While there are many pilates machines available, the two most popular right now are the traditional Pilates Reformer and the new Malibu Pilates chair. These are two completely different machines and offer different benefits. Below I will give you my list of pros and cons for each machine.

Malibu Pilates – this a relatively new pilates machine for the public. The designer of pilates, Joseph Pilate, originally used a chair many years ago, but this is the first time there has been a chair type machine marketed for the public. This machine comes with two videos (another video is offered with an upgrade). Both videos focus on strength training and the added benefit of cardio. Pilates exercises usually are done for flexibility and core strength and cardio isn’t usually part of the work out. The exercises are simple to do yet extremely effective. Like all pilates workouts, the exercises focus on building core strength, but in a different way on the chair. You can reach muscles using the chair that you normally wouldn’t work. The chair is very stable but some exercises take a little time to get used to.

Pros – comes with a basic 20 minute video and an advanced 45 minute video, it is easy to put together. 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. Some exercises having you on the chair and 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. There isn’t any cardio involved and is a more laid back approach to pilates as opposed to the Malibu Pilates chair.

Pros – You can purchase videos that you show you how to use your machine and get the most out of it. This is a great machine to use if you need to strengthen your back and stretch out your lower back muscles. It is easy to use and builds strength quickly while toning your body. It easily slides under a bed out of the way when you are finished using it.

Cons – you don’t get a cardiovascular work out.

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.