There are many pilates machines on the market today but the two most popular are the Malibu Pilates chair and the Pilates Performer. These machines are very different and each offers their own benefits. Below is a review of each machine and its pros and cons.

Malibu Pilates – this is a new design for a pilates machine that can be used in your home. Joseph Pilate (the designer of pilates) used a chair to do his pilates years ago but this is the first main stream, easily available to the public pilates chair. This machine comes with two videos (another video is offered with an upgrade). These videos focus on how to get a good workout using the chair. Pilates is typically known for its strength and flexibility workouts so to add in cardio is almost unheard of. The exercises are simple to do yet extremely effective. The workouts are typical of all pilates workouts because they focus on the core but the way the exercises are performed is very different than any standard pilates workout. Using the chair you reach muscles you wouldn’t be able to reach otherwise. The chair is very stable but some exercises take a little time to get used to.

Pros – easy to assemble, comes with a 20 minute video and a more advanced 45 minute video. The exercises work arms, legs, and core muscles. Includes a good cardio workout. Folds easily for storage. New, fun variation to doing pilates.

Cons – some exercises look a little intimidating. Several have you almost standing on the chair, bending over. While the chair is very stable, it can make you feel like you might fall over when you do some of the exercises.

Pilates Performer – this is a more traditional pilates machine. You lay down in the machine and do exercises in a controlled manner. The exercises are slow and controlled so you don’t get a cardio workout like with the Malibu Pilates chair.

Pros – There are lots of videos you can buy to help you get the most out of the machine. It does a great job of strengthening your lower back and stretching your muscles. It is easy to use and builds strength quickly while toning your body. It can slide under your bed if you have room there.

Cons – it doesn’t offer any cardio workout.

Which machine you choose will be a product of how you want to exercise. Both offer strength training and flexibility exercises and both are easily put away out of sight when you’re finished using them.

When combined with proper health supplements like the acai berry, the Malibu Pilates machine can help you lose a bunch of weight and get healthy.