There are many pilates machines on the market today but the two most popular are the Malibu Pilates chair and the Pilates Performer. These are two completely different machines and offer different benefits. Below is a review of each machine and its pros and cons.
Malibu Pilates – this is a new design for a pilates machine that can be used in your home. The designer of pilates, Joseph Pilate, originally used a chair many years ago, but this is the first time there has been a chair type machine marketed for the public. When you buy Malibu Pilates, you get two videos and have the option to upgrade and get a third video. These videos focus on how to get a good workout using the chair. Pilates exercises usually are done for flexibility and core strength and cardio isn’t usually part of the work out. The exercises are simple to do yet extremely effective. Like all pilates workouts, the exercises focus on building core strength, but in a different way on the chair. You can reach muscles using the chair that you normally wouldn’t work. The chair is very stable but some exercises take a little time to get used to.
Pros – easy to assemble, comes with a 20 minute video and a more advanced 45 minute video. The exercises work arms, legs, and core muscles. You get a cardiovascular workout. Folds easily for storage. If you’re bored with normal pilates this is a fun alternative.
Cons – when you first start, it can be hard to figure out some of the exercises. Several have you almost standing on the chair, bending over. The chair is stable but it can still take a little while to feel comfortable performing the exerices.
Pilates Performer – this is a more traditional pilates machine. You lay down in the machine and do exercises in a controlled manner. There isn’t any cardio involved and is a more laid back approach to pilates as opposed to the Malibu Pilates chair.
Pros – You can purchase videos that you show you how to use your machine and get the most out of it. This is a great machine to use if you need to strengthen your back and stretch out your lower back muscles. The pilates performer is easy to use and strengthens and tones your body quickly. It can slide under your bed if you have room there.
Cons – you don’t get a cardiovascular work out.
Depending on your style and personality one of these machines will make a perfect addition to your normal routine. You get a good strength and flexibility workout with both machines so they either one is a good choice.
When combined with proper health supplements like the acai berry, the Malibu Pilates machine can help you lose a bunch of weight and get healthy.
