Health

People Excellent at Trivia might have Efficiently Wired Brains: Study

Published

6 years ago

August 15, 2019

A small study carried out by the team of researchers from Ruhr University Bochum and Humboldt University Berlin, has shown that people with good knowledge might have really efficiently wired brains. 324 healthy people took part in the study in which the team of researchers used a number of different MRI techniques to study the structural and functional pathways of the brain.

The study also answered the question of whether interindividual differences in the brain’s structure and function are linked to interindividual differences in general knowledge or not. In the study, the participants were asked to complete a general knowledge test known as the Bochum Knowledge test. And a particular type of imaging known as diffusion tensor imaging was used to reconstruct the pathways of the nerve fibres and also various models were used to test the efficiency of the nerve fibre pathways.

Students with efficiently wired brains have the ability to learn interesting facts in an easy manner and they perform better in a general knowledge test than the other students. They often search for popular online sources to look for general knowledge facts. For example, if they want to search for ‘what is duckduckgo,’ they easily get an answer on the web. Plenty of online sources provide information related to interesting facts to help people increase their general knowledge.

The results of the study showed that both age and sex were linked to higher general knowledge but the team of researchers found that the variation was due to the structure of the brain (the global efficiency of the structural network or NETstruc). According to the biopsychologist Erhan Genc, from Ruhr University Bochum, the more efficient networking of the brain helps to better integration of pieces of information which eventually contributes to better results in a general knowledge test.

Health

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

Published

2 days 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.