Reformer training, also known as resistance training, has been rapidly growing in popularity for a few years now. Many celebrities, such as Victoria Secret models like Georgia Fowler and Irina Shayk, Kim Kardashian, and Madonna, swear by reformer pilates. But what does reformer training actually entail, and what are its effects on your body and mind?
Sabrina Albert is a fitness entrepreneur and founder of BodyBase, a high-end boutique fitness chain, and the Baseline Ace reformer, based on reformer and resistance training. She is more than happy to share her knowledge on this topic.
What is reformer training?
The word “reformer” contains the term “re-formen,” which means reshaping the body. You perform exercises on a machine called a reformer. The moving platform, the resistance from your own body weight, and additional resistance from the machine allow you to effectively train almost your entire body with each exercise.
Training on a reformer enhances your coordination, strength, mobility, flexibility, energy, endurance, and balance. The workout focuses on deep muscles and helps shape your body. During the training, you specifically target certain muscle groups. The machine improves your posture, supports recovery after injuries, helps reduce stress, and prevents injuries.
Five key reasons why reformer training is beneficial for your body
- Muscle strengthening: Due to the constant tension on the muscles during exercises using resistance springs, reformer training helps build strength and muscle endurance.
- Improved posture and stability: By working on core muscles and stabilizers, reformer training contributes to improving your overall body posture, stability, and balance.
- Flexibility and mobility: The exercises on the reformer also promote flexibility and mobility as they guide your body through various ranges of motion.
- Injury reduction: Stronger muscles and better posture can help reduce the risk of injuries, especially in the back and joints.
- Coordination and balance: The exercises on the reformer require coordination and balance as they often activate multiple muscle groups simultaneously. This contributes to improving neuromuscular coordination and promoting better balance and stability.
In addition, reformer training also has effects on your mental well-being. It emphasizes the mind-body connection, where you are aware of your movements, breathing, and create a sense of well-being. Reformer pilates and mindfulness have a strong connection, and this combination can have benefits for both physical and mental health.
It promotes:
- Body awareness: During reformer training, the focus is on consciously feeling and experiencing each movement and muscle activity. This promotes deeper body awareness and helps bring your conscious attention to the present moment.
- Breathing and relaxation: Reformer training pays a lot of attention to breathing techniques that increase oxygen flow to the muscles and promote relaxation. This can help calm the mind and relax the body, creating space for mindfulness.
- Concentration and focus: Reformer sessions require concentration and focus to perform the exercises correctly. By directing your attention to the execution of each movement, you bring your mind to the present moment and reduce distracting thoughts.
- Stress reduction: The combination of mindfulness and the physical benefits of reformer training can help reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being. Being consciously aware of the present moment and letting go of distracting thoughts can help calm the mind.
Reformer training VS strength training
I often get asked, “Should I train with weights or do strength training?” Resistance training and strength training are two terms that are often used interchangeably and, in many ways, mean the same thing. Both refer to the use of external resistance, such as dumbbells, machines, resistance bands, or body weight, to train the muscles. It is important to understand that resistance training and strength training are not necessarily better or worse. The choice between the two depends on individual preferences and goals. In strength training, fixed weights like barbells or weight plates are used to provide resistance during exercises. It can focus on specific muscle groups to build strength and muscle mass. It can help develop both strength and muscle growth.
On the other hand, resistance training encompasses various forms of muscle-challenging exercises, including weight training, resistance bands, body weight exercises, and reformer pilates. Resistance training can target different aspects such as strength, muscle endurance, stability, or flexibility, depending on the training method. Whether you choose weight training or another form of resistance training, both can be effective in improving muscle strength, muscle mass, and enhancing overall fitness.
All-in-one Reformer BaseLine Ace
Don’t want to choose between building muscle and practising pilates or yoga? You’re in luck! Sabrina has created the BodyBase Ace: an all-in-one Reformer machine that incorporates resistance training with reformer pilates, enabling you to do both types of workouts at home!
This machine is specifically designed for home use and is also a Dutch product. In addition to the health benefits, the BaseLine Ace also has all the advantages for your home. It is compact, easy to store, and very chic, so the Ace fits into any interior.
It takes your workout routine to the next level! Knowing more? Explore the Ace machine !