7 Expert Reasons Why Reformer Pilates is Recommended for Injury Rehab

Recovering from injury can be challenging, especially because it involves finding the right balance between healing and resting. While many injuries require a considerable amount of rest, you will, at some point, have to regain strength in the affected muscle or ligament.

Jumping back into your usual vigorous exercise regime isn’t always recommended. This is why medical experts often recommend the reformer Pilates Frankston locals rely on for moderate but effective exercise.

What is Reformer Pilates?

Never heard of reformer Pilates? Essentially this exercise encompasses all the principles of Pilates and is performed with a specialised Reformer machine. For the most part this machine is shaped like a bed and has a sliding carriage, tension springs, foot bar, ropes, handles, and pulleys.

All these components work together to create a unique range of workout movements. The ultimate goal of these workouts is to create balance as well as improve flexibility and muscle strength. Individual exercises can be adjusted to be low-intensive or more vigorous, depending on your unique needs.

Good Reason to Add the Reformer Pilates Machine to Your Workout

If your recovery requires focusing on core strength and flexibility without risking a fresh injury, it may be time to consider a few sessions on the Reformer Pilates. We’ve listed a few good reasons why this low-impact approach is beneficial to your overall recovery.

1.     Individual Exercises are Low-Impact

Reformer Pilates has been designed as a low-impact form of exercise. This means that movements are gentle on the joints which will then create little to no stress on the injured muscles or ligaments.

Since there’s no additional strain or increased pain on the affected area, it becomes easier to regain muscle strength. A few op advantages of low-impact injury include the following:

• Improved flexibility
• Reduced risk of further injury
• Increases balance
• Gentle on the joints  (making it ideal for people of all ages)
• Aids muscle strengthening
• Can be sustained for longer periods
• Makes it easier to regain mobility

2.     Allows for Isolated Muscle Activation

In some cases, you may want or need to exercise specific muscles without risking injury to the affected area. With the Reformer, you can target specific muscles without putting unnecessary strain and stress on the injured ligaments. This not only creates muscle balance but makes the injured muscle as strong as needed to avoid injury.

3.     Creates Guided Movements

An experienced Pilates instructor will use the Reformer to gently guide you through each movement. Controlled and precise movements ensure you get an effective workout without muscle injury. Your instructor will base the types and intensity of your workouts on what’s needed to encourage healing and strength.

4.     Enhances Core Strength

In regular Pilates, the crux of each exercise movement is designed to improve core strength and stability. When you have a strong core, you will also have improved posture which goes a long way toward reducing back and neck pain.

You will also have enhanced stability and balance, which makes it easy for you to regain your balance, especially if you’re dealing with an injured leg or foot. Using the Reformer for this type of injury will support your spine and also promote steady posture during your recovery.

5.     Allows for Adjustable Resistance

The Reformer machine uses a series of springs to create adjustable resistance. This means that you can start your workout with minimal resistance and then gradually increase it as you progress with your rehabilitation. This not only allows for gradual muscle strengthening but also ensures that your exercises are safe.

6.     Improves Range of Motion

When you’re healing from an injury pain and limited motion is often two of the aspects you’ll struggle with the most. Reformer Pilates movements help to improve overall joint flexibility which in turn allows for more range of motion. This is crucial for regaining functionality in the muscle and also reduces or eliminates stiffness that often goes a long with injury rehab.

7.     Workout Customisability

Injuries may be similar but the way each person heals from them varies depending on factors such as age and current fitness levels. People also heal at different rates. With this in mind, each person should perform workouts that have been tailored to their unique requirements.

Fortunately, exercises on the Reformer can be customised and modified to create a personalized routine to suit your needs. This also means that you can exercise at your own pace and increase intensity when the affected body part is strong enough to move forward.

Final Thought

Workouts on the Reformer Pilates are an excellent way to get back into your workout after an injury. It also allows you to exercise injured muscles and ligaments and increase intensity at your own pace.

By performing exercises specially designed to build core strength, you will also increase your posture and general balance. Feeling more stable when you stand up or walk will also aid your long-term recovery. If you’re facing a long or difficult recovery, it’s a good idea to invest in a few Reformer Pilates sessions. You’ll be glad you did!