Is Reformer Pilates Good for Weight Loss?

Reformer Pilates is a low-impact workout that helps achieve the goals of Pilates through coordinated movements with an emphasis on postural control. If you are new to this form of Pilates – it is Pilates 2.0 and involves a bed-like machine (reformer) that increases the resistance of the workout. There are many benefits to doing this exercise, but many Pilates enthusiasts and aspirants ask whether reformer Pilates training is good for losing weight. Read on to learn more about the benefits of reformer Pilates and how it can benefit your wellness journey.

Mat Pilates vs Reformer Pilates: What is the Difference?

Whether you are a pro trainer or just new to this exercise, it is important to know the complete background of each type to help you set your goal and reap the maximum benefits of Pilates. Since mat Pilates and reformer Pilates provide similar benefits, it is no wonder that some people are confused about which exercise is right for their current goals and abilities. Two distinct modalities, each with its own benefits. Here’s a breakdown of two popular types of Pilates to help you decide.

Mat Pilates is beginner-friendly training performed with any equipment. It consists of body weight exercises such as the Hundred, swan-dive, teaser, single-leg circle, seal, crab, roll-up, and roll over, which are all about learning to control the muscles. This type of Pilates allows your body to move on the floor for cushioning and support, which is necessary for building strength, flexibility, and posture. It is also recommended for those people who are suffering from back pain.

Reformer Pilates, on the other hand, uses a traditional piece of equipment that looks like a bed but includes springs, gears, and ropes. It is generally more intense and dynamic than mats as it adds resistance to the exercise routine using the springs, which are part of the reformer machine. At Fast Twitch, our Adelaide based reformer Pilates studio has many different class styles to try, as well as levels of difficulty!

Many of the exercises on the reformer are similar to mat Pilates but performed on another level. And unlike the latter, reformer Pilates is performed on an elevated surface. A beginner to this exercise may find the machine complex and daunting but using such is a great way to tone down the muscles in a short period of time. Adding weights to a standard Pilates routine can make the muscles, core, and lower back more toned and stronger. 

If you are looking for a reformer Pilates studio in Adelaide, come try us out. We are located at 270 North East Road, Klemzig SA 5087. We’re right next to the Klemzig Village Medical Clinic.

How Does Reformer Pilates Work?

“In 10 sessions you will feel the difference, in 20 sessions you will see the difference, and in 30 you will have a new body.” – Joseph Pilates.

Joseph Pilates is the founder of this practice that was brought to the United States in the 1920s. Pilates exercises focus on the core as the centre of the movement. Pilates is all about small movements and low-impact exercises that test one’s flexibility and range of motion. The moves are typically performed on a traditional mat or a machine called a reformer. Reformer Pilates gives the same workout as standard Pilates, but to the next level. The movements involved in this practice build up heat and sweat that significantly help with weight loss. It is easier to shape the body and gain a leaner physique using this practice, as the machine is designed to help you achieve your goal.

For best results, it is recommended to practice reformer Pilates at least three times a week. Some individuals saw visible changes in their bodies after four to 6 weeks of consistent training with the machine. A beginner can burn up to 250 calories by working out on a reformer for at least 60 minutes. While those who have experience with using the machine can burn up to 450 calories in an hour. The standard rate to lose a pound is to burn 3500 more calories than your intake of food.

For best calculations, set the reformer routine per your weight goal or requirement. A study published in 2017 founds that a weight loss program that involves Pilates and aerobic exercises can increase muscle mass and decrease fat percentage. Consistency is the key to weight loss; if you are only training once or twice a month, the progress will be slow, and you are unlikely to see the results. However, attending regular training sessions at least twice a week will likely burn off a lot more calories. In addition, participating in reformer classes Pilates is highly effective for achieving your weight and fitness goals.

Great, so you know doing reformer Pilates can help you burn calories and lose weight, but now you’re probably wondering, what are the top reformer Pilates exercises to try.

The Bottomline About Reformer Pilates For Weight-loss

Does reformer Pilates help in losing weight?

The answer is YES. Reformer Pilates is an elevated form of traditional Pilates that help with weight loss. However, it is not only the main goal of using this exercise.

Reformer Pilates was created to assist in the treatment and rehabilitation of several pathologies, as this exercise includes the body as a whole. This training also aims to strengthen the abdominal muscles, stabilise the joints, and re-educate its movements. Lastly, it balances the muscle capacities and increases the body's flexibility.

So how does reformer pilates help in weight loss? This exercise works the muscles, bones, and joints intensely, which stimulates the body's metabolism rate. It balances the entire performance of the body, which works great in losing a healthy amount of weight. In addition, Pilates movements while using the machine contribute to overall body transformation. Depending on the consistency and frequency of doing reformer exercises, you will start to notice some results in a month of attending classes. Achieve healthier and more toned areas of the body such as the arms, legs, and abdomen. However, if the goal is to lose weight fast and healthy, you need to have a balanced diet along with Pilates exercises.

Interested in learning more about reformer pilates? Checkout our latest article about helpful reformer pilates during pregnancy.

Attend a personalised reformer training class intended for weight and fat loss. This way, you can perform the exercises in a more dynamic way, evolving from one movement to another without interruptions. Wellness changes everything. With reformer Pilates in conjunction with a balanced, healthy diet, you can achieve your goal weight in no time.

Take advantage of our 5 class introductory pass and enjoy reformer Pilates At Fast Twitch!

Reference List & Sources

Mat vs. Reformer Pilates: What Are the Differences and Which Is Better? From Jody Braverman, CPT, FNS, RYT
WHAT ARE THE ORIGINS OF PILATES? Anahana
Does Reformer Pilates Help With Weight Loss? From Jordan Donahue
Can you Lose Weight with a Pilates Reformer? From Pamela Toy