Pilates Pilates Reformer Training 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: On the Reformer, a 'lighter' spring setting means:
- More resistance requiring greater strength
- Less resistance, often used for beginner or injured clients (Correct answer)
- The carriage will not move at all
- Only red springs should be used
Correct answer: Less resistance, often used for beginner or injured clients
Lighter spring settings provide less resistance on the Reformer, making exercises more accessible for beginners or those in rehabilitation while still challenging stability.
Question 2: What is the primary function of the footbar on the Reformer?
- It serves as a headrest support
- It is a fixed or adjustable bar used for footwork, pressing, and various movement patterns (Correct answer)
- It is used exclusively for arm exercises
- It adjusts the spring tension automatically
Correct answer: It is a fixed or adjustable bar used for footwork, pressing, and various movement patterns
The footbar is a padded bar at one end of the Reformer used for footwork series, leg presses, and as a point of contact for multiple exercise variations.
Question 3: In the Reformer Footwork series, 'Arches' position refers to:
- Toes pointing downward in full plantar flexion
- The arch of the foot placed on the footbar with heels hanging off (Correct answer)
- Heels together and toes apart in a Pilates V
- Feet flat on the footbar in parallel
Correct answer: The arch of the foot placed on the footbar with heels hanging off
In the Arches position, the metatarsal arch of the foot contacts the footbar with heels suspended, targeting the intrinsic foot muscles and calf complex differently than other positions.
Question 4: Which Reformer exercise specifically targets spinal articulation similar to the mat Roll Up?
- Short Box Series: Round Back (Correct answer)
- Stomach Massage Series
- Elephant
- Long Stretch Series
Correct answer: Short Box Series: Round Back
The Short Box Round Back exercise on the Reformer mirrors the C-curve and spinal articulation of the mat Roll Up, using the box for seated support.
Question 5: The Reformer Rowing Series originates from which position?
- Kneeling on the carriage
- Seated on the carriage facing the footbar or facing away (Correct answer)
- Standing on the platform
- Prone (face down) on the carriage
Correct answer: Seated on the carriage facing the footbar or facing away
The Rowing Series is performed seated on the carriage and includes variations facing the footbar and facing away, developing shoulder strength and spinal mobility.
Question 6: What safety guideline applies when a client steps on or off the Reformer carriage?
- The springs should be on full tension to keep the carriage still
- The carriage should be locked or the instructor should stabilize it before the client steps off (Correct answer)
- Clients should jump off the carriage to save time
- No specific guideline is needed as the Reformer is always safe
Correct answer: The carriage should be locked or the instructor should stabilize it before the client steps off
Before a client steps on or off, the carriage must be locked or manually stabilized by the instructor to prevent the carriage from sliding and causing a fall.
Pilates Pilates Reformer Training 1
On the Reformer, a 'lighter' spring setting means: