Pilates is known for building strength, improving flexibility and developing overall body awareness. With the right equipment, those benefits can be deepened and adapted to meet a wider range of needs. Enter the dynamic duo of the Merrithew® Reformer and Cardio-Tramp® Rebounder: a powerful pairing that blends the control and precision of Pilates with cardio intensity, muscular endurance and functional conditioning.
This month, we are spotlighting the Cardio-Tramp Rebounder with a curated selection of Exercise of the Month features that showcase innovative ways to use this versatile Reformer add-on. Whether you are training athletes, working with active agers or enhancing your own fitness routine, these exercises offer dynamic, functional workout options for every client level.
Key Benefits
The Cardio-Tramp Rebounder turns the Pilates Reformer into a multi-dimensional fitness machine. Here’s what it brings to the table:
- Dynamic Cardiovascular Conditioning: Add interval-style training to your Pilates programming.
- Joint-Friendly Plyometrics: A low-impact surface for rebounding exercises that challenge stability and power.
- Scalable for All Levels: Great for athletic clients, rehab populations or older adults with modifications.
- Versatile Programming: Seamlessly integrates into strength training, functional movement and even post-rehab protocols.
Cardio-Tramp Rebounder for Arm Press
Guided by Caroline Murray, Merrithew Lead Instructor Trainer, this exercise comes from the STOTT PILATES® Athletic Conditioning on the Cardio-Tramp Rebounder workshop, which was designed to stimulate both cardiovascular and muscular effectiveness. This variation challenges core stability while increasing upper-body strength through powerful arm presses against the tension of the Reformer. Combined with dynamic rebounding, it engages both fast-twitch muscle fibers and postural control, ideal for athletic clients and those seeking metabolic conditioning. Try out this exercise and see how it can elevate your practice.
Why it works: Adds intensity, promotes upper-body power and boosts cardiovascular endurance.
Cardio-Tramp Rebounder for Strength Building with Flex-Band®
Led by Saulo Ouverney, Merrithew Lead Instructor Trainer, this exercise expands what's possible on the Reformer and helps diversify your classes. In this advanced combo, the Flex-Band is used to layer resistance and control during leg presses and upper-body movements. It targets both lower and upper body simultaneously, increasing muscle activation while reinforcing the STOTT PILATES Principles as control, breath and alignment. Add this exercise to your toolkit and bring more variety and challenge to your practice.
Why it works: Encourages full-body engagement and scalable strength development.
Bring Merrithew Innovation to Your Studio or Home Practice
Whether you’re upgrading your studio offerings or looking for a way to get more from your personal Pilates practice, the Cardio-Tramp Rebounder and Reformer combination offers unmatched versatility. You’ll be able to tailor workouts for a wide range of clients, from beginners to high-performing athletes, all while keeping sessions fun, challenging and goal-driven. Start your journey today and unlock the full potential of your Pilates practice!