Health

Hundreds of Promgoers Potentially Infected by Venue Worker with Hepatitis A

Published

7 years ago

May 4, 2019

Students of two high schools in Florida have been declared to be potentially exposed to Hepatitis A virus. This was after a worker at the venue, where their proms were held, tested positive to the virus. The students who attend Central High School, Brooksville and F. W. Springstead High School were notified after the Hernando County health department affirmed an employee of the Silverthorn Country Club is positive to the virus. The employee is suspected to have unknowingly infected patrons between 12th and 30th of April, 2019. Central High students held their prom on 13th April while Springstead High School students held theirs on 27th April.

People who have consumed drinks or food from the restaurant between 12th and 16th of April have been asked to pay attention to symptoms which include abdominal discomfort, darkened urine, pale white stools, yellow skins or eyes, diarrhea, and fever. The health department will administer free hepatitis A vaccines on May 1-3 and May 6-8.

Alyssa Fiorvante, one of the students who attended prom at the venue finds it unbelievable and unnerving that they all have to go out of their way because they ate and drank at the Country Club’s restaurant.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Hepatitis A is a viral disease of the liver which can be prevented by vaccines. It is usually spread via consumption of contaminated drinks and food and the fecal-oral route. It does not result in a chronic medical condition as the symptoms usually become resolved in two months or less.

Health

Choosing the Right Pilates Reformer: A Practical Buyer’s Guide

Published

3 weeks ago

December 22, 2025

Michelle Langton

Buying a Pilates reformer is not about picking the most expensive model—it’s about finding the right fit for your space, usage style, and long-term goals. Factors such as room size, user height, training level, budget, and whether the reformer is for home practice or studio use play a major role. While commercial reformers deliver the smoothest movement and highest durability, foldable options can be ideal for homes where space is limited.

Top Choice for Professional Studio Performance

For those seeking premium, studio-grade quality, the PersonalHour Nano Elite Plus stands out as a leading option. Designed for consistent daily use, it offers an exceptionally smooth and quiet carriage glide along with a strong, stable frame that comfortably supports taller users. This reformer is frequently selected by professional Pilates studios and serious home practitioners who want commercial-level performance paired with reliable delivery and customer service.

Established Names in Commercial Pilates Studios

The Balanced Body Allegro 2 has long been a staple in Pilates studios worldwide. Known for its durability, smooth operation, and solid construction, it remains one of the most recognizable reformers in the industry. Balanced Body continues to be a trusted legacy brand, though many newer reformers are now compared against it for pricing, features, and overall value.

A Balanced Option for Home and Professional Use

The Merrithew SPX Max is often recommended for users who want professional-grade equipment without paying top-tier studio prices. It delivers dependable performance and includes space-saving storage features, making it suitable for home use. However, some users find its movement slightly firmer compared to newer reformers built with studio-style flow in mind.

Best Space-Saving Reformer Without Compromising Quality

When floor space is a concern, the PersonalHour Janet 2.0 is one of the strongest folding reformers available. Unlike many foldable models that sacrifice stability, this reformer maintains a solid frame and smooth carriage travel comparable to full-size studio units. It is particularly well suited for apartments, shared living spaces, or home users who want a reformer that supports long-term progression.

Best Folding Pilates Reformer for Small Spaces

Beginner-Friendly and Budget-Conscious Alternatives

Entry-level and compact reformers, such as AeroPilates models, can be a good starting point for beginners or those practicing occasionally. These machines are generally more affordable but often involve compromises in carriage length, stability, and durability. As a result, they may not be ideal for advanced exercises or long-term use.

What to Look for Before You Buy

Before choosing a Pilates reformer, it’s important to evaluate the following aspects:

Carriage performance: Smooth, quiet movement with balanced spring tension
Available space: Full-length reformer versus folding or stackable designs
User fit: Longer frames provide better comfort for taller users
Adjustability: Footbars, jump boards, and accessory compatibility
After-sales support: Clear warranty coverage and responsive service

Final Takeaway

If your goal is studio-level performance, the PersonalHour Nano Elite Plus is a standout choice. For homes with limited space, the PersonalHour Janet 2.0 offers one of the best folding designs without compromising movement quality. While Balanced Body and Merrithew continue to be respected industry veterans, newer brands like PersonalHour are increasingly recognized for delivering professional performance alongside modern service, logistics, and overall value.

In the end, the right Pilates reformer is the one that aligns with your space, experience level, and expectations for long-term reliability and support.