What role does the reformer play in Stott Pilates?

The reformer in Stott Pilates plays a critical role by providing both resistance and assistance during exercises. This unique piece of equipment is designed with springs that can be adjusted to increase or decrease resistance, allowing practitioners to tailor their workouts to their individual strength levels and goals. The reformer's adjustable resistance aids in challenging the muscles while also supporting movements that may otherwise be difficult to perform on a mat, enabling individuals to engage in a diverse range of exercises safely and effectively. Through this mechanism, users can deepen their understanding of core control, alignment, and precision in movement patterns, which are foundational principles of Pilates practice. This aspect makes the reformer an essential tool for developing both strength and flexibility while maintaining proper form throughout varied exercises.