We at x2o Studio have compiled a list of Pilates methods available in the Los Gatos area to help you make an educated decision on whats right for you.

A quick refresher Pilates is a strength training workout in general, regardless if you’re on a machine or on a mat. It is a game changer fitness method that intensifies your workout with 100s of different moves and provides you with the perfect balance of strength, flexibility, and muscle control.

Pilates overall regardless of mat or reformer machine, exercises & strengthens your core, strengthens your mind, helps with back pain, improves mobility, balance, stability, and the list could go on. The method also requires that you work with a resistance that can be adjusted to ensure progress. 

The Pilates xformer machine is an adaptation of the pilates reformer and offers increased resistance and intensity but still caters to all levels of support, so that you can do a comprehensive and challenging workout. x2o Studio located in Los Gatos specializes in the use of xformer pilates machines, it’s the real deal. The xformer machine works all parts of the body while integrating strength training, balance and stretching into each part of the body. From upper body, core, glutes, arms and even mind this machine can do it all. 

The use of a xformer pilates machine enables people from athletes to people with a limited range of movement, pre/postpartum or injury to safely perform thoughtful and healthy exercises. The wide range of  spring loads on the xformer increase the flexibility of the exercises, you can make changes to, and allow you to do much more than can be done on a mat. 

The reformer pilates machine uses the spring force of a person's body weight to target specific muscle groups and can be used in a variety of ways to improve your Pilates form and slow twitch muscle fibers. Essentially, the Pilate reformer helps you improve your posture, increase your flexibility, improve your core strength, and increase your muscle stamina. 

Pilates mats can be performed with a variety of weights on a wide range of different mats. Mat pilates class follows a series of fluid choreographies and can highlight one - leg exercises that strengthen powerful hip muscles, increase spine and hip flexibility or improve balance. Mat Pilates is based on the original exercises Joseph Pilates developed to strengthen his own body as a young man and then began teaching others.

Nowadays, you can also buy an affordable traditional Pilates reformer for home use / home gym, but we recommend taking a few live classes before starting training at home. That way you have a base foundation on how to navigate yourself around a pilates reformer at home. Start with a high-quality virtual class choreographed and directed by a certified and well-known pilates expert, we can help you find a trainer on our staff that that fits your specific needs, contact us today.    

In conclusion, regardless of which method you go with, pilates with a machine or pilates without a machine, you will get a great workout. It all comes down to what you’re comfortable with. The trainer makes a huge difference, so do your research. If you jive with your trainer and trust them to help you build confidence within one of these methods, you’re golden and off to the races. If you have any questions about trainer attributes or want to schedule a class with us, email us a hi@x2ostudio.com.