Reformer and Strength training - the perfect combination for all round strength and function!!
By Jemma Griffin (Accredited Exercise Physiologist)
By Jemma Griffin (Accredited Exercise Physiologist)
Reformer and strength training are both valuable components of a well-rounded fitness routine, and each offers unique benefits that complement each other. Here's why incorporating both reformer and strength training into your fitness regimen can be advantageous:
Reformer Training
Reformer training involves using a specialised Pilates machine to target various muscle groups and provides a comprehensive full-body workout.
Strength Training
Strength training, on the other hand, focuses on building muscle and strength in specific areas by utilising dumbbells, barbells, weight balls, resistance bands, cables and machines.
By combining both, you ensure that you address all muscle groups for balanced development.
Improved core strength:
Both reformer and strength training emphasise core engagement. A strong core stabilises your body, enhances posture, and reduces the risk of injury during other physical activities.
Flexibility and mobility:
Reformer exercises often involve elongating and stretching muscles, leading to improved flexibility and range of motion. Incorporating this with strength training helps maintain muscle elasticity and joint health.
Injury prevention:
Strengthening muscles through resistance training and reformer exercises can protect your body from injuries, as stronger muscles offer better support and stability during daily activities and sports.
Enhanced muscular endurance:
Performing resistance exercises in strength training and holding positions in reformer exercises can increase your muscular endurance. This means you can sustain physical activities for more extended periods without fatigue.
Increased bone density:
Strength training has been shown to increase bone density, which is especially beneficial in preventing osteoporosis and other age-related bone issues.By applying external load to the body with weights, bands and machinery, muscle mass under tension pulls on the bones to stress the body to strengthen the bones!
Calorie burn and weight management:
Both reformer and strength training contribute to burning calories and building lean muscle mass, supporting weight management and overall body composition. Weight training stimulates lean muscle mass growth and as a result of this, your body burns more energy at rest due to an increase in metabolism.
Functional fitness:
The combination of reformer and strength training can improve functional fitness, making daily tasks such as gardening, carrying, cleaning, grocery shopping easier and reducing the risk of falls as you age.
Psychological benefits:
Engaging in diverse exercise routines like reformer and strength training can prevent workout monotony, keeping you motivated and excited about your fitness journey and more likely to stick to engagement!
Tailored workouts:
Both reformer and strength training can be adapted to suit your individual fitness level, making them suitable for beginners and advanced athletes alike. For example, you want be be strong enough to play/pick up your grandchildren - Strength training may involve specific exercises that incorporate lifting a 10-15kg object up off the floor safely (mimicking a child), whilst reformer pilates may work on spinal and core strength exercises to ensure you are safe to lift.
Jemma Griffin, an Accredited Exercise Physiologist now offers her services upstairs in Studio 2 at Limitless and is able to work with you to design a strength program specific to your needs!
Why not complement your weekly pilates with some strength training with Jemma?
To book in with Jemma please visit her website and email her to arrange a time or visit.
