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8 Best Pilates Reformers
From leading brands and best sellers available on the web.
Buying Guide for the Best Pilates Reformers
Choosing a Pilates reformer can be a rewarding investment for your fitness journey, whether you want to work out at home, enhance your studio, or address specific health goals. The key to selecting the right reformer is understanding your intended use: are you a beginner looking for general workouts, an enthusiast craving studio-quality options, or a professional needing advanced features for clients? By grasping how different features can support your workouts and fit your space, you can find a reformer you'll love to use for years. Start by considering how much space you have, how often you'll use the equipment, your experience level, and any specific health or fitness needs you may have.Frame MaterialThe frame material determines the reformer’s durability, stability, and overall feel during workouts. Most reformers use either wood or metal. Wood offers a classic look and can feel warmer in home environments, while metal typically provides more durability and is lighter for easier movement. If you want a traditional aesthetic or softer touch, wood is appealing. For heavier or more intense use, like in group settings or professional studios, metal might last longer and handle more frequent adjustments. Think about how much you'll move it and the look you prefer.
Carriage Size and PaddingThe carriage is the part you sit, lie, or stand on, and its size and padding can greatly influence comfort and versatility. A longer carriage suits taller users and allows for a broader range of exercises, while extra padding is helpful for those prioritizing joint comfort or those with sensitive backs. If multiple people of varying heights will use the reformer, look for an adjustable or extra-long carriage. If you have specific comfort needs or joint concerns, extra padding can help make sessions enjoyable and effective.
Spring Resistance SystemSprings provide the resistance for your exercises, affecting the intensity and variety of your workouts. Reformers usually offer a set of color-coded springs for different resistance levels. More springs and finer adjustments mean you can customize workouts for rehabilitation, strength training, or gentle stretching. Beginners or those with injury concerns should look for a wide range of lower resistance options, while advanced users or athletes might desire higher maximum resistance.
Footbar AdjustabilityThe footbar supports your feet in many Pilates moves, and its adjustability allows for more personalized positioning. Multiple positions accommodate different exercise types, body shapes, and flexibility levels. If you or others using the reformer have different heights or want to explore a variety of Pilates techniques, adjustability is key. If you only need the reformer for basic exercises or one user, a fixed or limited-adjustment footbar can be sufficient.
Gear System and AdjustmentsThe gear system lets you change the tension and range of motion for your workout. Advanced gear systems offer more exercise variety and customization. If you enjoy tweaking your workout experience and plan to progress or share the equipment with others, a more adjustable gear system can help you target muscles precisely. Simpler systems work well for basic routines or users who don’t want to make frequent adjustments.
Platform Size and StabilityThe platform at the end of the reformer is where you stand or brace yourself for some exercises. A wider, stable platform adds security, especially for standing moves or users new to Pilates. If balance or confidence is a concern, a larger stable platform could be ideal. Advanced users who want to try challenging moves, or those who plan on shared use, benefit from increased stability.
Storage and PortabilityNot all reformers are meant to stay in one spot. Some fold up or have wheels for easier storage and moving. If your workout space is limited or shared with other activities, look for a reformer that’s easy to tuck away or transport. If you have a dedicated room, a stationary model might offer more stability and features.