new to pilates

kmshinn7 · Joined: 10 Mar 2012 Posts: 15 Location:

I am new to pilates and want to purchase an aeropilates reformer. Will I benefit more from a 5 cord vs a 4 cord, will I notice much of a difference? I have ordered the aeropilates premier 4 cord but just saw there is a 5 cord. I am tempted to cancel my order before it ships and order the 5 cord. Any advise would be appreciated!

Soo · Joined: 26 Feb 2012 Posts: 10 Location:

Unfortunately I can't give any advice on 4 vs 5 (other than to say my usual approach is that if you can afford the machine that will grow with you then you should) -- but I did want to say that I bought my (4 cord) Aero Pilates machine about 3 weeks ago and I LOVE it. I do about 20 minutes a day at the moment I can already feel differences.

This forum isn't particularly active - so some searching of old threads might help you make up your mind.

Good luck!

kmshinn7 · Joined: 10 Mar 2012 Posts: 15 Location:

Thank you so much for your reply. I have been reading over the old posts. I had ordered the 4 cord aeropilates premier but when I saw the 5 cord, I cancelled the order and went with the 5 cord. It was actually the same price and the 5 cord has a wider foot platform for the standing excercises and a 2 1/2 inch wider cushion. Also comes with the curved head pillow. So I guess my decision was easy. Just hoping I won't be overwhelmed with all the extra cords. Looking forward to trying it out!

Linda A. · Joined: 20 Jun 2007 Posts: 393 Location:

I believe you made the very best decision. You are going to have more options when you work out.

kmshinn7 · Joined: 10 Mar 2012 Posts: 15 Location:

I can't wait to get started. I may be asking some questions as I learn the process. If you have tips to pass along, they would be greatly appreciated! :)

Soo · Joined: 26 Feb 2012 Posts: 10 Location:

You are going to love it I'm sure!

My newbie tip would be that if you can set it up somewhere easily accessible where you can leave it set up that will encourage you to use it. It does fold away but - especially when you are starting - if it's out you are more likely to get on it for a few minutes every now and then.

I have no idea what you fitness level is (so this may not apply) but my other tip is that if you do what you can when you start you'll find quite quickly you can do more and more. I am very overweight and 2 and a half weeks ago when I first used the reformer - getting on to the floor (and then back up again!!) was DIFFICULT, clumsy and briefly made me think this was not going to be for me.

I could not get my feet into the leg straps (it was quite comical trying) at all.

Today, getting down and up from the reformer is straightforward and I can get my feet into the straps no problem at all. I've built up to a 20 minute session that I do in the morning.

It is amazing stuff and I'm a total convert -- so much so that sometimes I'll sneak in another 20 minutes at night! :)

kmshinn7 · Joined: 10 Mar 2012 Posts: 15 Location:

Great advice Soo. I used to teach ballet, I am 52 and taking dance classes again. I'm' just feeling my age and want to tighten up my muscles and get stronger. I plan to leave it out so it will be easier to get on it and work out. I have always loved stretching exercises so I feel this will be great. All the reviews are wonderful and I'm seeing older ladies really enjoying it. That's the key, to enjoy it so you will continue with it. :)

Soo · Joined: 26 Feb 2012 Posts: 10 Location:

I expect you won't have any of my clumsiness problems if you taught ballet!! :)

I know I'm being repetitive but I am amazed -- every day I see an improvement in my flexibility and mobility and it's only been a few weeks.

Linda A. · Joined: 20 Jun 2007 Posts: 393 Location:

Soo, Isn't Pilates an amazing way to get your body into the best shape of its life!!! Even at almost 69 years of age, I continue to see improvements in my body, love the flexibility and the agility of my body, as well as the amazing core and abs!

Soo · Joined: 26 Feb 2012 Posts: 10 Location:

It really is. I have plantar fasciitis and I have seen a big improvement since I started Pilates. This is especially impressive as I've also been increasing the walking I've been doing significantly and normally that aggravates the PF - but no problems this time!!

kmshinn7 · Joined: 10 Mar 2012 Posts: 15 Location:

Well ladies, I got my reformer yesterday and have already enjoyed it. I am planning on putting the videos in this morning and check them out. My goal is to be still using it at 69 like you Linda. I was amazed at the workout from the rebounder. Actually worked up a sweat. I truly love the leg circles. Thanks again for all your input and I will keep you posted!

Linda A. · Joined: 20 Jun 2007 Posts: 393 Location:

I know the more you do Pilates the more you are going to fall in love with Pilates! My one regret is that I didn't discover Pilates until my 60's. I could have not only looked better, but felt better earlier in my life had I known about Pilates. I am confident kmshinn7 that you no doubt will be doing Pilates when you are 69! Yes, please keep us posted on your experiences and results! I love your enthusiasm!

kmshinn7 · Joined: 10 Mar 2012 Posts: 15 Location:

Linda, hearing from people like you that have continued on with pilates in your senior years, makes me very enthsiastic! I know I have something to look forward to! ;)

Pam · Joined: 07 Oct 2006 Posts: 112 Location:

I remember seeing a lady in her 90's on Oprah Winfrey Show that lived in Washington DC and she had an apartment with her pilates performer beside her bed. She was actively working and walking to work daily and gave pilates credit for her in good shape and active.

kmshinn7 · Joined: 10 Mar 2012 Posts: 15 Location:

Wow ladies, I just did the rebounder video. That is truly a must have. Great workout and I can really feel it in my legs and abs. I can't imagine going to the next level, even the beginner video was a workout. Happy rebounding!!! ;)