PILATES "Group Reformer Class" in NYC

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Elln

Cathlete
Just had my first introductory "Group Reformer Class" at http://www.reformingny.com/ and it was GREAT!!!!! Bought a book of 10-group visits and I am really excited about this. The instructor was so knowledgeable and patient that you couldn't help but want to go forward with classes. I am also thinking of buying one of the reformers http://www.pilates.com/BBAPP/V/equipment/iq-reformer.html (but that is in the future). So, hopefully the combination of the mat classes with the reformer classes and my at-home videos - I will finally start to see some definition. Keep your fingers crossed!!

Elln
 
RE: PILATES

Elln,
Enjoy! Balance Body is an excellent brand and I don't believe you can go wrong with that pick:) I have a Stott Professional Reformer and I love it.

I'm sure you will start to see some definition farily quickly;).. I did. Unlike weight training which tends to work muscles in isolation, the reformer exercises are complete movements that require many muscles to work at once....you'll probably find you will become more toned without increasing much in size. I found by combining weight training and reformer work I could get the best of both worlds.

When and if you do buy your reformer, I'll be more than happy to recommend some great reformer DVDs for home use. You can always drop me an e-mail.

The box and the jumpboard are truly great accessories. The box is great for back, leg and ab work and the jumpboard is something you may consider down the line (I use it often for rebounding and plyometrics). I'm hoping your class is small enough that you will get to play with all the accessories.

Have fun and please let us know how it goes!

Robin:)
 
RE: PILATES

Elln-
How utterly cool!!! Reformer pilates that is affordable. I'm amazed. I think I've got to try this!

Thank you SO MUCH for sharing!!

(Can you tell I'm a little excited?)
-Nancy
 
RE: PILATES

Nancy:

If you try a "free introductory class", mention my name because I get a "referral" which is a free class!

Thanks!!!

Elln Hines
 
RE: PILATES

Thanks, Robin! I will definitely take you up on your "reformer advice".

I must tell you that my Mat class (which is held in my apt. complex) was pretty disappointing. I just question the instructor's knowledge level and experience. I am thinking of just doing my tapes instead and doing the "reformer classes" 3x a week. But I will see.

I am so excited about Pilates!!!!

Elln
 
RE: PILATES

Elln,
I don't know if you have Sara Picot's More than Mat DVDs...if you don't, you may want to pick up the the Intermediate or Advanced DVD (depending on your level) because they are excellent Mat Pilates exercises that mimic movements on the reformer. It can end up being a great 20 minute quick add on Mat Pilate workout once you master it (it does take a little practice) and it will help you tremendously with your reformer training. You will have to do the long workout a few times to master the moves and breathing before you can go straight to the quick fast workout, but I think it is worth it. I enjoy it when I want to fine tune some of my reformer moves and some of the balancing moves on the mat can actually be more difficult because you don't have the spring resistance of the reformer holding you in place. It ends up being another way of balancing and using some of your finer core muscles:) I still use my other Mat DVDs (ie: Stott, MTV Mix, Hilary Burnett), but this one is unique and especially useful for those who do reformer work.

JMO,
Robin
 
RE: PILATES

Thanks, Robin! I actually just ordered Sara Picot's "More Than Mat - BEGINNER" DVD along with "Pilates for Dummies". I have alot of pilate videos from http://www.Gaiam.com and the Mari Winsor ones - so I have a good selection to start with. Just picked up the magazine "PilatesStyle" - it is great. Also, read that there is a Pilates Conference in NYC in August which I might just attend. http://www.pilatesstyle.com/conference/

So, hopefully I will see some results by May 1 (my target date),and then I will decide about purchasing a Reformer.

Elln
 
RE: PILATES

With doing about 30-minutes of exercises, I couldn't believe the intensity of the reformer exercises. I need non-impact exercises and this is just perfect. With a "jump board" at the end of the reformer, you can simulate running or walking, similar to the "urban rebounder" except you are lying down. It just appears to be the perfect solution to someone who is looking for non-impact cardio and resistance exercises. (Robin, correct me if I am wrong)

So, I plan on doing the "reformer classes" for 3 months and then see if my results would make it worth it for me to purchase a reformer for my home.

I do have good DVDs, so I will do mat at home.

I have not had any luck with (walking, weights or elliptical) in getting rid of my middle -so with what I have heard about the pilate abdominal results - I have to go with an open mind!

My instructor was great - and very motivating!

Elln
 
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