[16 of 16 customers found this review helpful]

Stamina Products Stamina Pilates Performer 4500 Review

Great machine for toning at home

"I have been taking pilates reformer classes at a private studio for about a year but these classes can be quite expensive so I was searching for a reformer I could use in my apartment to add to my weekly routine. I decided to review this product because there really aren't many out there for this model which worried me when I ordered it. I just received it and it is wonderful! I ordered it [...]and it arrived [...]. I would recommend this machine to anyone who is fairly in shape and wants to tone up. This machine wouldn't be as beneficial for building bulk and for strong competitive athletes. I love pilates and I am petite in size so I just need some resistance toning. I plan on incorporating this with my cardio and pilates class. My only complaint is that the handles should have a place to clip the excess cord when tightened. The instructions tell you to wrap it around the plastic piece which can come loose if not tied tight enough. Studio reformers have the excess cord at the bottom of the machine and out of the way and have a metal clasp rather than plastic for the handles. [$] I would also like to comment on the 3 cord construction. I was worried I would need the 4 cord Stamina Pilates Premier XP but it turns out you really need multiple levels of tension rather than 4 of the same tension cords. I like that this machine has 2 regular cords and 1 power cord. For many of my exercises, 1 regular cord wasn't enough and 2 was too much so I tend to use the 1 power cord. The only time I require all 3 cords is when I have my feet in the handles and do leg exercises. When I outgrow this level of resistance, I can purchase an additional power cord and replace 1 of the regular cords. The machine is made of steel and very sturdy and it glides smoothly and quietly except for when I am doing the leg exercises in the handles with all 3 tension cords. During those few exercises there tends to be some low noise coming from the machine but this even happens on the studio reformers. Lastly, I would suggest that customers try pilates at a studio before doing it at home. I don't plan on using the videos because I know the various exercises from practicing them every week at class. This allows you to learn more advanced exercises and with proper body alignment so that you can apply them at home. Although you can watch the video, it helps to have a teacher present who can see your posture in a way that you cannot see yourself. I hope my detailed review helps those of you interested in pilates!"