The IM=X® Xercizer is a unique patented version of the Pilates Reformer. Designed by female entrepreneur Elyse McNergney, it was designed with a variety of unique features that have helped it stand out in the market and withstand the test of time. In today’s blog, we’ll explore each of the unique elements of the Xercizer and why pilates franchise owners refer to it as the “Ferrari of Reformers.”
Let’s start at the footbar. Around the time that the Xercizer was invented, there were many reported incidents of injury due to the non-locking footbar of many standard versions of the reformer. With safety as an integral goal in the design of the Xercizer, a footbar was designed with three secure settings (adjustable according to height). The same settings are used for the jumpboard, another updated element on the Xercizer. Where some reformers have jumpboards with small surfaces, The IM=X® jumpboard has a large and durable surface designed for prolonged periods of plyometrics, allowing IM=X® workouts to incorporate Interval Training and HIIT formats while keeping joints safe and healthy due to the low-impact nature of jumping horizontally.
Working our way up the Xercizer, next we come to the springs, the most beneficial feature when it comes to strength-training. The Xercizer features one of the heaviest spring-loads on the market, allowing for advanced clients and athletes to achieve maximum results by working at increased resistance. Strength-training is a unique component of IM=X® Pilates, and the Xercizer allows clients to reach their strength goals quicker than with traditional reformers. The springs are versatile enough to provide the perfect challenge for any client with modifications available to all (based on experience, injuries, or limitations) providing the perfect combination of body weight and resistance.
The carriage itself is wider and longer, making it more comfortable and accessible for all shapes and sizes. The carriage also glides along the top of the side rails, allowing for more variety of movement and greater comfort. The carriage features a flat headrest, ideal for developing perfect posture without flattening the spine’s natural curves, particularly when working at increased resistance. The shoulder rolls on the carriage are adjustable to four different settings, allowing for wider and taller clients to find the perfect fit, and can be completely removed to allow for prone movement on the carriage as well.
This brings us to another unique feature of the Xercizer, the lumbar support. The lumbar support is a flat and stable surface that can replace the shoulder rolls for support in seated positions, as well as a flat surface for the feet to press against in many flexibility, gluteal and abdominal sequences. It is also an excellent tool for clients with spinal injuries or low back pain.
Finally, making our way up to the top of the machine, you will find adjustable ropes that can be shortened or lengthened as needed, and separate handles and foot-loops. The latest manufacturing update, vinyl foot loops are now available for easier cleaning and added hygiene.
One last feature of the Xercizer is the opportunity to utilize the add-on Platform feature, which converts the Xercizer to a standing platform for an advanced workout that targets the glutes, thighs and core, while adding hand weights for upper-body toning.
The Xercizer is made of all steel and aluminum construction and the upholstery is mostly vinyl for added durability and hygiene. Built to withstand heavy usage, most Xercizers have been in constant use in IM=X studios for close to a decade and continue to deliver superior results to clients of all shapes and sizes.