We do a lot of standing work on the reformer, which requires balance and coordination. It can be scary to move on a sliding platform elevated off the ground!
I'd been searching for some kind of pole to help clients balance when performing some of the more more complicated exercise moves.
I found the Balanced Body Gondola Pole. It's a 5 feet tall hard maple pole equipped with rubber ends to prevent it from slipping on the floor. At $70 a pop, I figured there must be something extra special about these poles. I ordered two for the studio.
When the poles came in, I was struck by how simple they are--basically a wooden dowel with rubber tips. I wondered if I could recreate my own from Lowes for less money.
Sure enough, I went to Lowes and tracked down two 1.25" diameter x 72" long poplar dowel for $10 each. Poplar isn't as heavy as maple, but the maple pole wasn't that heavy to begin with so I figured the weight difference is negligible.
I then ordered these 1.25" diameter chair leg tips for $12. I popped them on the ends of the poles and they fit perfectly.
Viola: I now have two great balance poles that cost $16 each compared to the $70 version. And my DIY version works great! It's longer than the Balanced Body version .... which is actually better for taller clients. The verdict: Clients love it! They love the Balanced Body Gondola poles too, but they don't know how much money I've saved!
Consider DIYing it like I did if you're in the market for a Pilates balance pole!
