More people are switching from lifting weights to exercising with specialized equipment. Pilates has grown in popularity and is gaining more followers. One thing people love about it is its similarity with yoga, combining movement with mindfulness. If you’ve considered trying this type of workout, here are six kinds of Pilates to consider exploring.
1. Cadillac Pilates
This type of Pilates uses equipment resembling a bed frame, with a raised platform and four posts. It incorporates a mat, trapeze, strings, and bars to support diverse poses within the frame.
Cadillac Pilates is ideal for those who want to improve their flexibility. Some exercises include rolling your back in and out using the spring, side situps, and splits on top bars. Try this workout to increase or maintain your range of motion.
2. Tower Pilates
Tower Pilates uses a vertical frame designed to support muscle-strengthening routines. The top is often attached with arm and leg springs and push-through and roll-down bars, which provide resistance for execution during a flow.
Tower Pilates can help you build strength, increase bone density, and improve your balance.
3. Barrel Pilates
Barrel Pilates uses a ladder barrel, a specialized tool that connects a padded half-cylinder top to a vertical ladder with rungs. This unique shape allows users to perform movements, challenging postural muscles through deeper stretches.
About 47% of Americans who work a desk job are concerned about poor posture and its impact on health. Barrel Pilates is the best workout for correcting posture problems. A typical class includes supine stretches, side situps, and backbends.
4. Chair Pilates
Chair Pilates uses a tool that looks like a typical, padded wooden chair but with an added pedal connected by springs to the body. These stretchable wires provide tension for low-impact core, balance, and functional strength movements and can be adjusted based on the user’s ability.
This type of Pilates mainly targets the lower body, especially the feet, to support stability while standing or sitting. Routines include plenty of footwork, like single-leg pull-ups and presses using the toes and heels. Chair Pilates is beneficial for older people as it helps reduce falls and increases the range of motion of their feet.
5. Reformer Pilates
Reformer Pilates equipment consists of a rectangular frame with a stable, movable base that slides back and forth within the frame. It also has adjustable strings that provide resistance for a more challenging move. If you try it, be ready to engage your core and feel the burn. Your routines include leg circles, knee stretches, and side lifts.
Reformer Pilates is all about concentration, control, and breathing, which are the elements of mindfulness and movement. It’s great for both newbies and high-level athletes. Beginners can start with gentle poses and increase their strength through regular classes until they can do advanced movements.
6. Lagree Pilates
Lagree Pilates uses sophisticated equipment called a Megaformer, which features a rectangular steel frame. The surface is slippery, so wear grippy socks to prevent slipping and protect yourself from injuries. The Megaformer also has a sliding base to allow users to do various combinations of stretches and moves.
Lagree classes include routines consisting of high-intensity movements that engage the entire body. If you’re trying it out for the first time, expect it to be a little more challenging than typical Pilates. However, you can always ask the instructor to teach you modified poses that are safer and suitable at your current level.
Explore Pilates for Your Health
Pilates is a fun, social workout for those looking to switch up their movement activity. If you’re bored with your usual gym routines, why not try these six types of Pilates? They will help you build strength, mobility, and flexibility. More importantly, they combine fitness with mindfulness, so you’re gaining all types of health benefits with a single session.
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