Pilates Home Reformer buy guide 2024

Pilates Home Reformer Buy Guide 2024

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 accommodating a wider range of exercises and user weights. They maintain their value well if you decide to sell in the future, although they require a larger upfront investment.

Manufacturers typically create home versions of their studio reformers, which tend to be more portable and easier to store. While they may be slightly smaller and have fewer adjustability options and features, this usually does not significantly impact your practice.

Size: Consider where your Reformer will reside. Will it have a permanent location? If space is a concern, or if you enjoy rearranging, consider a model that can stand upright or fold in half for easier storage and movement. Reformers typically range from 80” to 100” in length.

Price: Reformers can be costly. Determine whether you are comfortable with a model that is similar but not identical to a studio Reformer. While high-quality reformers are an investment, there are more affordable options available. Be sure to evaluate features and durability against price, as investing in a quality machine will yield long-term benefits. Buying directly from the manufacturer may also be more economical—always check prices with shipping included!

Try Before You Buy: Whenever feasible, try out Reformers before purchasing. Here are some methods to do this:

• Take a lesson at a studio with the reformer you’re interested in, which is ideal for experiencing the specific machine.
• Attend industry events that showcase Pilates equipment to test various models from different manufacturers.
• Explore online resources. Many manufacturers provide instructional videos or online tutorials featuring their reformer models in action.

When trying out reformers, consider factors such as adjustability, padding comfort, and the noise level of the springs/carriage.

To ensure long-term use and peace of mind, research the manufacturer’s parts availability, customer service, and consumer rights and protection, especially with off-brand models.

Buying Used: Top brand reformers can last a lifetime with occasional maintenance. Local studios may sell gently used Reformers, offering familiarity and potential savings. Sites like Craigslist may have good deals, but ensure to try before you buy, particularly if payment is direct. If paying the seller directly, your funds may not be protected. Platforms such as eBay offer buyer protection if the reformer isn’t as described or is damaged during transit.

Considering a pre-owned reformer? Check out 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 provide buyer protection if the reformer isn’t as described or is damaged in transit. Additionally, eBay refunds scams, whereas payment through services like Paypal or banks may not yield support. Ideally, it’s best to pay when you collect the reformer.

Get to Know the Brands from This Buy Guide:

Balanced Body: Founded by Ken Endelman, Balanced Body started as a one-man furniture workshop, inspired by a client's request for a better Reformer design. Today, it is the world’s leading Pilates apparatus manufacturer, renowned for quality, innovation, and exceptional customer service, with all apparatus hand-made in Sacramento, California.

STOTT/Merrithew: STOTT Pilates, founded by Lindsay and Moira Merrithew, builds on Joseph Pilates’ work, incorporating modern biomechanics into their reforms. Their adjustable features and high-quality construction offer durability suitable for studios and home settings.

Flexia: Founded in Sacramento, Flexia focuses on innovative design with their Flexia Smart Reformer and accompanying accessories. They promote a virtual community and provide excellent customer service.

Elina: Originating in Spain, Elina Pilates is known for its rigorous quality checks and a high-quality product range. Their reformers are praised for their smooth operation and adaptability across different body types.

Align-Pilates: This British brand leads in Pilates apparatus in Europe, offering a range of equipment with exceptional performance-to-price ratios. Known for innovative designs, they ensure a broad selection of parts and accessories for Pilates businesses.

Stamina: Established in Springfield, Missouri, Stamina Products offers affordable, functional reformers primarily for home use, such as the AeroPilates reformer, which is renowned for customer satisfaction.

Gratz: As the original manufacturer of Pilates apparatus, Gratz focuses on authenticity and quality, ensuring equipment adheres to Joseph Pilates' original vision.

FAITTD: A newer brand from China, FAITTD aims to provide quality reformers at competitive prices, receiving positive feedback on customer service and product assembly.

The Best Home Reformers (Studio Standard)

These reformers are all studio standard, allowing Towers to be fitted, with a Cadillac in some models.

Balanced Body Studio Reformer: Starting at $6,975.00.

• Considered the gold standard for Pilates by many instructors.
• Used in all Club Pilates studios.
• Known for its smooth carriage ride and durability.
• Constructed from solid maple wood and has a weight capacity of 300 lbs.

Recommended Home Reformers

These reformers may be slightly smaller than studio variants and often incorporate slightly less robust materials.

Merrithew At Home SPX® Reformer Package: $3,199.99

• Traditional rope system.
• Includes Reformer Box with Footstrap and Padded Platform Extender.
• Renowned for quality and craftsmanship.

Balanced Body Metro IQ: $2,295.00

• Lightweight, foldable design for easy movement.
• The best of professional-grade features in a compact model.

Align-Pilates F3 Folding Reformer: $2,900.00

Top Extra-Long Home Reformers

Balanced Body Allegro Stretch: $3,745.00.

Top Acceptable Reformers

Stamina AeroPilates Pro 565: $1,199.00

Faittd

These reformers can be cheaper directly from their website, but buyer protection, customer service, and spare parts availability can be lacking. However, their construction quality receives favorable reviews.

The Ultimate Pilates Reformer At Home Buying Guide

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, choosing the right one can be confusing. This guide outlines crucial considerations to help you make an informed decision.

Space Considerations for Your Pilates Reformer

Before purchasing a reformer, consider where you will use and store it. It's advised to have at least 12" of space at each end and 24" on each side for safe practice. A typical commercial Pilates machine occupies 93” x 24.5.” Ensure your chosen reformer won't take up more space than necessary.

Who Will Use the Reformer?

It is vital to choose a reformer that fits all household members comfortably to ensure everyone can work out effectively.

Easy Assembly and Use

Choose a reformer that is easy to assemble without the need for professional assistance. Ensure that different users can easily adjust the machine to fit their specific needs.

Key Adjustment Features of the Flexia

• Removable padded footbar
• One-hand adjustment springbar
• Adjustable shoulder rests
• Easily adjustable ropes
• Two-position headrest

Personalized Technological Feedback

The Flexia Reformer comes with sensor technology that provides real-time feedback and tracks progress.

Overall Value for Price

The Flexia Smart Reformer, retailing for $3,500.00, offers excellent value when combined with necessary accessories. For a more comprehensive package, the Flexia Smart Reformer + All-In Bundle is available for $4,000.00.

For more information, please visit our website and check out the classical pilates reformer.