REPs Magazine Fitness Matters Issue 9 | Page 29

rom increased flexibility to strength and conditioning, the list of health benefits of a regular Reformer Pilates practice is far-reaching. F It’s also a type of exercise that can be good for anyone, from prenatal women to elite athletes, any age, male or female. So why isn’t everyone doing it? And better yet, why isn’t every fitness professional jumping at the chance to instruct it? Perhaps it is because Reformer Pilates isn’t new. In fact, it’s been around since the late 1920s. Originally created for rehabilitation, early forms of Reformer Pilates were used to treat soldiers returning from war or dancers to help them strengthen their bodies and ease aches and pains. And since then, it’s stood the test of time. “ It is used for resistance and can actually support certain movements.” Reformer Pilates is most certainly not an exercise fad. It’s a well-rounded form of exercise that can improve posture, muscle tone, balance, joint mobility, whole body strength and, most importantly, it can help stave off injury. @REPsUK FM 29