---
title: Pilates Reformer Glossary of Terms
description: Explore our comprehensive glossary of Pilates Reformer terms – perfect for beginners and seasoned practitioners alike. Learn key terminology to enhance your practice.
---
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# Pilates Reformer Glossary of Terms
## The world of Pilates can have many terms that you have never come across before especially when you are a newcomer. Below we have collated a list of terms to help you familiarise yourself!
**Pulley Rod/Pulley Upright:**
The **Pulley Rod** or **Pulley Upright** is the upright part of the reformer, usually found at the opposite end to the springs, secured into the frame. These allow for the **Pulley Ropes/Reformer Ropes** to be fed through and allow for a smooth glide when using the ropes for a number of different exercises.
**Pilates Footboard/Jumpboard:**
The **jumpboard** on a Pilates reformer is a **padded, flat platform** that attaches to the footbar end of the reformer. It's used primarily to add plyometric (jumping) exercises to Pilates workouts, allowing practitioners to perform low-impact cardio while lying on their back.
**Foot Strap:**
The **footstrap** on a Pilates reformer is typically found at the end of the reformer **carriage**, and it's used primarily during reformer exercises that involve lying prone (on your stomach) or seated. It provides anchoring and stability, allowing you to engage specific muscle groups more effectively.
**Carriage Board:**
In Pilates, the **carriage** (sometimes referred to informally as the *carriage board*) is the **moving platform** on the reformer that you lie, sit, kneel, or stand on during exercises.
**Foot Bar:**
The **footbar** on a Pilates reformer is a **horizontal, padded bar** located at one end of the machine. It plays a central role in many exercises by serving as a platform for your feet or hands to push against, helping to generate movement of the **carriage** and engage specific muscle groups.
**Trapeze:**
The **trapeze** is a **suspended horizontal bar**, usually padded, that hangs from adjustable springs or straps. It's part of the overhead metal frame and is used for pulling, pushing, hanging, swinging, and stretching exercises.
**Pilates Box:**
The **Pilates box** (also called the **reformer box** orlong/short box) is a **padded, rectangular block** used with the Pilatesreformer to expand the range of exercises you can perform. It allows for more variety, support, challenge, and comfort in different body positions.
**Shoulder Blocks:**
The **shoulder blocks** (also called **shoulder rests**) on a Pilates reformer are two **padded supports** located on either side of the headrest on the **carriage**. They serve as **stabilisers and alignment guides** during exercises, especially when lying on your back.
**Pilates Pole/Gondola Pole:
The Pilates pole**, also known as the **gondola pole**, is a long, lightweight wooden stick (usually around 4–5 feet long) used as a **balance aid and alignment tool**, primarily in reformer and mat Pilates.
**Hand/Foot/Pulley/Double Loops**
The **hand or foot loops (also known as Pulley or Double Loops)** on a Pilates reformer are **padded straps** attached to the ends of the **reformer ropes**, and they're used to perform a wide range of exercises that target the arms, legs, core, and back.
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