Is there a difference between a 4 spring Reformer and a 5 or 6 Spring Reformer?
Yes…The tension of the machine will be different based on the spring configuration. The 4 spring Reformer is the original design of Joe Pilates and is still considered to be the “traditional” Pilates Reformer. Reformers with 5 or 6 springs were created in the late 80’s and early 90’s by an equipment manufacturer who realized that there was a greater market for “Pilates Based” machines because traditional machines were only sold to Certified Pilates Instructors. This was the original reason for “new improved designs.” Then came more changes. The original dimensions of the machines were changed, the springs became more varied, the box size was recreated…….and as a result, the method began to alter. Ultimately, in order to perform Pilates exercises and routines on the modified machine, you needed to modify the exercise and routine. The authentic work of Pilates diluted. Before 2002, the word “Pilates” used to be a federal trademark, and selling “Pilates” equipment had legal limitation
