08-11-2006
Balanced Body, Sacramento, Calif, a leading resource for Pilates equipment, education and information, introduces a new line of Pilates apparatus that takes the classical designs of Joseph Pilates to a new level of comfort, improved ergonomics, and expanded performance. The redesigned Pilates Armchair (patent pending) and Step Barrel (patent pending) allows Pilates practitioners to add new dimensions to their Pilates repertoire.
The new equipment is based on the Pilates principles of spring resistance and is more ergonomically correct, said Ken Endelman, founder and chief executive officer for Balanced Body. The products feature innovative benefits, such as allowing the user to do a wide variety of trap, reformer, and ladder barrel exercises. In addition, adjustable springarms enable users of any body type to perform numerous resistance-based exercises at varying levels of difficulty. These products are the next dimension in Pilates equipment, and Im thrilled that Balanced Body is leading the way.
Balanced Body teamed up with internationally recognized Pilates educator Rael Isacowitz to create these innovative designs. A 30-year Pilates veteran, Isacowitz centered the products concept on adding extra points of resistance and then redesigning the equipment to correspond with a growing understanding of human biomechanicsthereby blending the pure form of Pilates with current scientific knowledge.
The Pilates Armchair
Inspired by Joseph Pilates original, the redesigned Armchair allows users to perform Armchair, Reformer, Cadillac, or Ladder Barrel repertoire on one piece of equipment. The new Armchair offers a four-in-one repertoire on one machine profoundly expanded for seated, standing, prone, supine, and lateral exercises, along with rotational work; multiple points of resistance for spring attachments (adjustable for both angle and force); a modified shape to reinforce upright alignment when seated, encouraging activation of core muscles; adjustable springarms to accommodate a variety of exercises and body types; and user-friendliness, especially for clients with restricted mobility.
The Pilates Step Barrel
The Step Barrel, inspired by Joseph Pilates original Spine Corrector, features the addition of a full-spring system to allow resistance exercises. The Step Barrel delivers 100% of the utility of the original, with new advancements such as: springs that allow the addition of resistance exercises formerly possible only on the Cadillac and Reformer; an elongated shape for safe and full support of the entire back and head; a rounded step, which improves comfort and support; adjustable springarms that accommodate a variety of exercises and body types; and a convenient pull-out mat that slides underneath the equipment for storage.
The Armchair and the Step Barrel will be available fall 2006. For more information, contact: (800) PILATES; www.Pilates.com.
[SOURCE: Body Balance, August 10, 2006]
