Pilates Reformer Training Flashcards

In the Reformer Elephant exercise, the client stands on the carriage and the primary movement is:

Answer: Spinal flexion with the carriage pushed away and drawn back using the hamstrings and abdominals

Elephant involves standing on the carriage in a forward fold, pressing the carriage out with the feet while maintaining spinal flexion and using hamstrings to pull the carriage back.

What does the headrest position on the Reformer affect?

Answer: Cervical spine alignment and comfort during supine exercises

The Reformer headrest can be adjusted up or down to support the cervical spine in a neutral or comfortable position during supine exercises.

The Long Stretch Series on the Reformer is performed in which position?

Answer: A plank position with hands on the footbar and feet on the headrest platform

The Long Stretch Series is performed in a plank position with hands on the footbar and feet on the headrest platform, challenging full-body stability and core engagement.

How many springs are typically included on a standard Pilates Reformer?

Answer: 4 to 5 springs

A standard Reformer typically has 4 to 5 springs of varying weights (heavy and light) that can be combined to create a wide range of resistance levels.

In the Reformer Stomach Massage series, the client is positioned:

Answer: Seated on the carriage in a C-curve with feet on the footbar

Stomach Massage is performed seated on the carriage with the spine in a C-curve, feet on the footbar, and hands on the carriage edge, combining core work with leg pressing.

What is the purpose of the shoulder rests on the Reformer?

Answer: They prevent the client from sliding into the springs when the carriage is pushed away

Shoulder rests (or shoulder blocks) are padded stops that prevent the client's shoulders from sliding back into the springs when the carriage moves away from the footbar.