REFORMER SAFETY USAGE
Safety and the Universal Reformer
The Pilates Universal Reformer, is designed to teach the exercise repertoire of Joseph H. Pilates. All utilization must take the unique
functionality and design of the Reformer into account as well as the skill, expertise and education of the instructor. Exercises outside
of the intended use may cause damage to the equipment and may be dangerous to the client. Furthermore, exercises improperly
taught may result in loss of balance, coordination and control of the client on the moving carriage and may lead to injury. The Pilates
Universal Reformer is only to be used under the supervision of a Pilates instructor specifi cally trained in the safe use of the Reformer.
Balance. Coordination. Control.
One of the unique features of the Reformer is the utilization of
springs as resistance against the travel and movement of the
Reformer carriage. In order for exercises to be performed safely,
three important conditions must always be met.
User must always maintain and be aware of balance when on
•
the Reformer.
User movements must coordinate with the speed, timing and
•
variability of the spring resistance.
!
!
User movements must be controlled and organized.
•
There should NEVER be slack in the ropes or bouncing of the
springs.
User should move within their ability, strength, and fl exibility.
•
Control Front Advanced Exercise. Reformer movements are complex and
client must always move with Balance, Control and Coordination.
Finding an Instructor
Working with a qualifi ed Pilates instructor who is certifi ed to
train on the Pilates Reformer is an important component to learn
how to use the Reformer safely and effectively. There are many
Pilates education programs and it is important for users to be
discerning. Look for instructors who have taken a certifi cation
with no less than 200 hours on the Reformer.
14
!
!
Spring Resistance
For many new to Pilates anticipation of the spring resistance
needs to be trained and understood for safe utilization of the
Reformer. In addition, understanding relative spring weights,
how to change springs safely, how to check the springs for wear
and how to move the spring bar are an integral part of spring
safety specifi c to exercise transitions and set up. Ensuring that
the springs are set up appropriately for the specifi c client, are
set on the hooks to prevent detachment of the spring, and are
understood in relationship to the movement of the carriage will
decrease potential incidents and increase success for both client
and instructor.
Check the springs regularly for wear and replace as needed. We
recommend replacing springs every 2 years - 1 year for group
fi tness classes.
Check springs regularly for wear and replace as needed. We recommend
replacing springs every
Inexperienced Clients
Pilates exercises are integrated, complex motor learning exercises.
Practice and experience are necessary to progress. Instructors,
please be cautious with how quickly you progress your clients, if
they can maintain balance, coordination and control then adding
additional complexity is possible. Clients, please be patient
with the learning process and understand the value of balance,
coordination and control.
2 years - 1 year for group fi tness classes.