Why are springs used instead of weights?
Joseph Pilates originally made all the equipment utilizing springs for resistance. Current spring-based PILATES EQUIPMENT provides gradual resistance as your muscles contract, which ensures the muscles are being worked properly. There is greater resistance toward the muscle’s strongest point of contraction and less resistance on the initiation/completion of the contraction so there is less stress on tendons and ligaments. Not all gym exercise machines or free weights do this. PILATES springs can also be set up to ASSIST you through an exercise if you lack enough mobility to achieve the end result. As you get stronger or more flexible, the springs can be set up to RESIST you during the exercise. Often times, there is no way to set up gym equipment to ASSIST you through the motion without involving other body parts, thus compromising your form and alignment.
