Pilates Machines

The Pilates Machine originated in the following way. Joseph Pilates' early work was largely based on the rehabilitation of injured people. He experimented with exercise regimes by devising resistance systems through attaching springs to hospital beds. This would allow the patients to start toning their muscles even before they could get out of bed.

Thus springs quickly became the cornerstone of his method. He soon designed Pilates Machines that he originally called ‘the universal reformers' and essentially, were sliding beds that could be used with up to four springs depending on the exercise level and strength of the individual. On these types of machines, one can perform exercises without putting any weight on the joints, but can still enjoy all the benefits of doing exercises against resistance.

Pilates went on to develop several other types of machines for his New York studio and trademarked his equipment in 1945. These machines have been adapted and used around the world since.

After the passing of Joseph Pilates, his studio continued to thrive. The help of Mr. Gratz, a structural engineer, was sought to further develop and produce pilates machines to meet the demand. Mr. Gratz opted for an aluminum construction rather than the wood preferred by Joe. For years in New York the situation stayed the same.

The Gratz manufacturer could easily provide the small Pilates community with equipment. Then as the Pilates method became more and more popular, the demand for equipment grew. As the method's popularity boomed, it became clear that there was a demand for more equipment and fast. Many people became interested, and as these individuals studied Joseph Pilates' original designs (he left us blueprints; unfortunately, they're now only available to one individual), many of them voiced the need for change and improvement.

Leading Pilates Machines Available Today

Pilates-Gratz

There is the traditional Gratz equipment, closest to Joe's original designs. This manufacturer is still selling the full line of Joe's creations (including all the little gadgets). Although Joe Pilates originally constructed his Reformers in wood, Mr. Gratz has opted for aluminum with both its advantages and disadvantages. Check out Pilates-Gratz where you will find the high priced Classic Reformer.

Stott Pilates

Then there is Stott/Toronto (Canada). This manufacturer has, over the past years, gotten so creative that their equipment and teaching have strayed the farthest from Joe's original intentions. Just as costly, the machines offered at Stott Pilates are geared toward the serious pilates enthusiast. Their website also offers a handy directory for finding certified Pilates Instructors.

Peak Pilates

The most recent addition to the choices the consumer has today is Peak Pilates. Their strict adherence to the time-proven dimensional relationships of Joseph Pilates' original equipment is one reason why so many industry professionals prefer Peak Pilates equipment. Their website, PeakPilates.com, displays their product line thoroughly and also offers ongoing promotions as well as a free product catalogue upon request.

Balanced Body

Balanced Body (California) started out as "Current Concepts" and is now the largest manufacturer of Pilates equipment in the United States.. Claiming to be the world leader in Pilates equipment and information, Balanced Body offers both traditional and contemporary Pilates Machines and and overall wide range of selection.

Get a GREAT DEAL on a Pilates Machine

Buy an affordable Pilates Machine at Big Fitness.com one of the largest dealers of both new and reconditioned fitness equipment. All products have a 31 day money back guarantee and are backed by either the manufacturer's warranty or a Big Fitness warranty.

Simply through learning of Pilates exercises, your body will gradually change as a result. As the man himself, Joseph Pilates, once said "In 10 sessions you'll feel the difference, in 20 you'll see the difference, and in 30 you'll have a new body."

Below are a few helpful tips to remember when doing Pilates:

• Stay focused. Pilates is designed to combine your breathing rhythm with your body movements. Qualified instructors and professional instruction videos teach ways to keep your breathing working in conjunction with the exercises. You will also be taught to concentrate on your muscles and what you are doing. The goal of pilates is to unite your mind and body, which relieves stress and anxiety.

• Be comfortable. Wear comfortable clothes (as you would for yoga - shorts or tights and a T-shirt or tank top are good choices), and keep in mind that pilates is usually done without shoes. If you start feeling uncomfortable, strained, or experience pain, you should stop.

• Let it flow. When you perform your exercises, avoid quick, jerky movements. Every movement should be slow, but still strong and flexible. Joseph Pilates worked with dancers and designed his movements to flow like a dance.

If you please, don't leave out the heart. The nice thing about pilates is you don't have to break a sweat if you don't want to - but you can also work the exercises quickly (bearing in mind fluidity, of course!) to get your heart rate going. Or, because pilates is primarily about strength and flexibility, pair your pilates workout with a form of aerobic exercise like swimming or brisk walking.