be used for targeted upper and lower body workouts and are a fantastic, not to mention cheaper, substitute for the reformer. They are versatile, compact and economical. Prices range between £3 and £10.

Pilates arc barrel

An arc is basically a wooden arch with a padded exterior. They are used to support the back, shoulders, hips, thighs and neck in Pilates stretching exercises. Arc barrels are also known as West coast and East coast style barrels. The East coast style normally refers to a barrels that have a wooden frame with handles on either side. They cost between £50 and £150.

Pilates chair

The Pilates chair resembles a small stool but not all the exercises done using this piece of equipment involve sitting down. Over 75 different movements can be done using the Pilates chair. These exercises are designed to work the lower back, buttocks, abdominals and shoulders. Prices range from £100 to £800.

Pilates rings

The Pilates ring is also known by a number of other titles including the Power Circle, Fitness Circle, Magic Circle and the Pilates Circle. It is normally made from rubber and is particularly useful in toning the upper arms and both inner and outer thighs. They are available in a range of diameters and resistance levels to accommodate a variety of body sizes. Prices range from £20 to £40.

There are a number of different types of Pilates exercise equipment available that add intensity to the workout:

Reformer

Consists of a metal frame with a gliding platform. A system of springs, straps and pulleys are used to perform more than 100 different exercises and provides an excellent full-body workout. It uses variable resistance to strengthen and tone all major muscle groups. Studio quality reformers cost between £1,200 and £2,5000. Reformers for home use are cheaper but do not measure up to the more expensive models.

Trapeze Table or Cadillac

Also known as 'The Rack', this was the first piece of Pilates exercise equipment built by Joseph Pilates for bedridden patients in the infirmary where he worked. It looks similar to a simple four poster bed with a variety of springs, straps and levers attached to the frame. Over 80 exercises can be done on the Cadillac ranging from spring-assisted sit-ups to more challenging, almost gymnastic movements. It works the abdominal muscles, improves flexibility and strengthens the back muscles. Expect to pay from £1,500 to £2,200 for a good quality Cadillac.

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