Thank you for your kind message. I would always defer to Kristi C for correct equipment set up for safety and proper tension.  There is so much variation in equipment out there, especially with Pilates chairs, I think it is important to just explore what works with your specific model. I would definitely follow Kristi's advice if she was giving specific cues for spring setting for your chair. It has been a while since I gave this class, but I think I use the term: "Substance not strain." What I mean by this is that you want to have enough spring tension that the equipment stimulates a sense of muscle contraction, but not so strong that you have to strain any one part of your body to open the spring. It's all about exploration. Thank you again for your thoughtful message. Yours truly, Jonathan