How The Pilates Arc Offers Versatility to Any Workout

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If you haven't tried the Pilates Arc and are interested in the many benefits, read on! Weighing only a few ounces, the Pilates Arc helps develop eccentric strength, flexibility, and overall body balance. Let's explore the benefits of the Arc and how it can enhance your body's overall well-being.

The Pilates Arc is a fascinating apparatus that took the existing Joseph Pilates original design and adapted it for contemporary use. The product is user-friendly for a variety of body types for any Pilates novice or expert. It adds variety and challenge to any home, mat, circuit training, or group class.


Let's Talk Design

The Pilates Arc features three distinct points of design: 1) the arc 2) the well 3) the step. The arc has a gentle curve on one side and a steeper curve on the other, allowing for the accommodation of different body parts during exercise. Handholds come with a cut-out or attached side design on the sides of the arc to help stabilize the body when doing inverted exercises. The well typically serves as a base or trough for the user to sit in either sideways or facing away from the arc to facilitate the classic roll down or side sit up. The well also creates a place to practice getting into a supported C-curve of the spine to target spinal flexion and challenge the abdominals. The step is versatile and can be used as a base for the hands or feet to create stability during multiple types of exercises or it can be removed which turns the entire Pilates Arc into a rocking apparatus. With the step removed the Arc can be flipped onto its rounded curve and used as a relaxation tool for rocking or for an advanced challenge to exercises like the standard plank.


Arc Variety

Several Arc designs are available on today's market and construction, weight, price, and dimensions vary among them. Some Arcs have more sharp curves, which might work well for clients with more flexibility—other Arcs have more elongated curves that are best suited for less flexible, taller users.


Benefits of the Arc:

  • Increases core strength and stability

  • Improves the mobility of the spine

  • Strengthens the upper body

  • Develops balance and coordination


3-in-1 Exercise Tool

The Pilates Arc works wonderfully as a standalone piece of equipment, or it can be used in combination with other equipment:

  • A Classic Spine Corrector. The most traditional way to use the Pilates Arc is to take advantage of the curves of the Arc that support and match the spine to allow for greater comfort and ease with classic exercises like the roll down. Users will appreciate the Arc’s undeniable comfort and ergonomics.

  • An Exercise Arc. With the step removed the Arc becomes a rocking apparatus. Featuring a delicate curve on one side and a steeper curve on the other, its distinctive, tilted shape makes it multi-purposeful for a variety of users. 

  • A Wedge. The Arc serves as a wedge for the Reformer. It is designed to easily slide onto the shoulder rests and provides back support and stability for individuals that may need more support when using the reformer. It can also facilitate a variety of strength and mobility challenges for the advanced user.  


No matter which type of Pilates Arc you experience, you can be assured that you will discover a variety of fun and healing movements. If you are interested in trying the Pilates Arc or wanting to add Pilates equipment into your fitness routine or rehabilitation plan, book a Private Pilates Session with one of our excellent instructors. 

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