Props recommended by The Danaher Method
- Catherine
- Jul 9
- 3 min read
The Danaher Method is grounded in Myofascial Release, Pilates and Strength Training. For that reason we use equipment and props ranging from the Pilates Reformer to Kettle Bells to Foam Rollers and Therapy Balls.
In this post, we share our baseline recommendations for props.
Therapy Balls
These are essential to the practice. I am trained thru Jill Miller's Roll Model Method and therefore am loyal to this brand. In my opinion they are the most effective general therapy ball. An important note is that they are slightly soft in texture to mimic the texture of muscle and fascia. I do not recommend a lacrosse ball or other hard rollers (muscles often tense up against them). Tune Up Fitness offers a larger side (“Plus”) which I recommend for taller bodies (6’4” and over).
Pilates Ball
At The Danaher Method, we use an inflatable Pilates Ball for core stabilization, mobility exercises, core strength fascia release and so many other things. There are a lot of these out there. Again here I recommend the Tune Up Fitness brand's Coregous Ball. Alternatively, the Overball is great. We use Overball at The Floor. Since these balls are inflatible they are great for travel.
Foam Rollers
Foam rollers are a versitile tool that we use for fascia release, mobility, core work, Pilates and strength training. You'll find a ton of great ways to use the foam roller in our on-demand class library. I recommend this OPTP Pro-Roller which is a staple in physical therapy offices. There's a slighty soft texture to it making it fascia friendly. I do not recommend the lumpy textured rollers, most are too firm and fascia can tighten against it instead of softening. If you are short on space I recommend the Amazon Basic 18" roller which smaller and more apartment friendly.
I also frequently use the OPTP half roller with clients. The half roller has more stability for Pilates work. If you have to choose one, get the Pro-Roller Round.
Resistance Loop Bands
There are also a lot of brands selling resistance bands out there. Being transparent, I'm still in search for what I think is the best one. My current top 2 choices are below. We use both in the studio.
The key here is to buy a set that includes bands that range in tension since we use these for both the lower and upper body and for heavy and light resistance work. Synergee has good a set that's simple, affordable and will give you all the the weight strengths you need. The downsides are the lack of body inclusivity (they can pinch) and color range.
My other choice is the most comfortable and body inclusive brand I've found - CFX. The downside is that the strengths are heavy. At TDM mostly just use only 2 of the 3 stengths included in the set. But they are very comfortable on and don't slip.
These are baseline props. In this post I have not covered strength training equiptment or weights. If you're interested in recommendations there please reach out.
Resources:
Class are hosted at The Floor on Atlantic.
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