I don’t know about anyone else, but I think the Pilates Reformer resembles a torture apparatus, with its cables, bars, straps, pulleys, strings and its sliding platform. So, when IndyHub’s very own Molly Chavers, an instructor with Invoke, invited me to try it out as part of my weekly challenge, I was feeling a bit unnerved. As I headed into the room with the Reformer and saw Molly smiling and cheerful, I figured it couldn’t be that bad. Fortunately, I was right.
The contraption can look daunting, but Molly was nice enough to explain the sophisticated system of springs, straps and pulleys before we started. It’s actually a surprisingly versatile apparatus, and I really enjoyed the workout (her great selection of music also was helpful in making it a fun session).
Basically, the machine is this gliding platform that I sat on, kneeled on and laid on (front, back and on my side). The springs provide resistance from the machine, while the rest of the resistance comes from your own body weight. The springs hook on the spring bar, and different springs can be unhooked to increase or decrease the resistance. As Molly hooked and unhooked the springs, I went along for the ride.
Molly had me pushing, pulling and using the bar to work my arms, legs and my core. As she demonstrated some of the moves I realized how much more controlled and smooth her movements were compared to mine. She definitely is more elegant and refined, which is something a beginner like me can only hope comes with more practice and experience.
I’m becoming a fan of Pilates, especially with its promise of core strength, flexibility and lean muscle tone. Now I just have to figure out how to fit it into my triathlon training. Any suggestions?
p.s. If you work out on the Reformer with Molly ask her about the “rainbow” move. It’s the one move I just couldn’t get, even after several failed attempts. It was fun trying though!
Kelly Young owns Baise Communications, with a focus on doing great work for great organizations. With FitCity as one of her clients, she’s committed to moving more and eating healthier (or at least giving it her best shot). Kelly has completed three Olympic Triathlons and several Century rides with Team in Training. She lives in New Palestine with her husband and two young kids, all of whom find ways to support her crazy fitness phases. Contact Kelly at kelly@baisecommunications.com.
