Moguls skiing demands complete control. Every run challenges an athlete’s strength, balance, timing, and mental focus. Stifel U.S. Ski Team athletes Tess Johnson, Jaelin Kauf, and Olivia Giaccio train year-round to stay ready for the intensity of competition, and one tool plays a major role in their preparation. They rely on the Ultra 1 Reform RX-S, a Pilates machine otherwise known as a reformer designed to support precise movement and complete-body strength. Their Pilates work off the slopes strengthens their foundation and sharpens their confidence when the pressure is highest on the mountain.

For the first time, the same Pilates machine used by these athletes is available for the home. This brings professional-grade design and movement to anyone who wants to feel stronger, more balanced, and more in control of their body.

Why Reformer Pilates Matters for Moguls Skiers

Moguls skiing places significant force through the spine and lower body. The athletes must absorb impact, maintain alignment, and react instantly to changes in terrain. Reformer Pilates is an ideal complement because it strengthens deep core muscles, reinforces stability, and improves control through every phase of movement.

Jaelin Kauf describes the connection between Pilates and her sport clearly:

“So much of moguls skiing is about balance. A lot of my training on the reformer is focused on core and balance because that is what we need when we get back on the hill.”

An advanced Pilates machine challenges balance and strength in a controlled way. The smooth carriage, varied resistance, and full range of movement develop the same control athletes need during a run.

Jaelin Kauf: Rebuilding Strength and Returning Confidently

Two-time Olympian and Olympic silver medalist Jaelin Kauf turned to Pilates after fracturing her back. With only weeks before returning to competition, she relied on the reformer to rebuild strength safely and effectively.

“As soon as I was cleared with Physical Therapy, I started working on the reformer and Pilates during those 4 weeks, to be able to come back for that next World Cup.”

The machine helped her isolate small stabilizing muscles that protect her spine and support powerful, clean movement.

“So much of moguls skiing is about balance. We train constantly, on and off the hill, to recover from the smallest mistakes and stay as balanced as possible all the way down the run. Especially in dual moguls, recovering quickly from tiny errors is everything. A lot of my training in the gym, and especially on the Reformer in Pilates, is focused on core and balance. That’s a huge part of what we need when we transition back to the hill.”

The enclosed cables, smooth glide, and quick resistance adjustments on the Ultra 1 Reform RX-S help her move through her sessions with focus and efficiency, which is essential during a busy training season.

Tess Johnson: Pursuing Excellence Through Precision

Tess Johnson, a two-time World Cup winner and 2018 Olympian, views Pilates as a direct extension of the detail-oriented work she does on snow. Her sport demands precision, and Pilates builds that precision in every rep.

“Pilates is all about precision, control, and the pursuit of excellence. Those are the same qualities I aim for every day in moguls skiing.”

After spine surgery for a herniated disc, Tess relied on intentional, slow, focused movement to rebuild her strength. Pilates helped her return to competition with greater control and a deeper understanding of her body.

“It is harder to move slowly and precisely than it is to rush, but it is far more valuable.”

She appreciates that the Ultra 1 Reform RX-S feels steady and smooth, allowing her to stay focused on her form rather than the Pilates machine equipment. 

“The carriage glides like butter. I’m just happy that I have this kind of equipment supporting my training when I need it most in a high-stakes year.”

Olivia Giaccio: Breath, Flow, and Mental Clarity

As a three-time World Cup winner and 2022 Olympian, Olivia Giaccio uses Pilates to practice a calm, steady approach to movement. Finding flow helps her stay composed during high-pressure runs.

“There is a meditative quality in linking breath to movement in Pilates, and it manifests the same way when I am on the hill.”

Visualization plays a large role in her training, and Pilates supports that rhythm of imagining, preparing, and performing. The adjustable footbar on the Ultra 1 Reform RX-S expands her movement options and supports the variety she needs to stay challenged and engaged.

“I have never used a reformer where the footbar moves through such a wide range. The versatility expands everything I can do on the machine.”

How Pilates Training at Home Supports Stronger, More Confident Movement

The same machines used by these athletes at the USANA Center of Excellence powered by iFIT are available for your home. The Ultra 1 Reform RX-S offers guided, controlled movement that supports strength, stability, alignment, and overall body confidence. Workouts can be tailored to all levels, from beginner to advanced, and the experience remains smooth and secure throughout each session. 

Jaelin appreciates how meaningful this access is:

“We’ve always had access to the best training, the newest technology and things that are coming out, to be able to train, perform, and compete at our very best. It’s really cool that this Reformer is available to everyday people to continue to push themselves and build up their strength. Just like we are.”  

This opens the door for anyone to build strength and control through intentional, effective movement. Whether someone is new to Pilates or wants to advance their training, the Ultra 1 Reform RX-S provides the foundation for a more balanced and capable body.

Train With the Pilates Machine Trusted by Stifel U.S. Ski Team Athletes

The Ultra 1 Reform RX-S supports the same qualities that elevate Tess Johnson, Jaelin Kauf, and Olivia Giaccio in their sport. Stronger balance, better control, and more deliberate movement create the foundation for powerful results both on and off the mountain. You can bring this level of training into your home and build your own foundation for confident, steady movement.

Explore NordicTrack’s Pilates Ultra Reformer series or explore our overview of the Ultra 1 Reformer Series.

Disclaimer: The primary purpose of this blog post is to inform and entertain. Nothing on the post constitutes or is intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, prevention, diagnosis, or treatment. Reliance on any information provided on the blog is solely at your own risk. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition, and please consult your doctor or other health care provider before making any changes to your diet, sleep methods, daily activity, or fitness routine. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of information available on this blog. NordicTrack assumes no responsibility for any personal injury or damage sustained by any recommendations, opinions, or advice given in this article. Always follow the safety precautions included in the owner’s manual of your fitness equipment.