Pilates is a popular form of exercise that can be performed on a mat or with equipment such as the Pilates Reformer. The Reformer is a versatile piece of equipment that can be used to target various muscle groups and improve overall fitness. In addition to its numerous physical benefits, Pilates can also help improve circulation.
Circulation refers to the movement of blood through the body, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the cells and removing waste products. Poor circulation can lead to a range of health issues, including fatigue, muscle pain, and even cardiovascular disease. Fortunately, Pilates Reformer exercises can help improve circulation by increasing blood flow to the muscles and stimulating the cardiovascular system.
In this article, we will discuss the best Pilates Reformer exercises for improving circulation, their benefits, and how to perform them correctly.
1.Footwork: Footwork is a great way to warm up the body and get the blood flowing. This exercise involves lying on your back on the Reformer with your feet on the footbar. From there, you'll perform a series of movements, such as pushing the footbar away from you and pulling it back in, while keeping your legs straight and engaging your core.
2.Arm Circles: Arm circles are another great way to get the blood flowing. To perform this exercise, you'll sit on the Reformer with your legs straight out in front of you and your arms extended out to the sides. From there, you'll circle your arms forward and then backward, keeping your shoulders down and engaging your core.
3.Leg Circles: Leg circles are similar to arm circles, but they target the legs and hips. To perform this exercise, you'll lie on your back on the Reformer with your legs extended up toward the ceiling. From there, you'll circle your legs in a clockwise direction and then in a counterclockwise direction, keeping your legs straight and engaging your core.
4.Rowing: Rowing is a great way to work the upper body while also improving circulation. To perform this exercise, you'll sit on the Reformer with your legs straight out in front of you and your arms extended forward, holding the straps. From there, you'll pull the straps back toward your chest while keeping your shoulders down and engaging your core.
5.Backstroke: The backstroke is another great way to work the upper body and improve circulation. To perform this exercise, you'll lie on your stomach on the Reformer with your arms extended out in front of you, holding the straps. From there, you'll pull the straps back toward your hips while lifting your chest off the Reformer and engaging your back muscles.
6.Knee Stretches: Knee stretches are a great way to work the core and improve circulation to the lower body. To perform this exercise, you'll kneel on the Reformer with your hands on the footbar. From there, you'll push the footbar away from you while keeping your back straight and engaging your core.
7.Plank: The plank is a great way to work the core and improve circulation throughout the body. To perform this exercise, you'll start in a push-up position with your hands on the footbar and your feet on the carriage. From there, you'll hold the plank position, keeping your body straight and engaging your core.
8.Jumping: Jumping exercises on the Reformer are a great way to get the heart rate up and improve circulation throughout the body. To perform jumping exercises, you'll start by standing on the carriage with your feet together. From there, you'll jump up and down, landing softly on the carriage and engaging your core.
9.Standing Arm Springs: Standing arm springs are a great way to work the upper body while also improving circulation to the arms and shoulders. To perform this exercise, you'll stand on the Reformer with one foot on the carriage and the other foot on the platform. From there, you'll hold the straps and perform a series of arm movements, such as pulling the straps back and then lowering them down.
Pilates Reformer exercises are a great way to improve circulation by increasing blood flow and oxygenation to the body. The Reformer is a versatile piece of equipment that can be adjusted to target specific muscle groups and areas of the body. Pilates exercises on the Reformer can help to improve circulation by stimulating the cardiovascular system, increasing blood flow to the limbs, and improving overall cardiovascular health.
