Elevate your pilates journey with the springboard
Pilates enthusiasts are always looking for ways to deepen their practice and challenge their bodies in new and exciting ways. While the Pilates Reformer has been a long-time favorite for many practitioners, the Pilates Springboard is quickly gaining popularity for its versatility, space efficiency, and unique approach to resistance training. Chisel N Stride is the first studio in Dubai offering pilates springboards. We explain why we chose these over the Pilates Reformers and how the benefits you can reap by incorporating our pilates classes into your fitness routine.
What Is the Pilates Springboard?
The Pilates Springboard, also known as a Tower or Wall Unit, is a piece of equipment designed by Pilates innovator Ellie Herman. It's a wall-mounted apparatus that features a vertical board with attachment points for springs with handles and straps. These springs provide adjustable levels of resistance, allowing you to perform a wide variety of exercises that target different muscle groups.
The Benefits of Training with the Pilates Springboard
The Springboard's wall-mounted design makes it perfect for being able to stand, lie down or sit while performing a multitude of core strengthening exercises.
Versatility - The Springboard allows for a multitude of exercises that can challenge the body in various planes of motion. You can perform exercises standing, sitting, kneeling, or lying down, targeting areas that might be more challenging to engage on the Reformer.
Focus on Alignment and Posture - The nature of the Springboard's resistance challenges your stability and encourages a greater awareness of your body's alignment. This can lead to improvements in posture and overall body mechanics.
Scalable Intensity - With the ability to adjust the spring tension, the Springboard caters to all fitness levels. Beginners can use lighter resistance to focus on form and control, while advanced users can increase the tension to build strength and endurance.
Functional Movement - Many Springboard exercises mimic daily movements, making the training functional and practical. The resistance provided by the springs helps to train your muscles to perform everyday activities with more ease and less risk of injury.
Core Strengthening - Like all Pilates equipment, the Springboard provides an excellent workout for the core. The spring resistance requires constant engagement of the powerhouse muscles, thus enhancing core strength and stability.
Should You Start with Mat Pilates Before Using the Pilates Springboard?
For individuals new to Pilates, beginning with mat Pilates can provide a solid foundation before transitioning to the Springboard. Mat Pilates introduces the fundamental principles of the method, including proper breathing, core engagement, alignment, and controlled movements. By mastering these basics, you can ensure that when you do progress to the Springboard, you'll be able to maintain good form and get the most out of the exercises. Mat classes also strengthen the core muscles that are vital for performing Springboard exercises effectively. Additionally, starting with mat Pilates allows you to become aware of your body's strengths and limitations in a simpler setting, which can help prevent injury when you're ready to add the variable of spring resistance.
Whether you begin with mat Pilates or dive straight into using the Springboard, remember that Pilates is a journey, and each apparatus brings its unique benefits and challenges to your practice. Listen to your body, and choose the path that aligns with your personal fitness goals and needs.