If you tap on links we provide, we may receive compensation.
Fresh Splash / Getty Images
In This Article
Have you seen those machines that look like souped-upPilatesreformers?
Theyre at studios likeThe Studio (MDR)andSLTin L.A. and NYC.
Fresh Splash / Getty Images
If youve never tried one, they can appear intimidating.
You might even ask yourself: How do Inotbecome a causality while doing a plank and moving the carriage?
Fear notwere here to clear things up.
@thestudiomdr
The fitness machine is called a Megaformer, and its the brainchild of Sebastien Lagree.
What is a Megaformer?
Anyone and everyone is welcomeincluding you.
@thestudiomdr
Ready to jump in with us?
Keep reading to find out everything you should probably know before taking your first Megaformer class.
Meet the Experts
What Are Megaformer Workouts?
@purepilateshb
The Megaformer machine is meant to provide a low-impact, total-body, high-intensity workout.
What Are Megaformer Classes Like?
She also notes that your balance will be tested because youre on a moving platform.
@thestudiomdr
What Should You Wear to a Megaformer Class?
She suggests tight-fitting workout clothing because it enables the instructor to more easily see your form and make corrections.
Its also important to wear socks with grippers on the bottoms to prevent slipping.
In an introductory session, youll also learn the different positions on the front, carriage, and back.
Dont worry; in every class, the instructor is there to guide you.
Bring water.
Staying hydrated is always important, but water is especially necessary in Megaformer workouts.
Arrive a few minutes early.
So often, we rush into a workout class a few minutes late.
Warming up your body is so important toget the most out of your workouts.
Pay attention to your instructor.
Doing things correctly the first time will help you get the most out of an exercise.
It’s not supposed to get easier.
All of the classes are intense, but dont let that deter you, says Solomon.
And you start feeling the results very quickly.
Listen to your body.
Instructors offer modifications for those who have injuries or who struggle with a move.
And, if it’s crucial that you stop, you stop.
No one is staring at you.
They are all concentrating on just trying to make it through," says Solomon.
Remember how we said it feels like a cool workout club?
Consistency is key.
Your bodydoesneed to heal, so we encourage breaks between classes.
Be patient.
I promise you, it is life-changingboth physically and mentally.
The Benefits of Megaformer Workouts
They are low-impact, high-intensity workouts.
Solomon shares that Megaformer workouts induce little-to-no impact on the joints, in contrast to exercises likerunningand jumping rope.
But, low impact doesnt mean the workouts are low intensity.
Megaformer workouts were designed to blend strength training with cardio for a powerful one-two punch.
They work your whole body.
Wang notes that the Megaformer provides atotal-body workout, helping strengthen all your major muscles.
They strengthen your core.
So, although youll tone all of your muscles, Megaformer workouts are especially designed for building core strength.
They are efficient.
Because Megaformer workouts are high intensity and involve all your major muscles, you may torcha lot of calories.
They are effective.
They strengthen your mind-body connection.
Megaformer workouts do just that.
Wang says they really connect you to your body.
Megaformer vs.
The first difference is in the equipment itself.
The Megaformer is a modified reformer created by Lagree.
Beyond equipment differences, the workout methodologies vary as well.
Megaformer workouts involve very slow, controlled movements that involve many muscles at once.
Think lunges or push-ups on the machine, says Wang.
This is meant to keep your heart pounding the whole time, making for a high-intensity workout.
), our experts recommend the following products to make your workouts more comfortableand lets face itmore fun.
Hydroflask Wide Mouth Water Bottle
Remember how we said you’ll need to bring water to class?
“I use this almost every day,” says Wang.
The grip prevents slipping on sweat and [off the] Megaformer, notes Solomon.
How cool is that?
“I use this before workouts,” says Wang.
“I love that it’s clean, and it smells amazing!”
TriggerPoint GRID Foam Roller
If Megaformer workouts are one thing, they’re intense.
give a shot to help ease sore muscles post-workout with thisfoam roller.
Harvard Health Publishing.Understanding and improving core strength.
Updated September 4, 2018.
