Quality Home Equipment

I am so pleased with this wonderful piece of Balanced Body Pilates equipment. It is perfect for home use, though I know a former Pilates co-worker who uses the Pilates Springboard / Push Through Bar in her studio with great success!

In light of the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic many Pilates studios and gyms were either closed temporarily or went virtual. Home workouts gyms became much more and more prevalent and the trend hasn’t changed. From a Garage Gym, to a nice studio gym, people want the connivence of the home gym lifestyle. While having equipment at home is not a necessity to stay fit and healthy, having the right quality equipment does enhance your workout and does support your fitness goals in an incredible way.

If you have ever used wall towers at a Pilates studio, or experienced spring work on the Cadillac, then you will be familiar with the Pilates Springboard; and you’ll also notice the incredible amount of space you’ll save.

Of course, there are a couple of exercises that cannot be done in the same way that you would if you were using the wall tower or the Cadillac, but the majority of Pilates exercises (for said equipment) can be done with the Springboard. I’ll get to the details on minor limitations soon. *and these minor limitations are incredibly minor.

What Exercises Can You Do with the Pilates Springboard / Push Through Bar?

You can do just about any Pilates exercise that you’d do with leg springs, arm springs, and the roll up bar. Balanced Body offers many free online videos showing you specific Pilates exercises and routines that can be done with the Springboard. Be sure to look through the video catalog to find what you are interested in.

If you purchase the push through bar – which is sold separately from the Springboard, then you can add even more exercises; but this is where the slight limitation comes in. More on that in a moment. If you order the push through bar at the same time as ordering the springboard, then you receive a discount. It’s well worth it to add this extra equipment to your purchase. The additional exercises you can do with the push through bar are worth it!

What Exercises Can’t You Do?

OK here we are! Honestly, there aren’t many that come to mind. If you’ve used the Wall / Mat Tower or the Cadillac at a Pilates studio before, then you’ll know that when it comes to the Push Through Bar, you’re able to push the bar forward. This allows you to do some reaches and stretches such a a forward bend beyond the mat / tower unit. With the Springboard, you are only able to reach to the point of the wall. For the most part, that is more than enough and even farther than many of us are able to reach anyway.

There are also some exercises that you may have done on the Cadillac or Wall Tower where you’ve used an extender / head rest so to be able to position your body past the edge of the mat portion. (see image above) This is not to say that you can’t still do the exercises with the Springboard, but you simply aren’t able to reach beyond the wall – and that is OK! Not having the ability to use the head rest/ extender is a mild limitation.

More importantly, there are countless exercises that you CAN DO with this wall equipment! I encourage you to view the numerous videos that are shared on the Balanced Body website. Be sure to look for Springboard exercises, Wall Tower, and Cadillac exercises to find what you are looking for. *see links below for guidance.

Pilates Education and helpful links!

• Pilates for YOUR sport
• What is Pilates?
• Workout Videos
• Pilates Video Library

Why are Pilates Springboard / Push Through Bar Exercises Important for Your Health and Fitness?

Exercise in general is good for us! A variety of movement, modalities, outdoor fresh air cardio; and various styles of strength training is without a doubt good for everyone. But, what makes the Pilates Springboard exercises stand out from other forms of exercise?

It’s Not Just for Dancers or Pilates Peeps!

• Strength
• Conditioning
• Lengthen / Posture
• Flexibility
• Balance / Coordination
• Mental Focus
• Reconnect to fullness of breath
• Strong Core
• Increased Energy
• Stress Reliever
• Better Alignment / posture
• Increase Body Awareness
• Enhancement of athletic abilities!!!

Pilates itself is an incredible practice for conditioning. If you are a runner, a cyclist, dancer, football player, golfer, non-athletic, artists, jeweler, preventing injury, recovering from injury, mobile, human-being – Pilates is a wonderful modality to support your well-being.

Of course you can do Pilates without any equipment, however if you’ve never experienced the support you get while using Pilates springs (be it on a Reformer, or a Cadillac), you’re in for a treat!

Depending on where you place the springs on the Springboard, and depending on which spring strength you use (red – heavy duty, blue – medium, yellow – lightest), you can modify the amount of resistance needed for each exercise.

If you’re aiming for gentle therapeutic training, adjust the springs accordingly and start with a lighter resistance. If you’re looking to maximize strength and resistance, use the red springs or a combination of different springs to adjust.

Making the Pilates Springboard and Push Through Bar a part of your standard and daily fitness routine is sure to enhance your overall strength, flexibility, coordination, and alignment. The more consistent you are with these exercises, the greater your positive changes will be. If you have any further questions about whether or not Pilates is right for you please reach out to me. I’ve been teaching Pilates and healthy moving for over 15 years.

Another Positive Note About the Pilates Springboard –

The Springboard is a space saver! It takes up no space (besides wall space and ensuring there is enough room on the floor for you to lay down to perform the Pilates exercises.

The Springboard is also elegant! The equipment is easy on the eyes and invites encouraging conversations for those who have never seen it before.
“What is that strange fixture you have on your wall?” – “Well, let me show you!” and Boom! Just like that you are converted into a Pilates believer 🙂

Don’t you want to inspire others around you to get on board with healthy living!? 🙂

Quality Pilates Equipment in Your Home for a Lower Price –

The Balanced Body Pilates Springboard is available to you at a more affordable price than some of the other quality Pilates equipment such as the Wall Tower or Cadillac. For a fraction of the cost, you can have the excellence of Pilates spring resistance in your own home.

This is a great choice for those who want the capability of doing your own Pilates exercises at home, as well as having the capability of practicing Pilates spring exercises in between studio sessions.

If you’re a Pilates instructor, the Springboard is an excellent and more affordable choice for your own home studio for self practice and for sessions with clients.

Balanced Body Pilates Springboard: $445

Balanced Body Springboard with Push Through Bar: $745

Visit Balanced Body for more details on the Balanced Body Springboard and Push Through Bar.

How Easy Is It To Set Up The Pilates Springboard?

Somewhat easy – provided you have the tools and a helping hand. It’s definitely not hard, but certainly not easy.

You will need to have some specific tools to help you get started. Once you find a space in your home, you’ll need to measure out enough space for you to be able to have proper floor access when doing the exercises. Once you know that, then you must find where the studs in the wall are. If you do not find studs or if you must install your Pilates Springboard in an area without studs, you CAN STILL INSTALL IT SUCCESSFULLY! But you will need to get specialty dry wall screws that are designed for this very purpose.

Luckily Balanced Body Pilates offers some extra help with assembly needs. Visit their website for any detailed installation questions!

Required Tools to Install Your Balanced Body Pilates Springboard:

• Measuring Tape
• Ladder or Step Stool / Chair
• Stud Finder – Oo-la-la 😉
• Drill
• Drill bits
• Wrench 7/16th
• Extra helping hand!
• Level (not vital, but helpful)

Happy Installation and may your movement uplift you!

Let us know how you like your Pilates Springboard and share with us any feedback with the installation process as well as how your body feels after moving with the Springboard! We value your feedback!

Cheers to your health and wellbeing! May Pilates enhance your athletic pursuits!

The post Balanced Body – Pilates Springboard / Push Through Bar appeared first on Gear Mashers.

The Balanced Body Allegro 2 Reformer is one exceptional machine. Hands down, the Allegro 2 stands apart from all other Pilates reformers.

No matter what kind of athlete you are, whether you are a professional athlete, movement aficionado, Pilates beginner or master, or someone looking for overall wellness – quality matters! The quality of the equipment you invest in has an impact on the quality of your movement and progress. The Balanced Body Allegro 2 beams with – QUALITY!!!

OUR VERDICT

There are a handful of Pilates reformers on the market today that you can choose from, and from our perspective, the Balanced Body Allegro 2 reformer tops them all. Its smoothness, elegance, and innovations raise the bar for Pilates equipment.

Note: The Allegro 2 with optional legs is well worth the upgrade.

Upgrade your Allegro 2 Reformer with Legs –

• provides more space for storage beneath
• offers raised height that allows more range of motion for certain exercises that require more space: lunges, side extensions when using the sitting box.
• If you plan to store this equipment on its side, you will need to order the wheel kit.
• leg extensions are SOLIDLY secure!

The Allegro 2 reformer is an incredible work of modern engineering and architecture. I can’t help but think of the Guggenheim museum 😉

Aside from the architectural comparison, The Allegro 2 Reformer’s innovative design allows you to upgrade your traditional Pilates reformer routine. Not only is this reformer sleek and solidly built; it is a quality machine that will support your body’s incredible transformation with consistent practice. Check out this fun video for a peek at the many ways you can have fun on this equipment.

Is it a boy? Is it a girl? It’s an Allegro 2 Reformer!

I couldn’t be prouder 🙂 What a moment when I first unboxed this beauty.

The Allegro 2 Reformer, along with jump-board, and sitting box lite, arrived altogether. Each box was professionally packaged and wrapped securely. In the past, I had ordered a Balanced Body Pilates Springboard and Push Through Bar, and the top notch packaging remains to be consistent. Balanced Body Pilates does a fantastic job of ensuring that quality is not limited to their actual product, but the quality goes into their packaging, delivery, and customer service!

While I was able to assemble the Allegro 2 by myself, I did need the help of my husband to help with the unboxing and placement. We have been gradually building out a garage gym and have placed incredibly durable long lasting mats on the floor. (we recommend horse stall mats – you can find them at most tractor supply stores). As for the delivery, You can see how much foam the packaging contains. Helpful tip: Use some of the foam to prop up areas when assembling the foot-bar.

All necessary tools and hardware came with this purchase. Look over the assembly brochure to double check that you have everything you need.

The underside of the Allegro 2 reformer is quite impressive! I marvel at the engineering that goes into building a machine like this. Not to worry, the underbelly of this Pilates machine was already put together with everything in tact.

You’ll also notice the careful protective tape, styrofoam packing, as well as some plastic holders (not easily seen in photo) are all in place to protect the product during transit. You can trust that your Balanced Body Pilates products are cared for every step of the way!

And now…. let the assembling begin!

I DID IT ALL BY MYSELF!!!! (well, almost)

Allegro 2 Reformer Review Assembly

The shipment of this Pilates reformer is quite heavy. Fortunately, we had our delivered directly into a cleared space in our garage gym. You will likely need an extra helping hand to move this machine to your ideal location.

All hardware and tools came with the delivery.

For assistance in putting your machine together, I found a Helpful youtube video in addition to the provided assembly instruction brochure. You can also make use of Balanced Body Customer service for assistance in setting up your equipment.

While I put together the Allegro 2 mostly by myself within 3 hours (This would have been faster without taking photos documenting the process. And… I also will admit that while there were two brochures on how to assemble the machine, I did not realize I had the full detailed brochure until I was nearly finished with full assembly – OOPS!) Well, at least the brief brochure along with a helpful youtube video were clear enough for me to follow along. What I’m saying is, assembling this product was not as intimidating as I anticipated it to be. It was also kind of exciting and rewarding to be able to be part of the process of making this incredible machine a reality in my daily world 🙂


Points to be on the look out for while assembling your Allegro 2

Use the provided foam to help prop up the machine.

Follow instructions!

Inspect the bottom for any extra foam, tape, or small plastic place holders, or elastic that needs to be removed before continuing.

An extra hand does help for the initial placement and turning onto its side when called for.

Have patience when installing the foot-bar. Watch videos, read instructions, and have patience. You will get it!

The reformer also comes with a detailed brochure, as well as a warranty form.

Overall, I was quite impressed with how Balanced Body boxed up the Allegro 2 and the overall packaging for everything else.

Balanced Body Allegro 2 Reformer Review

If you are looking for a top quality, long lasting Pilates reformer, the Allegro 2 is a must! After 15 years of teaching Pilates and experiencing numerous Pilates reformers, I find this one to be the best!

Innovated – Adjustable Foot-bar

Let’s get right to it. What stands out the most for this machine, compared to other Pilates reformers, is the adjustable sliding foot-bar. This truly is a game changer! It’s easy to move, it is secure once in place, and a wide array of new exercises on the reformer are now real possibilities.

• Foot-bar (at traditional location) has 3 settings: low, medium, vertical / straight.
• Sliding foot-bar slides to multiple clearly marked sections along the length of the reformer.
• Foot-bar adjustments accommodate different body sizes – including children.

The bar is uniform from top to side to bottom. To protect it from wear and tare, I covered it with a white cabinet liner that I cut to size. You can also purchase a foot-bar cover from Balanced Body. They have cushioned and un-cushioned versions. I’m ok with the DIY version I have, but my version is rather flimsy and is frequently moving around.

Straps | Adjustability

The Allegro 2 reformer has an improved strap system – Soft Touch Rope System. This makes adjusting the straps so much easier. There is a pulley tucked away near the head-rest, so you can even make adjustments while lying down. You can adjust one rope at a time, or both at the same time. At first, I didn’t think this was going to be ‘all that’, but once I experienced it for myself, I am impressed and satisfied with this innovation. It’s a time saver compared to other versions on different reformers.

Another bonus feature with these straps is the soft touch. The foot loops are soft for sure, but the entire rope system is without any clanky hardware; so when you’re moving around, the entire experience is much more quiet than when moving on other traditional reformers.

Jump-board

The jump-board is an accessory that you can buy. It’s a great addition for an overall workout that adds cardio, plyometric support, and extra fun to your routine.

This jump-board is big! It’s got a good width to it, so you won’t feel cramped.

As you can see in the photo, there are two handles that allow for ease in moving it around.

This is one of the easiest foot-bars I’ve worked with. You simply move the foot-bar out of the way (either to its lowest diagonal setting, or slide the bar mid way or all the way to the other end of the reformer. If you watch the video, you’ll be able to see how placing the foot-bar mid-way at the carriage, you can use it as a hand placement while jumping. It provides a bit more support as you have fun with jumps.

I almost didn’t purchase the jump-board because I thought the reformer along with the sitting box lite would be enough; but I’m glad I did. The jump-board adds a powerful dynamic to your Pilates routine.

If you need extra cushioning to the jump-board, you can purchase a cushion for it. I find that this jump-board is sturdy, mild cushion, and I don’t need anymore; but if you have specific needs for more layering, then it may be worth it.

Sitting Box Lite

Another great purchase! I love the sitting box lite! I love it because it’s light weight and I can move it around the house or easily take it to clients.

It also has an underbelly that is sectioned off so to match up with the shoulder rests when placed length-wise, or side ways. This feature offers more stability and prevents the box from sliding all over the place.

Having a sitting box (lite or traditional) is a no brainer. More exercise choices are added to your routine that will give you a whole body workout as well as offer you more therapeutic support that you might need.

Foot Strap / Adjustability

When you order a sitting box, the foot strap will come with your purchase. I almost overlooked this feature and thought I could do with out it. But I looked close and am pleased with the simplicity in this design. You can see in the photo that the foot strap loop can slide easily into different ‘hooked’ settings. If you’re familiar with other reformers and their foot strap system, this one offers ease and finesse.

Accessories

This bonus pad adds support and protection to my hands when placed at the foot-board. It’s also helpful when doing standing work. It stays in place and does the job.

Springs Enhancement

Last but not least, a small new feature that comes with the Allegro 2, are these spring collars. These little guys are actually a great feature that makes adjusting the springs easier and more gentle to the touch. It was a feature I nearly overlooked, but I think this is a great touch that people will appreciate.

FEATURES

Allegro 2 Reformer Specifications

Weight: 140 lbs (64kg) or 146 lbs (66kg) with legs.

• Height 9″ (22.5cm) or 15″ (37.5cm) with legs
• Length: 94″ (238cm)
• Width: 25.5″ (65cm)
• Footbar width: 31″ (79cm)
• Carriage width: 23″ (58.4cm)
• Carriage length: 33″ (83.8cm)
• Weight: 140 lbs (64kg) or 146 lbs (66kg) with legs.
• Retail: $3,045 – $3340 (no legs, vs. with legs).
  
  
  

Before I purchased this Allegro 2 reformer, I did research other reformers out there. Once I watched this video that went through all the features of this machine, I was sold. I’m pleased with this purchase and while I had been tempted to go for a lower cost, less featured reformer, I know without a doubt I made the right decision to invest in this quality, beautifully designed, solid piece of equipment. I’m a proud owner of an Allegro 2 reformer – now I just need a personal name for mine 😉

The post Balanced body Allegro 2 Reformer 2024 Review appeared first on Gear Mashers.

Performance wear made differently – with planetary love in mind.

We met Definite Article at the Austin TRE (The Running Event ) in December of 2022. Their booth stood out to us, and specifically their sock lineup. With a clean design and classic features, as well as positive message in both word and action – taking the problems of plastic head on and helping to do something about it, we knew that a Definite Article Sock and apparel review would be an important message to share.

Definite Article is an athletic clothing brand changing the way performance wear is made. Sustainability is what they have in mind. Sustainability of your athletic wear for the time you have it and use it, and sustainability for our planet once we have outworn our athletic clothing. Yes we can have both! Quality clothing and quality care for our planet.

Many athletic clothing lines are made of plastic materials that are not friendly to our planet once the clothing has run its course. They often wind up in landfills and sit there an accumulate more toxic garbage. These fabrics / materials will be on this planet longer than we are alive. Imagine that!

Definite Article does it differently. “Definite Article is the planet’s first biodegradable performance brand.” They use a natural additive called CiCLO during the manufacturing process. This allows the fabrics to break down and specifically biodegrade in “less than 2.5 years when in a landfill, seawater, or soil conditions.”

To learn more about CiCLO, check out the Definite Article FAQ page.

Definite Article Ankle Sock Review –

When I first saw the Definite Article design with their socks, I knew they were something special and something worthy of checking out. They proved me right, and proved to be more than quality looks. I was delighted to do a DA sock review!

Their ankle socks are the best out there in my opinion. I have tried and tested countless athletic socks and have become somewhat…well, very picky on which ankle socks I prefer. Here are the main reasons why I choose Definite Article ankle socks above any other athletic sock out there.

• Not too thick, not too thin. The cushioning is just right. It’s not too thick where feet will sweat excessively, but there is enough cushioning for comfort.
• Breathable / Even Temperature. My feet stay warm without overheating.
• Higher lip around back of ankle. This helps with any harsh rubbing from shoes.
• Anti-slipping / No bunching. The technology and compression keep this sock in place!
• Low cut around sides of ankle – sleek style
• Clean colors / styles – Fun bright color options as well as classic.

If you haven’t had a chance to check out Definite Article socks, check them out! They have other socks as well. No show, and fun classic designed crew socks for men and women!

Definite Article Apparel – Sports Bra

My favorite thing about this sports bra is that while it fits snuggly, it does not feel constraining in any way. This is key for me personally. While I want good support for when I go on a run, or if I’m doing moderate impact workouts, I don’t like to feel smooshed or constricted anywhere. The DA sports bra gives me the support and comfort I need for a workout. It also allows me to wear it comfortably throughout the entire day if I choose to wear it out and about.

All in all, Definite Article has a not just a good thing going – but a truly GOOD and Great thing going on! Their entire apparel line for both Men and Women include excellent socks, shirts, leggings, shorts, and sports bras as well as some jackets. Next time you purchase or put on athletic apparel, ask yourself where will it go once you’re done wearing it well. Sustainable, Biodegradable, and impassioned for our planet – Definite Article – Definitely check them out!

The post Definite Article Sock and Apparel Review (2023) appeared first on Gear Mashers.

There’s a new bar in town… well not so new. They’ve been around since 2011, but they are new to me; in fact, I stumbled upon them at only one grocery store chain here in Austin (Sprouts).  Maybe they’re at other stores, but I have yet to find them.

With dozens of different protein bar brands to choose from, deciding on which one is the best can be difficult.  But I’ll help you out and share with you THE number one Best Protein Bar around!  I’m raising the bar!  I have found no other protein bar that tops the RISE BAR.

What Makes the RISE Bar the best Protein Bar?

• 3-5 ingredients per bar
• Non- GMO ingredients
• USDA certified organic when possible
• Gluten-Free
• Balance of Proteins/carbs/sugars *(too often I find other protein bars with way too much sugar and all sorts of unnecessary ingredients).
• Does not contribute to bellyache like so many protein bars can
• Rise Breakfast and Fruit Bars do contain more ingredients than the protein bars*

SIMPLE INGREDIENTS

• Whey Protein Isolate
• Honey
• Almonds

There are a variety of flavors, and each protein bar contains 3-5 ingredients.  The Honey Almond Rise Bar is my personal favorite with just the three ingredients from above.

If you haven’t already tried the Rise Bar, here’s my advice:

• Raise the Bar…
• Rise the Bar…
• Rise above…
• Be wise – Rise…
• Ahh… JUST EAT IT 🙂

Check out their blog and order your Rise Bar via their site.  Click here.

*I have no affiliation with Rise Bar. I simply am a fan and a Protein Bar Snob… my belly is picky.

The post RISE Bar | Protein Bar Review | The Best Protein Bar Around! appeared first on Gear Mashers.