When I first invested in the Contrology® range for my private studio in Dubai, my first workout using both the Reformer and Wunda chair was like a whole new Pilates workout, and in truth, I wondered if I had made the right decision.
I committed to using it, and after my third workout, a newfound strength and connection had me convinced. I was amazed at just how transformative the results were. What I was feeling and seeing in my body was due to the dimensions, springs, and lack of 'comfort' from the apparatus.
There certainly is no room for cheating, and knowing how much research went into the development of the Contrology range, taking Joseph Pilates's original dimensions and functionality, made each exercise unravel a new level to the work.
The Wunda Chair has always been my favorite go-to, especially as a gym goer. I understand why Joseph Pilates called it his mini gym as you can quite literally take your strength, flexibility, stamina, and stability to a whole new level.
What sets the Wunda Chair apart from other apparatus is its ability to challenge the body in both seated and standing positions with less support. It really challenges stability and coordination across the entire body, encouraging functional movement patterns and making workouts more efficient.
However, one of the aspects I love most about the Wunda Chair is the mental focus it demands. Unlike some of the other apparatus, the chair requires constant engagement and concentration. This heightened awareness helps refine the mind-body connection, which, as we know, is a fundamental part of Pilates.
What sets the Contrology Wunda Chair apart? These are my top 5.
- The lack of cushioning on the mat. For me, especially being hypermobile, the hard surface really helps me to stabilize and engage my back when using my hands on the top. This also goes for standing positions, as having less cushioning helps keep the ankle from collapsing, allowing better feedback to help fire up the hamstrings and glutes. Then the seated or lying positions give greater feedback to the centre, as if having a smaller mat wasn’t enough!
- The pedal. The shape of the pedal allows both the hand and feet to have better feedback and anchoring. It's great to play with the different angles of the pedal and how the impact affects what and where the muscles are firing from throughout the body.
- The springs. I love the Contrology springs, which really force you to work and move that pedal from your centre. It’s impossible not to fire up your centre with these springs, which engage multiple muscle groups simultaneously, providing a full-body workout.
- It's mini but mighty! It’s compact but offers many ways of working out, making it a perfect addition to the home without taking up too much space.
- It does the teaching for you. There is no time to overthink in your workout, and the Contrology Wunda Chair immediately connects you to where you need to be working from. This also applies to your client's workout. I find clients connect much quicker and find the work more challenging, which we always like. As teachers, less talking and more moving to feel the work themselves is precisely what we want from a Pilates practice and I believe the Contrology line has really supported this.
Gaby Noble
Owner of Exhale Pilates & Education
Over 20 years ago, Gaby discovered Pilates through her teacher and now dear friend, Stephanie Guimond. A former fitness junkie, she found that nothing challenged her physically and mentally like Pilates. After a serious car accident left her in chronic pain, it was Pilates that helped her heal and regain strength. In 2011, she earned her Power Pilates certification and opened Exhale to help others discover their potential. She is passionate about sharing Joseph Pilates’ work and watching clients transform.Learn more at Exhale Pilates London.
