The world's first reformer to have a moveable foot-bar, was the remarkable Allegro 2. The foot-bar can be locked in multiple positions along the carriage, and this allows almost limitless exercise possibilities. The Allegro 2 offers greater potential than any other reformer. Hundreds of exercises can be performed at various levels of difficulty, and any part of the body can be targeted. The results can be, and often are, life changing.
Set at the height of a low bed, the reformer has a carriage that moves horizontally on a track. Springs that are attached between the carriage and the frame provide resistance or assistance. Beginners usually start by lying on the carriage with the feet placed on the foot-bar. Pushing against the foot-bar initiates resistance at the beginning of an exercise. As the carriage moves out, the spring tension tries to return the carriage, and the user then must also apply resistance. Rope attachments and straps can also allow the hands or feet to initiate resistance. The moveable foot-bar on the Allegro 2 was a world's first and it is not available on any other reformer.
The lesser known but equally effective CoreAlign is gaining a worldwide reputation with Pilates rehabilitation. Many of the exercises are performed in an upright position which often results in rapid improvements in balance and stability.
Each CoreAlign is comprised of a ladder system that is used in conjunction with a floor unit, which includes 2 independent moving carts. These offer smooth resistance, or assistance, in opposite directions. The resistance can be easily changed to suit all fitness levels including complete beginners. Most of the CoreAlign exercises cannot be replicated on any other exercise apparatus.
The spring assisted exercises performed on the Wall Tower can greatly help with articulation of the spine. This can promote better spinal mobility and flexibility and can also improve posture. Multiple spring positions and spring tensions result in a vast range of rehabilitation exercises.
The Chair exercises deliver a functional workout that combines coordination, balance and strength. This versatile piece of Pilates equipment is easy to use and there are a wide range of resistance choices. For beginners most exercises are performed sitting, with the feet on the upholstered pedal. If required, the pedal can be split and then used for single leg resistance. The more challenging exercises can be performed sitting or lying on the padded seating area. The Chair was originally designed by Joseph Pilates as a compact exercise system for New York apartments.
The Spine Corrector is used almost exclusively to enhance posture and flexibility.
The Jump Board fits onto the reformer at the foot end. Beginners would lie on the reformer carriage and perform a series of 'horizontal jumps' with controlled resistance for low impact landings. These can be performed on either single or both feet.
Wobble Boards are used to improve balance and joint flexibility in the lower body.