There are many pilates machines on the market today but the two most popular are the Malibu Pilates chair and the Pilates Performer. These machines are very different and each offers their own 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. Joseph Pilate (the designer of pilates) used a chair to do his pilates years ago but this is the first main stream, easily available to the public pilates chair. When you buy Malibu Pilates, you get two videos and have the option to upgrade and get a third video. These videos focus on how to get a good workout using the chair. Pilates is typically known for its strength and flexibility workouts so to add in cardio is almost unheard of. The exercises are simple to do yet extremely effective. The workouts are typical of all pilates workouts because they focus on the core but the way the exercises are performed is very different than any standard pilates workout. 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 - easy to assemble, comes with a 20 minute video and a more advanced 45 minute video. The exercises work arms, legs, and core muscles. Includes a good cardio workout. Stores easily because it folds up. If you’re bored with normal pilates this is a fun alternative.

Cons - when you first start, it can be hard to figure out some of the exercises. Several have you almost standing on the chair, 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. It’s a lay down machine that focuses on doing exercises slowly. There isn’t any cardio involved and is a more laid back approach to pilates as opposed to the Malibu Pilates chair.

Pros - There are lots of videos you can buy to help you get the most out of the machine. It does a great job of strengthening your lower back and stretching your muscles. The pilates performer is easy to use and strengthens and tones your body quickly. It can slide under your bed if you have room there.

Cons - it doesn’t offer any cardio workout.

Which machine you choose will be a product of how you want to exercise. You get a good strength and flexibility workout with both machines so they either one is a good choice.

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.