The Chicago segment of Balanced Body’s Pilates on Tour conference went off with a bang. Amidst the fabulous educational offerings the latest product in the Balanced Body equipment line, the Core Fitness Roller was debuted for conference attendees and instructors to view and sample. I was able to catch up to Core Fitness Roller inventor Darya Bronston to find out more about the Core Fitness Roller. Below is a look at what this examiner learned about this new and exciting product.
YB: What is the CoreFitnessRoller?
DB: The CoreFitnessRoller utilizes the convex shape of a roller and stabilizing wedges. This base is combined with a variable resistance pulley system to create a unique multipurpose piece of equipment which provides a variety of exercise applications including strength training, balance and coordination training, refined core integration, cardio and myofascial release options. The pulley system is made up of independent weights which like free weights, reinforces cross body effort and increases the horizontal balance challenge; while the stabilized roller provides vertical balance challenges. The Core Fitness Roller was invented by Darya Bronston to meet the need for a lightweight, full bodied, exercise system appropriate for trainers and clients and of all ages, abilities and skill levels.
YB: How did you come up with this new workout format?
DB: The CoreFitnessRoller was created as a versatile piece of equipment where users could apply current exercise modalities in dynamic ways as well as to create opportunity for new and complex movement patterns and exercise options. The combination of the unstable surface, variable resistance, wide range of motion and many body positions add up to an entirely new exercise system. The CFR can be used to support a variety of workout formats from Pilates based programming to personal training, group exercise, sports specific training and applications within rehabilitation. It is a straightforward piece of equipment with a limitless array of exercises applications. Programming have already been developed for dancers, Pilates based formats, functional movement, group exercise and personal training.
YB: As a massage therapist you are familiar with self myofascial release is the CoreFitnessRoller designed to provide SMR while eliciting strength and stabilization during exercise?
DB: The CFR can be used in the same way as any other roller but the addition of the pulleys turns the CFR into a full bodied exercise machine in the same category as a Pilates Reformer or the Total Gym.
YB: What are some of the benefits of a CoreFitnessRoller Workout?
DB: The CoreFitnessRoller Workout is good for developing strength, flexibility, balance and coordination. In addition, the stabilized roller provides an unusual platform for aerobic and plyometric exercises. The simplicity of the machine creates an endless array of exercise possibilities.
YB: Can you provide some information about specific Pilates exercises and how the CoreFitnessRoller can be used.
DB: The CoreFitnessRoller can provide resistance or support for many of the Pilates Mat and Reformer exercises. Approximately 80% of the Pilates exercises can be performed on the CFR creating a different experience and a new challenge for current Pilates practitioners. The CFR may provide a low cost alternative to the Reformer allowing small gyms, home users, boot camps and in home personal trainers to use the CFR to introduce Pilates based elements into their sessions.
YB: What opportunities are available for Pilates instructors to be certified in the CoreFitnessRoller method?
DB: Balanced Body is currently developing a training program for the CoreFitnessRoller that will launch in January of 2014. Contact Balanced Body at (800) 745-2837 or www.pilates.com for more information.
YB: Will you be providing certification training for instructors in the Chicago land area? If so when?
DB: Trainings will be available in early 2014.
If you’re looking to add more variety to your existing Pilates format, the CoreFitnessRoller may be just for you. For more details about the CoreFitnessRoller Contact Balanced Body at (800) 745-2837 or www.pilates.com
