How to Identify and Resolve Common Issues ?
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To calculate a springs resistance across a known distance,
add the initial tension in lbs to the rate in lb per inch of extension. For example, a 100% spring extended 12 inches will have the following total resistance: 6.0 + (1.25 x 12) = 21 pounds of total resistance for a 100% spring.
The type of spring that is used on Pilates equipment is called a “tension/extension spring”. When this type of spring is stretched from its resting position, it exerts an opposing force proportional to its change in length. In other words, the more you stretch a spring, the more opposing force it provides.
Merrithew® Reformer Springs
Formerly known as STOTT®, Merrithew® Reformers consist of five springs of mixed resistance: White Spring: 25% Tension. Blue Spring: 50% Tension. Red Spring: 100% Tension.
To calculate the amount of spring rate you will need on order to meet your working loads, simply divide the load you will be applying on your spring by the distance you expect your spring to travel or compress under that load. The equivalent to that formula will be your compression spring rate as shown below.
The spring constant determines exactly how much force will be required to deform a spring. The standard international (SI) unit of measurement for spring constants is Newtons/meter, but in North America they are often measured in pounds/inch. A higher spring constant means a stiffer spring, and vice-versa.
The average reformer varies in size but it`s typically about 80 to 100 inches long and 20 to 30 inches wide. If you`re working with a smaller room, you can choose a foldable Pilates reformer that can stand up straight when not in use.
Reformer Pilates can be considered as strength training due to its resistance feature of using a system of pulleys to challenge, stress and overload your muscles while stabilizing the core at the same time.
Replace all springs every 24 months and spring clips every 12 months, or as needed within that period. FAILURE TO PERFORM RECOMMENDED SAFETY CHECKS, OR USING EQUIPMENT WITH IMPROPERLY ADJUSTED, BROKEN OR WORN PARTS, COULD RESULT IN SERIOUS BODILY INJURY.
Most Pilates mats are over 6mm in thickness, if you`re looking for a dual mat to use for both Pilates and Yoga, then a 6mm mat is the sweet spot, something like our Evolution or Deluxe Warrior Mats. That being said, the best thickness for Pilates is between 8mm – 15mm.
With natural wear and tear, you will need to replace the different parts of your pilates reformer to ensure the machine is safe for continual use. Wheels should be replaced every five years, reformer springs every 2-3 years and ropes every 5 years.
Higher spring rates will give you a firmer feel, and many racecar drivers tend to prefer stiffer springs to reduce body roll and body lean. They also want low ground clearance to maintain a low center of gravity. On smooth tracks, they don`t need to worry about bottoming out and damaging the chassis.
Compression springs consist of open coils (Pitch). The Pitch ensures that windings do not touch each other and thus give room to be pressed. The basic calculation to calculate a spring constant is C = F/u, see the standard calculation of a spring constant.
The work that must be done to stretch spring a distance x from its equilibrium position is W = ½kx2. Details of the calculation: (a) Given: F = mg = (4 kg)(9.8 m/s2) = 39.2 N. x = 0.025 m.
For a constant applied force, If the spring constant increases the displacement of the spring will decrease as the stiffness of the spring increases.
Reformer Pilates can be done anywhere from 3 to 6 days a week depending on the intensity of each workout. Please speak to your doctor if you have any debilitating injuries before jumping into a class. The Reformer is low impact and easier on the joints than other activities like running.
Final Verdict. Pilates Reformers are amazing machines that should fit into everyone`s routine. If you have experience working on a reformer, are a self-motivated individual, and have the space and funds to purchase one, then they are well worth it!
Unlike traditional Pilates reformer workouts, which isolate specific muscles individually with faster and lighter reps and longer breaks between exercises, Megaformer workouts involve performing slow movements that use many muscles simultaneously with no rest time between exercises.
For most people, the sweet spot when doing reformer Pilates is at least 2-3 times per week—just enough to see results but not feel overwhelmed. However, the amount of work you put into your sessions and the number of times you need to work out will largely depend on the goals you have for your body.
Reformer Pilates is superior to mat based Pilates as the repertoire of exercises available is greatly increased providing far more variety. The exercises usually work muscles through a large range of motion which is ideal for building and toning muscles as well increasing stability through the joints.
While doing Pilates on a mat instead of a Reformer may not seem as fun or challenging, many students see results — improved strength, posture, agility and flexibility, as well as toned muscles — within a few months from once-a-week Pilates mat sessions.
What Are the Differences Between Reformer and Mat Pilates? The main difference between Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates is the use of your body for resistance versus springs and straps. Mat Pilates requires zero equipment aside from the mat whereas Reformer Pilates uses a machine.
Reformer Pilates is a form of exercise that can provide both strength and cardiovascular benefits, depending on the intensity and duration of the workout.
This is because Reformer Pilates exercises give you well-toned muscles. Lean muscles, in return, burn more calories when working out. By strengthening your body, Reformer Pilates also allows you to do more intense and dynamic workouts. All of which makes Reformer Pilates a good exercise for weight loss.
However, most people who do reformer pilates on a regular basis find that 2-3 times per week is the sweet spot in terms of seeing results without feeling too overwhelmed or overworked.