One of the most common misconceptions about Reformer Pilates is that the springs simply make exercises harder or easier.
In reality, the springs do far more than provide resistance.
They teach control, alignment, stability and body awareness, making them one of the most valuable tools in the Pilates method.
What Makes Pilates Springs Different?
Unlike traditional gym equipment, Pilates springs create resistance in both directions.
As the spring stretches, your muscles work to overcome the resistance. This is known as the concentric phase, where the muscle shortens while producing force.
As the spring returns, your muscles continue working to control the movement. This is known as the eccentric phase, where the muscle lengthens under tension.
The result is continuous muscular engagement throughout the entire exercise.
Why Pilates Feels Different to Traditional Strength Training
Many strength-training exercises focus on the effort phase and place less emphasis on the return.
In Reformer Pilates, both phases matter equally.
You are required to:
- Push with control
- Return with control
- Maintain alignment throughout
- Stay connected to your core
This constant demand for precision is one of the reasons Pilates develops such effective functional strength.
Why Lighter Springs Can Be More Challenging
Many people assume heavier springs create a harder workout.
Interestingly, the opposite is often true.
When spring tension is reduced, the body receives less support from the equipment. This means your stabilising muscles must work harder to control movement and maintain alignment.
Your core becomes responsible for creating stability rather than relying on external support.
This is why advanced Reformer exercises such as:
- Long Stretch
- Up Stretch
- Side Bend Series
are often performed with lighter spring settings.
The Springs Are Constantly Giving Feedback
Pilates springs act as a conversation between the equipment and your body.
They immediately reveal:
- Imbalances
- Loss of control
- Poor alignment
- Inefficient movement patterns
This feedback helps students develop greater awareness and precision over time.
In many ways, the springs become a teacher.
The Bigger Picture
Understanding spring resistance is one of the keys to understanding Pilates itself. The springs are not simply there to make an exercise more difficult. They are designed to challenge stability, improve coordination and teach efficient movement patterns that transfer into daily life.
Through consistent practice, students develop:
- Stronger core muscles
- Better balance
- Improved coordination
- Greater body awareness
- Functional strength for everyday activities
The next time you step onto a Reformer, remember that the springs are doing more than providing resistance. They are teaching your body how to move with strength, control and precision. And sometimes, the lightest spring creates the greatest challenge.
Discover Reformer Pilates at Nova Pilates
At Nova Pilates Studio in Weltevreden Park, Johannesburg, our instructors help clients understand not just how to perform an exercise, but why it works.
Experience the difference that intentional movement and expert guidance can make.
Book your first Reformer Pilates class today.