Feedback On Our New Gratz Archive Reformer
Reviews Provided by Instructors from Renowned Classical Pilates Studio: Real Pilates NYC
Discover expert feedback from instructors at Real Pilates. Learn how this reformer challenges and enhances your practice with its unique dimensions, lighter springs, and historical authenticity, delivering a deeper connection to Joseph Pilates' original vision.
Review of the Archive Reformer by Ann Donohue, Instructor at Real Pilates
"I am an instructor at Alycea Ungaro's Real Pilates and I'd love to share some thoughts on the Archive Reformer you wonderful folks at Gratz have provided :)
I am 5'8", like Joe, so I can feel a huge difference in these intended dimensions. For example, in the Long Stretch series, limiting the range of movement of the carriage makes for a deeper challenge in the powerhouse. Also, in shortspine, the leg angle is higher, closer to 60 degrees, so the apparatus "helps" a whole lot less in getting the hips airborne. It's decidedly more challenging in a fabulous way. The higher footbar makes me LOVE stomach massage! (In my 17 years of teaching, I have never uttered that phrase!) perhaps it is because of my size and Joe's being so similar... it is truly magical :)
Long spine massage is way more challenging, again: the take off point requires more powerhouse to ascend into gravity, which is great- we don't shy from challenge. Also, LOVE the handles. I am really grateful to get to play on such a fabulous apparatus, thank you for all you do preserving this legacy :)"
Review of the Archive Reformer by Bonnie Heyman, Instructor at Real Pilates
"The clients that have been on this beautiful 80” Archival Reformer have had a positive and recurring experience. Their body fits more definitively into the carriage (height approximately 60 - 68") and the springs resisting require a challenge to find that “extra inch“. I would say the Short Spine is the exercise which encompasses the total experience."
Review of the Archive Reformer by Jessica Gilbert, Instructor at Real Pilates
"I love the archive reformer--I actually ask to use it. It's been a few weeks since I've used it last but here are a few recollections. I've noticed some clear differences that I find add value to my practice.
The foot bar - it's shaped differently with a flat top--more comfortable and thus easier for me to focus on footwork.
It's smaller and seems to have lighter springs which has a couple of impacts. You have to focus on control more. For several exercises it makes you get deeper into your core because you can't use the weight of the springs to push against when your legs are moving overhead.
I seem to recall it has less padding on the carriage which gives you more feel for how your back is aligning/engaging. I'm better at keeping my shoulders divorced from my ears (they have a love/hate relationship). Again, big fan! Thanks for bringing it back."
Gratz Archive Reformer: AVAILABLE NOW
The Gratz Archive Reformer is an amalgam unit with parts that were made throughout the past and are now available again. We have combined and curated these for our Gratz Pilates Ultra Enthusiasts to truly mean “what’s old is new again” Elevate your Pilates practice with the Gratz Archive Aluminum Reformer—designed for enthusiasts who seek authenticity, precision, and challenge in their workouts!
Select from our premium handle options: Standard Aluminum & Wood Handles, Leather & Wood Handles, Gratz Archive Traditional Stainless Steel Wire Handles, or Aluminum and Wood Trapezoidal Handles. Additionally, choose from a pair of Thin or Thick Black Rubber Pads for added comfort and support.
About Real Pilates NYC:
For years, Real Pilates has been at the forefront of the industry with one-of-a-kind training programs and signature classes. They train apprentices to become exceptional teachers and empower students to take control of their own physical journeys. They collaborate with studio owners and entrepreneurs, nurturing the next generation of Pilates studios that inspire and transform lives.
They're here to inspire students to greatness, teachers to excellence, and the entire Pilates community to evolve and thrive. Please read more about their page here