I asked a certified instructor if it was possible to do a reformer Pilates workout without a reformer—here’s what she suggests
To the uninitiated, the Pilates reformer’s combination of sliding carriage, slings, handles, bars and pulleys looks like the most complicated fitness contraption ever designed. To the initiated, it’s an incredibly effective way to develop strength and control, which explains its popularity. But unless you have the money and space to install one in your house, you’ll have to pay to visit a Pilates studio to use one. But Brittni Johnson, an NCPT Pilates instructor for wellness app BetterMe, says that you can replicate a reformer workout at home. Latest Videos From You may like She designed this short workout as an easy, at-home alternative, replacing the Reformer with sliders and resistance bands to mimic the reformer movements. “By introducing external tension, you move beyond basic mat exercises to engage the deep stabilizing muscles, improve joint decompression, and create the functional resistance needed to sculpt a lean, resilient physique,” says Johnson. If you don’t have any sliders available, you can use a towel on hard floors, or a paper plate on carpet. 1. Sliding reverse lunge …
