High Barrel

The high barrel consists of ladder-like rungs and a rounded barrel-like surface on which a multitude of stretching, strengthening and flexibility exercises can be performed. The barrel is separated from the ladder by a sliding base that can adjust to accommodate different torso sizes and leg lengths in a range of Pilates exercises. The ladder rungs - four to six in total - are also adjustable to facilitate varying levels of fitness.

The Pilates high barrel helps isolate deep postural muscles and challenges the body on all planes of movement. For example, one exercise has you sitting on the barrel facing the ladder with your feet secured in the rungs, then you arch back over the barrel with your vertebrae following its contour and activate the core abdominals to return to the starting position in a controlled manner. Mental focus is key to executing this safely and effectively. Other exercises have you facing the other way, with your belly on the barrel, giving you a supported spinal stretch that helps to release tension.

Spine Corrector

The Pilates Spine Corrector, Step Barrel or Hump Barrel sort of resembles a whistle shape, with a semi-circular arch plus an angled step or seat. Handles or grips on the side allow for more security in movement

Like most barrels, this unit is effective for stretching the spine and shoulders in a safe, stabilized, supported way. It adds variety and challenge to a Pilates mat routine or circuit training session whether one is a novice or expert. These are becoming popular items for Pilates instructors to program into group exercise classes as well.