If you want access to a convenient, low impact, effective, full body workout, having a Pilates reformer at home can be an amazing investment. However, it can be confusing to know which one will best fit your needs.
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If you’re looking to purchase a Pilates machine for home use, this guide details the most important considerations to help you make an informed decision about which reformer to buy.
How much space do you have to use and store your Pilates reformer at home?
Before purchasing your machine, it’s helpful to consider where you plan to use it and how you plan to store it. In addition to the reformer fitting into your physical space, you should account for how much space it takes to practice the exercises. We recommend having at least a foot (12") of space on the head and foot ends, and two feet (24") of free space on either side of the reformer during a workout for a total floor space of 114" x 78" (9ft 6in x 6ft 6in).
If you have limited space, you may want a reformer that can be stored upright, allowing you to use that room for activities outside of your workout. For comparison's sake, the footprint of a commercial Pilates machine that you’d see in the studio is 93” x 24.5.” Our reformer has a footprint of 90” x 30,” so it doesn’t take up any more floor space than a typical commercial Reformer. The Flexia Reformer is also fitted with built-in transport wheels, so it can be easily moved and stored upright assuming that you have ceilings at least 8’ high. Here are more tips for setting up your at-home workout space.
Who is going to use your Pilates reformer at home?
When it comes to fit, one size reformer does not fit all. If you have multiple people in your household who plan to use the reformer, then you’ll want a machine that comfortably fits your smallest and largest household members, so everyone gets an optimal workout.
It’s not uncommon for the average reformer to be too narrow for many larger bodied people to comfortably lie on their back with their arms supported while still not being adjustable enough for people on the smaller side to effectively use it.
Additionally, many people with longer torsos find that they don’t fit well on many commercial reformers when lying on their backs, because their butt hangs off the end. Our reformer carriage is long enough to ensure that even our longest torso friends can comfortably lie on it with their pelvis fully supported.
With a carriage that is 6” wider and 3” longer than our contemporary counterparts, the Flexia Reformer was built to fit varying body shapes and sizes and is the most customizable Pilates reformer on the market. It includes adjustable shoulder rests, springbar, headrest, ropes, and a padded footbar to fit most body dimensions between 5'0" and 6'6" tall. Finally, while it doesn’t take up any more space than a commercial reformer, it also gives you more carriage travel for certain exercises like lunges and jumping.
How easy is the reformer to assemble and use?
Not sure how to get a sofa sized box from your sidewalk to your workout space? Us either. That’s why we ship our reformer in multiple boxes so one person can receive and assemble the machine. We also designed it to be easily assembled without professional assistance, because having a Pilates reformer at home shouldn’t require an engineering degree. However, we know that you may not have the time or energy to do this yourself, so we have in-home assembly delivery available for an additional fee.
Once your reformer is set up, it’s also important that you and all of your household members can easily adjust it to fit your proportions and have a safe and effective workout. Different brands of reformers have varying levels of customization and ease of adjustment. We designed ours to be highly adjustable, but also intuitive.
Here are four key ways the Flexia™ Reformer can be adjusted:
- Removable, 4-position Padded Footbar
- One-hand adjustment, 3-position Springbar
- Adjustable, 4-position Shoulder Rests
- Easily adjustable ropes
- 2-position headrest for laying flat or supportive elevation
…and we also provide ample education on how to choose your personalized settings for the best workout. Learn how to Find your FitTM, here.
A final consideration for ease of use is whether there are online classes dedicated to your specific machine. This is important because if your Pilates reformer at home is different in height, spring setting, or adjustability, then you may not be able to do the same exercises as the instructor in the class you’re taking.
Our online studio has on-demand classes exclusively demonstrated on our reformer at a variety of skill levels, lengths, focuses, and intensities to fit your goals and schedule where you’ll never have to guess at what reformer settings you need.
Does your home reformer have technology to give you personalized feedback?
A common question we get is can you use a Pilates reformer at home and get good results? After all, personalized feedback, which we often receive in a studio setting, can be a powerful tool to help you perfect your form and see results faster. Since you don’t have a teacher in the room when working out at home, technology works well as an alternative.
The Flexia Reformer is equipped with patent-pending sensor technology that gives you real-time feedback, tracks your progress, and makes personalized recommendations on what to do next with the proprietary Movement Quality Score (MQS).
This way, you can be confident you’re doing the exercises correctly at a pace that matches your current fitness level and goals.
How much value do you get for the price?
When considering the value of your reformer, here are some of the factors that you’ll want to consider in the price.
The average professional grade reformer retails for over $ and doesn’t include sensor technology or the accessories you need for a complete Pilates workout, such as the jump board, standing platform, and sitting box. Additionally, these reformers are not designed to be easily set up and used at home.
- Jump to:
- Best home reformers available (studio standard)
- Recommended home reformers
- Recommended extra-long reformers
- Top Acceptable Reformers
Our detailed spreadsheet of every reformer on the market
Experience: If you want the full studio reformer experience at home, a studio reformer is the way to go. Built for professional use, these machines offer maximum adjustability and durability, perfect for replicating the studio environment and handling a wider range of exercises and user weights. They hold their value well if you choose to sell in the future, but tend to be a larger investment upfront.
Manufacturers usually make home versions of their studio reformers; which tend to be more portable and easier to store. Though they are prone to be slightly smaller and have less adjustability and features, it's unlikely to make a difference to your practice.
Size: Consider where your Reformer will live. Will it have a permanent home? If space is an issue or you are a fan of rearranging your space now and then, consider a model that can stand upright or a fold-in-half model for easy storage and movement. Reformers typically range from 80" to 100" long.
Price: Reformers can be expensive. Decide if you're okay with a model that's similar but not identical to a studio Reformer. While high-quality reformers are an investment, there are also more affordable options available, be sure to weigh features and durability against price. Investing in a quality machine will pay off in the long run. Buying directly from the manufacturer can be cheaper - Always be sure to check the price with shipping included!
Try Before You Buy: Whenever possible, try out Reformers before purchasing. Here are some ways to do this:
- Take a lesson at a studio with the reformer you're interested in. This is the ideal way to get a feel for the specific machine and how it functions.
- Attend industry events that showcase Pilates equipment. This allows you to test different models from various manufacturers.
- Explore online resources. Manufacturers offer instructional videos or online tutorials featuring their reformer models in action.
When trying out reformers, consider factors like adjustability, comfort of the padding, and noise level of the springs/carriage.
To ensure long-term use and peace of mind, Research Manufacturer's parts availability, customer service, and with off brand models, consumer rights and protection.
Buying Used: Top brand reformers can last a lifetime, with occasional maintenance needed. Local studios may sell gently used Reformers, offering familiarity and savings. Online sites like Craigslist can also have good deals, but ensure you try before you buy unless you're making payments through sites. If you pay the seller directly, your money isn't protected. sites such as eBay offer buyer protection if the reformer isn't as described, or damaged in transit.
Considering a pre-owned reformer? Check out these helpful resources for finding the perfect fit on platforms like eBay and Facebook Marketplace.
- Click here to see the latest used reformers on eBay
- Facebook Pilates apparatus marketplace group
- Facebook Contrology Pilates apparatus marketplace group
Beware of scammers! If you pay the seller directly, your money isn't protected. Sites such as eBay offer buyer protection if the reformer isn't as described, or damaged in transit. In addition, eBay will refund scams. Paypal and the banks might not be able to help you if you send a direct payment. Ideally, it is suggested to pay when you go to collect the reformer.
Get to know the brands from this buy guide:
Balanced Body
Balanced Body started as a one-man furniture workshop by Ken Endelman. A client requesting a better Reformer design sparked his interest in Pilates. Endelman, a mechanical engineer, studied Joseph Pilates' concepts and collaborated with leading instructors to create improved features on Reformers.
Today, Balanced Body is the world's leading Pilates apparatus manufacturer and considered the industry standard. They're renowned for quality, innovation and exceptional customer service. All of their apparatus is hand-made in Sacramento, California.
Video: The making of a Balanced Body Reformer
Balanced Body is a strong advocate for comprehensive Pilates education. They offer a variety of certification programs for instructors, ensuring a high standard of teaching with their equipment.
BalancedBody.com
Founded in , this Sacramento-based company focuses on innovating technology and modern design. Their creator, Kaleen Canevari was an engineer for Balanced Body focusing on equipment design, and noticed a gap in the market; people wanted effective Pilates workouts they could do at home without losing the feedback and progress tracking of a studio session.
Compared to all the companies listed here, Flexia gains uniqueness by producing just 1 product, the Flexia Smart Reformer, and a range of accessories for it.
In addition, Flexia fosters a virtual, interactive community through a studio membership and is well known for their excellent customer service and reviews.
CEO Kaleen Canevari AMA on r/pilates
Video: Flexia origins story
Flexiapilates.com
Elina Pilates originated in Spain under PIKT Pelotas, a sports equipment manufacturer with over 15 years of experience. All products undergo stringent quality checks and meet European Standards and Certifications (CE) for safety and reliability. This European brand is rapidly gaining popularity in North America for its high-quality Pilates equipment.
Their equipment is designed by and for Pilates professionals, aiming to provide the best price/quality ratio in the industry.
Elina Pilates prides itself on the use of highest quality materials and implementing continuous quality controls. Their product development is guided by feedback from over 50 professional Pilates teachers worldwide, ensuring innovative and high-quality equipment.
Their Reformers are renowned for smooth operation, stability, and robust construction, with adjustable settings for various body types and skill levels.
Elinapilates.com
Align-Pilates has conquered the title of being one of Europe's leading Pilates apparatus brand, securing availability in over 28 countries! Based in Great Britain, the company offers a wide range of commercial studio equipment and innovative home reformers, along with mats, props, and small equipment for Pilates mat-work.
Align-Pilates is known for its excellent performance/price ratio, offering high-quality, reliable apparatus with flexible and adaptable designs. Many of their products include innovative, patented features that enhance the user experience.
Combining the manufacturing expertise of its sister company, The Mad Group, with customer insights, Align-Pilates has become Europe's premier Pilates equipment company. Their latest equipment blends proven reliability with rapid, customer-led design improvements.
Align-Pilates stands out for its comprehensive service in the UK, holding all products in stock and offering a full delivery and installation service using their own staff and vehicles. Their extensive range of spares and accessories ensures smooth operations for Pilates businesses.
Align-pilates.com
Stamina Products, founded in in Springfield, Missouri, is a well-established fitness equipment company known for its affordable and functional Pilates reformers designed primarily for home use. Their reformers feature adjustable resistance cords, foldable designs for easy storage, and padded footbars for comfort. Stamina reformers are among the most affordable on the market, typically ranging from $300 to $.
Stamina Products started with five business partners Barry Laurie, Kevin Gerschefske, Jeff Hutchens, Brent Swanson, and Bob McBrideâ who were friends as well as colleagues. Overcoming early challenges, including fraud and competition, the company thrived due to perseverance and key partnerships, especially with William Lin of Asia Regent Limited for manufacturing.
A significant turning point came in with the launch of AeroPilates on QVC. Partnering with Marjolein Brugman, who aimed to make Pilates accessible to everyone, Stamina introduced the first in-home Pilates reformer. This launch was a success and helped solidify Stamina's place in the fitness industry. Marjolein Brugman played a key role in bringing reformer Pilates into homes. Inspired by her rehabilitation experience, she sought to make Pilates accessible to all, not just the affluent. Her work with Stamina has helped millions improve their well-being through AeroPilates.
Stamina AeroPilates reformers are designed for cost-effectiveness and accessibility, making them ideal for home users. They focus on providing a genuine Pilates experience with features that ensure ease of use and convenience, such as foldable designs for easy storage.
Stamina Products emphasises a pro-consumer and pro-employee approach. Treating employees well ensures they provide excellent customer service, which has been a cornerstone of Stamina's success. Their commitment to quality and affordability helps bring the benefits of Pilates to a wider audience. Stamina Products continues to evolve, driven by innovation and a commitment to making fitness accessible and affordable for everyone.
Aeropilates.com
Gratz Industries, established in New York City in by Frank Gratz, is the original manufacturer of Pilates apparatus. Initially a custom fabrication shop, Gratz specialised in producing industrial design prototypes, architectural metal, furniture, and sculptures for leading designers globally.
The company's transition into Pilates equipment began under Frank Gratz's son, Donald Gratz. In the late s, Donald collaborated with Romana Kryzanowska, a direct disciple of Joseph Pilates. This partnership was crucial in preserving the original dimensions and proportions of Pilates apparatus, ensuring that the equipment adhered to Joseph Pilates' vision. This commitment to authenticity and precision has made Gratz a trusted name in the Pilates community.
After over eight decades in New York City, Gratz relocated to Philadelphia in to expand its operations. The company continues to support the Pilates community through collaborations with teaching organisations, hosting of events, conferences, and workshops. This allows instructors and students to deepen their practice and knowledge.
Gratz Industries prides itself on its high level of customer service, offering personalised assistance, studio layout, and design services. Their dedication ensures that every piece of equipment maintains the integrity of the Pilates method, providing a reliable and authentic experience for practitioners worldwide.
pilates-gratz.com
Cunruope began in with a mission: to make high-quality Pilates equipment affordable and accessible to all. The idea was sparked by a shared love for Pilates between its founders—an MIT student and Mary, a movement specialist with over 15 years of experience. Mary is a Stott Pilates Certified Specialist, NASN Certified Sports Nutritionist, Physical Therapist, and Master Teacher in Dance. Her deep knowledge of anatomy and movement has shaped every detail of Cunruope's designs.
Based in China, they have warehouses in USA, Canada, Europe and UK.
With support from the founder’s family business, Cunruope built its own factory, allowing Mary to work closely with engineers to develop reformers that balance durability, functionality, and affordability. Their signature Apex and Momentum series—launched in .
cunruope.com
FAITTD is a newer Chinese brand in the Pilates equipment market, aiming to provide high-quality reformers at competitive prices. They offer a range of reformers suitable for both beginners and advanced users, focusing on combining quality with affordability.
Customers have generally praised FAITTD for the sturdy construction and ease of assembly of their products, as well as for the quality packaging. This includes commendations for the company's customer service, particularly in handling logistical challenges and order adjustments.
Faittd.com
The best home reformer you can own. These all allow Towers to be fitted, and a Cadillac on some models.
- Considered the gold standard for Pilates reformers by many instructors
- Used in all Club Pilates studios
- Known for its smooth carriage ride and durable construction
- Made from solid maple wood with a weight capacity of 300 lbs
- Long carriage travel at 41"
- CE approved medical device (Class 1)
starting at
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