Conditioning · Pilates
Reformer Jump
The Reformer Jump is a lying-down jump from a Pilates jumpboard against spring resistance. It trains leg power, controlled landings, and trunk stability.
- Intermediate
- Compound
- Moderate injury risk
- Rest 45 sec
How to do it
- Lie on your back on the carriage with your head supported and shoulders against the shoulder rests.
- Place your feet hip-width apart on the jumpboard, parallel, with your knees bent.
- Push through both feet to propel the carriage away until your feet leave the board.
- Land on the balls of your feet with softly bent knees.
- Lower your heels toward the board.
- Bend your knees farther to absorb the landing as the carriage returns to your starting position.
Form cues
- Track knees over your middle toes.
- Push evenly through both feet.
- Keep breathing throughout the set.
Common mistakes
- Jumping too farShorten the jump so your pelvis stays settled and your lower back does not arch during flight.
- Carriage slamming on returnSlow the final part of the return through controlled knee bending rather than letting the springs pull you into the stop.
- Lifting your head to watchKeep your gaze upward instead of craning your neck toward your feet.
Safety
Hard landings or poorly controlled spring recoil can strain your ankles, knees, or lower back. An unsecured jumpboard can shift under your feet.
- Check that the jumpboard is locked in place and the springs are securely attached before starting.
- Have a qualified Pilates professional select spring resistance and confirm the carriage setup; lighter springs are not automatically easier.
- Start with small practice jumps before building a continuous set.
- End the set if fatigue prevents consistent foot placement or controlled landings.
If you have foot, ankle, knee, or back pain, use nonjumping carriage presses or ask a physiotherapist whether jumping is appropriate.
Muscles worked
Primary muscles
Secondary muscles
Equipment
- Pilates Jumpboard
- Pilates Reformer
Sets and reps
- Sets
- 2–3
- Target
- 10–15 reps
- Rest
- 45 sec
Count each jump and landing as one rep.