On the reformer, what should you do for a student who is 5'9", very stiff, and has back pain?

For a student who is 5'9", very stiff, and experiencing back pain, moving the reformer out one gear is beneficial because it adjusts the resistance to a more manageable level. This decreases the intensity of the exercises, which is particularly important for someone who may not be flexible or is dealing with discomfort. By making the reformer less resistant, the student is more likely to maintain proper form and control throughout the movements, reducing the risk of exacerbating back pain.

Additionally, this adjustment allows for greater engagement of the core muscles while providing sufficient support for the spine. A beginner or someone who's stiff can benefit from this modification as it encourages them to focus on movement quality rather than quantity of resistance. This can lead to improved mobility over time while addressing their specific needs effectively.

In contrast, leaving the head rest down when lying supine may not offer the necessary support for their back pain, and adding extra springs could increase resistance, which might lead to strain and discomfort. Reducing a spring might over-simplify the exercises and not challenge the student enough, which could hinder progress. Thus, moving the reformer out one gear is the most appropriate action for this situation.