Pilates Home Reformer buy guide 2024
Pilates Home Reformer buy guide
Our detailed spreadsheet of every reformer on the market
If you want to learn more, please visit our website.
Looking to buy a Reformer to use at home? Here are some things to consider:
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.
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 BodyBalanced 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
STOTT/MerrithewSTOTT Pilates, a brand under Merrithew Health & Fitness, which was founded in by Lindsay and Moira Merrithew. They built upon Joseph Pilates&#; original work, incorporating modern biomechanics and rehabilitation principles to create the STOTT Pilates method. This focus on precision and quality extends to their Reformers, known for:
- Bio-mechanically engineered design: Ensures proper body alignment and movement patterns.
- Adjustable features: Spring resistance and ergonomic elements cater to various body types and fitness levels.
- High quality and durability: Built to last in studios, rehab centres, and even home settings (priced typically between $ and $).
STOTT Pilates gained global recognition in the s and s, with the support of their comprehensive instructor training programs. The brand later rebranded as Merrithew in , but their commitment to innovation continued. Today, STOTT Pilates Reformers remain a top choice for their versatility and ability to withstand years of use.
Merrithew.com
FlexiaFounded 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-PilatesAlign-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
StaminaStamina 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 McBride&#;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
GratzGratz 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
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
All buy links should redirect to the same (or equivalent) for Northern and Western Hemispheres.
The best home reformers (studio standard)
These are all studio standard, they all allow Towers to be fitted, and a Cadillac in some models.
Balanced Body Studio Reformer starting at $.00&#;&#;
With Tower &#; $6,975.00
BB Studio SpecificationsBrandBalanced BodyModelStudioAmazon LinkBB StudioPrice(as of January )$ starting
(height, wood, footbar dependent)Brand VideosBalanced Body&#;s How to Choose a Reformer PlaylistSprings3 red, 1 green, 1 blueTelescopic or foldable?NoVertical Storage?NoFrameWoodNotesWeight152 lbsReformer L x W93&#; x 26.5&#;Weight Capacity350 lbsHeight from floor14&#; / 18&#; / 24&#;Carriage width23&#;Carriage length30.5&#;Add vertical tower and mat converter?No
- 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)
Balanced Body Rialto &#; $3,495.00
With Tower &#; $.25
Rialto SpecificationsBrandBalanced BodyModelRialtoAmazon LinkRialtoPrice(as of January )$3,495.00Brand VideosBalanced Body&#;s How to Choose a Reformer PlaylistSprings3 red, 1 green, 1 blueTelescopic or foldable?NoVertical Storage?NoFrameWood &#; Maple, Metal legsNotes&#;Weight140 lbsReformer L x W95.5&#; x 34.25&#;Weight Capacity350 lbsHeight from floor15&#;Carriage width30.5&#;Carriage length30.5&#;Add vertical tower and mat converter?Yes
- Created in , a more affordable option for the home and studio, less features than the Allegro and Studio models
- 3 position No Roll Springbar and 3 position carriage stopper
- Secure 5-position footbar with easy vertical adjustment
- Quick-adjustment ropes and locking cam cleats
Balanced Body Allegro &#; $3,345.00
With Tower &#; $4,900
- Anodised aluminum frame
- $ cheaper than the Allegro 2
- Easy to use, lightweight, portable
- Smooth carriage system
- Over 44,000 sold since first created in
STOTT/Merrithew V2 Max &#; $4,799.00
With Tower and bundle &#; $.15
V2 Max SpecificationsBrandStottModelV2 MaxAmazon LinkV2 MaxPrice(as of June )$.00Brand VideosMerrithew Professional Reformers Overview
Professional vs. At-Home ReformersSprings3 red, 1 blue, 1 whiteTelescopic or foldable?NoVertical Storage?YesFrameMetalNotesStott Demo Equipment for SaleWeight145 lbsReformer L x W97&#; x 30&#;Weight Capacity350 lbsHeight from floor17.25&#;Carriage width24&#;Carriage length38.5&#;Add vertical tower and mat converter?Yes
- Lifetime Warranty on Aluminum Rails, components of the frame and related welding, standard gearbar, and footbar mechanisms
- Retractable Rope System
- Neoprene Spring Covers to reduce noise
- Video: Overview of the V2 Max
Gratz Universal Reformer $ 4,590.00
gymfrog Product Page
- Due to popular demand, there can be long weight times for delivery
- Two foot bar positions (flat and angled)
- Also available in wood
- The carriage has a slight gap between the springs resting, and the carriage reached the stopper, it requires more core engagement to pull the carriage fully into the stopper during exercises.
Flexia Studio Smart Reformer Bundle &#; 3.795.00
Smart Reformer SpecificationsBrandFlexiaModelFlexia ReformerAmazon LinkPrice(as of June )$ to $Brand VideosFlexia Reformer Review
Interview w/ Founder and CEO Kaleen CavenariSprings1x Black 125%
2x Blue 100%
1x Orange 50%
1x White 25%Telescopic or foldable?NoVertical Storage?YesFrameWoodNotesComes with box and jumpboard. Smart capabilitiesWeightReformer L x W90&#; x 30&#;Weight Capacity350 lbsHeight from floor14&#;Carriage width30&#;?Carriage lengthAdd vertical tower and mat converter?No
- Integrates sensor technology with an app-based workout platform, providing real-time feedback and personalised exercise routines
- 48 adjustable settings
- Great for plus-size people
- Lots of positive reviews from instructors
- Includes 3 months free subscription to their online platform
- Sensors mounted on the carriage detect weight, speed, acceleration, and distance moved.
- Video: about Flexia&#;s Smart Pilates Technology
- Video: Liz from FatBodyPilates.com&#;s review
Elina Wood Reformer &#; $3,585.00
Elina Wood SpecificationsBrandElinaModelElina WoodAmazon LinkElina WoodPrice(as of June )$3,585Brand VideosSprings1x red
2x yellow
2x greenTelescopic or foldable?NoVertical Storage?NoFrameWoodNotes&#;Weight154 lbsReformer L x W93&#; x 23.2&#;Weight CapacityHeight from floor27.56&#;Carriage width12.99&#;Carriage length39.37&#;
Add vertical tower and mat converter?No
- Made in Spain
- Includes box, jump board, and handles
- Silent carriage with high precision bearings
- Video: Reformer overview
Elina HL3 Aluminium Reformer &#; $3,945.00
HL3 SpecificationsBrandElinaModelHL3Amazon LinkElina AlluminiumPrice(as of June )$3,945.00Brand VideosSprings2x red
1x yellow
2x greenTelescopic or foldable?NoVertical Storage?YesFrameAluminiumSpecial Features&#;NotesReformer L x W94.49&#; x 26.38&#;Weight Capacity148 lbsHeight from floor16.54&#;Carriage width12.99&#;Carriage length39.37&#;
Add vertical tower and mat converter?No
- Silent and smooth bed slide system
- Comes with 1 set of double handles. + 1 set of handles with hard foam handle
- Stackable and can stand upright
- Available in 4 leg heights
BASI Reformer &#; $6,250
With Tower &#; $8,995
5% off with code REDDITPILATES at pilatesreformersplus.com
(as of June )$8,990.00Brand VideosSprings1x yellow
1x blue
3x redTelescopic or foldable?NoVertical Storage?NoFrameWoodSpecial Features&#;NotesReformer L x W98.4&#; x 27.5&#;Weight Capacity197.3 lbsHeight from floor7.9&#;Carriage width27.6&#;Carriage length31&#;Add vertical tower and mat converter?Yes
- Pulleys can be set anywhere along the height and width of the half tower
- Aircraft quality aluminum tracks for smooth, quiet carriage ride
- Longest, widest carriage in the industry
- Highly adjustable headrest, shoulder rests and footbar
Recommended home Reformers
They may be slightly smaller, have less features or use slightly less robust materials than studio reformers.
Merrithew&#; At Home SPX® Reformer Package &#; $3,199.99
- Traditional rope system
- Non-removal padded shoulder rests
- Excelent quality patented carriage system
- Includes Reformer Box with Footstrap, Padded Platform Extender and Metal Roll-up Pole
- Durable and easy to use At Home SPX is a testament to quality and craftsmanship
Balanced Body Metro IQ $2,295.00
- Lightweight at 85 lbs, foldable, 4 castors to easily move it around
- No legs, alternatives can be used such as furniture stands
- The best of Balanced Body professional grade features in a compact home model
- Sets up and stores away in seconds
Align-Pilates F3 Folding Reformer &#; $2,900.00
Align F3 specificationsBrandAlign-PilatesModelF3Amazon LinkAlign F3Price(as of June )$2,900.00Brand VideosSprings1x red
1x blue
2x greenTelescopic or foldable?FoldableVertical Storage?YesFrameAluminiumNotes&#;Weight128 lbsReformer L x W95.28&#; x 25.98&#;Weight Capacity265 lbsHeight from floor9.06&#;Carriage width22.83&#;Carriage length35.04&#;Add vertical tower and mat converter?No
- Innovative new carriage design that means the wheels never cross the join
- Double loop handles with &#;silent&#; metal free connectors for a quieter workout
- Adjustable feet to ensure your reformer sits flat and can run smoothly
- Video: F3 features
Top Extra-long home Reformers
Balanced Body Allegro Stretch &#; $3,745.00
with Tower &#; $4,940
Allegro Stretch SpecificationsBrandBalanced BodyModelAllegro StretchAmazon LinkAllegro StretchPrice(as of January )$.00Brand VideosBalanced Body&#;s How to Choose a Reformer PlaylistSprings3 red, 1 blue, 1 yellowTelescopic or foldable?NoVertical Storage?YesFrameMetalNotes&#;Weight138 lbsReformer L x W111&#; x 36&#;Weight Capacity113 lbsHeight from floor14&#;Carriage width24. 3/4&#;Carriage length34 5/8&#;Add vertical tower and mat converter?Yes
- 18 inches longer than the Allegro 1
- Designed for taller and larger exercisers, and anyone in pursuit of a more challenging cardio workout, the Allegro Stretch Reformer includes all the first-rate features of the Allegro Reformer plus a longer frame and wider carriage.
Merrithew SPX Max Reformer Bundle with Verticle Frame Bundle &#; $3,999.00
- Patented Retractable Rope System
- 5 Neoprene spring covers for noise reduction
- Easy-roll wheels on both ends of the Reformer
- Video: Demoing storing the SPX Max
Top Acceptable Reformers
They get the job done at an acceptable experience compared to a studio reformer. These are the best of the cheapest!
Stamina AeroPilates Pro 565 &#; $1,199.00
Pro 565 SpecificationsBrandAeroPilatesModelPro 565Amazon LinkPro 565Price(as of June )$1,199.00Brand VideosBrand VideoSprings2x blue
2x yellowTelescopic or foldable?NoVertical Storage?YesFrameWood and MetalNotesWeight133 lbsReformer L x W94&#; x 24.5&#;Weight Capacity300 lbsHeight from floor15&#;Carriage width24.5&#;Carriage lengthAdd vertical tower and mat converter?No
- Good &#;ol reliable, Aero Pilates. They&#;ve been making reformers targetting home users for nearly 3 decades. This is their best model.
- Oak trim, aluminium frame
- Top reformer made by Stamina
- Great customer service
- Video: 565 features
Faittd
These reformers can be found cheaper directly on their website, and even cheaper on alibaba.com (same reformer under different brands), but there&#;s no buyer protection, customer service is very poor, and spare parts aren&#;t available online. Amazon prices are higher, but offer excellent customer support, and full refunds, with structural parts guaranteed for 2 years, all others parts 1 year.
The reformers built to a very good standard with genuine good reviews online.
Faittd Wood Reformer
&#;&#; Faittd Reformer &#; $2,999.99
&#;&#; With Tower &#; $.99
&#;&#; Reformer, Tower, Cadillac combo &#; $.99
&#;&#; UK version. Exact same reformer, different brand £
&#;&#; With Tower &#; £2,599.00
(as of June )$2,999.99Brand VideosPromo videoSprings2x red
2x yellow
2x greenTelescopic or foldable?NoVertical Storage?NoFrameWoodNotesWeight242.1 lbs (package weight)Reformer L x W&#;96.26&#; x 31.1&#;Weight Capacity&#;Height from floor19.69&#;Carriage width&#;Carriage length&#;Add vertical tower and mat converter?No
- Made of light maple wood with components made of stainless steel and aluminum.
- Two quick-adjustment systems on the foot pedals and spring-loaded bars
- Endurance-tested high-quality springs with a service life of more than 300,000 stretches
- A lot of reformer and features for the money
- Video: Features
Faittd Aluminium Reformer
&#;&#; FAITTD Aluminium Reformer &#; $2,499.99
&#;&#; With Tower &#; $.99
&#;&#; Reformer, Tower, Cadillac combo &#; $.99
&#;&#; UK Exact same reformer, different brand &#; £.00
Faittd Aluminium SpecificationsBrandFaittdModelFaittd Aluminium ReformerAmazon LinkFaittd AluminiumPrice(as of June )$2,999.99Brand VideosPromo VideoSprings2x red
2x yellow
2x greenTelescopic or foldable?NoVertical Storage?NoFrameWoodNotesWeightReformer L x W96.4&#; x 30.4Weight CapacityHeight from floor13.6&#;Carriage widthCarriage lengthAdd vertical tower and mat converter?No
- 6 springs
- Aluminium frame
- Quick-release footrest allows for a quick change of 7 positions
- 8 carriage wheels
- Video: Features
Faittd Foldable Reformer
&#;&#; Faittd Foldable Reformer &#; $1,899.99
&#;&#; UK &#; Same reformer, sold by Deshike &#; £999.99
Faittd Foldable SpecificationsBrandFaittdModelFaittd Folding ReformerAmazon LinkFaittd FoldablePrice(as of June )$1,899.99Brand VideosPromo VideoSprings1x red
2x yellow
2x greenTelescopic or foldable?YesVertical Storage?YesFrameWoodNotesWeight175 lbs (package weight)Reformer L x W103&#; x 28&#;
Weight Capacity300 lbsHeight from floor11&#; &#; 14&#;Carriage widthCarriage lengthAdd vertical tower and mat converter?No
- Faittd&#;s most popular reformer with over 100 reviews, 76% giving it 5/5 stars.
- Up to 300 lbs Weight Capacity
- Frame made of maple wood, parts made of stainless steel and aluminum.
- Adjustable legs
- Video: features
Have something to add or change? Let me know in the comments