Pilates is a popular form of exercise that has gained a lot of popularity in recent years. It is a low-impact workout that focuses on building strength, flexibility, and endurance. One of the most important pieces of equipment used in Pilates is the reformer machine. Pilates reformer machines are specially designed to help people perform a wide range of exercises that are beneficial for the entire body.
When it comes to Pilates reformer machines, there are many options available in the market. Some are designed for beginners, while others are meant for advanced users.
The key to finding the best Pilates reformer machine is to consider your fitness level, budget, and personal preferences.
One of the critical things to look for when purchasing a Pilates reformer machine is the quality of the machine. The machine should be sturdy, durable, and able to withstand regular use. It should also be comfortable to use, with a padded carriage and adjustable foot bar.
In this article, we spent countless hours researching and testing various Pilates reformer machines to help you find the best one for your needs. We have identified the top five Pilates reformer machines that offer the best value for your money. Our recommendations are based on factors such as quality, durability, comfort, and price.
Here are our top five picks for the best Pilates reformer machines:
-
Balanced Body Studio Reformer: This reformer machine is perfect for both beginners and advanced users. It is well-built, comfortable to use, and offers a wide range of exercises.
-
Merrithew At Home SPX Reformer Bundle: This reformer machine is perfect for home use and comes with everything you need to get started. It is easy to set up, comfortable to use, and offers a wide range of exercises.
-
Stamina AeroPilates Pro XP 557 Home Pilates Reformer: This reformer machine is perfect for those who want a challenging workout. It is sturdy, durable, and offers a wide range of exercises.
-
Pilates Power Gym Pro: This reformer machine is perfect for those who want a compact and portable machine. It is easy to set up, comfortable to use, and offers a wide range of exercises.
-
Peak Pilates MVe Fitness Chair: This reformer machine is perfect for those who want a versatile machine that can be used for both Pilates and cardio workouts. It is well-built, comfortable to use, and offers a wide range of exercises.
Best Pilates Reformer Machines
We've researched and tested various Pilates reformer machines to bring you the best options on the market. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced Pilates practitioner, a reformer machine can help you improve your strength, flexibility, and overall fitness.
Our list includes reformer machines that are durable, adjustable, and comfortable to use. We've also considered the price range to make sure there's an option for every budget.
Read on to find the perfect Pilates reformer machine for your home gym.
ELINA PILATES Reformer Master Instructor Fisio with Tower, Foot bar, and Ultra-quiet Cart
If you're looking for a high-quality Pilates reformer machine with a tower, foot bar, and ultra-quiet cart, the ELINA PILATES Reformer Master Instructor Fisio is worth considering.
Pros
- The tower is made of aluminum with hexagonal profiles, making it easy to grip and preventing slipping.
- The height-adjustable pulleys allow for a wide range of exercises.
- The ultra-quiet cart has eight special polyurethane wheels and high precision bearings, making it easy to move around without disturbing others.
Cons
- The machine is quite heavy, weighing in at 190 kilograms.
- The price is on the higher end compared to other Pilates reformer machines.
- Some users may find it difficult to assemble on their own.
The ELINA PILATES Reformer Master Instructor Fisio is designed with contemporary lines and high-quality finishes, making it an attractive addition to any home gym. The structure is made of light-toned American maple wood, which is both durable and aesthetically pleasing.
The tower is one of the standout features of this machine, with its hexagonal profiles and quick system for changing the position of all its components. The pulleys are height-adjustable and numbered on both sides, allowing you to perform exercises on both sides of the tower. The adjustable hooks for the placement of springs or elastics on both the front and back add to the versatility of this machine.
The foot bar is padded to prevent slipping of feet and hands and has a seven-position "Quick reléase" quick change system. The mechanism that allows the foot bar to be moved horizontally makes it easy to perform a large number of exercises.
The ultra-quiet cart is another great feature of this machine, thanks to its eight special polyurethane wheels and high precision bearings. The retractable automatic rope collection system allows you to store them in the lower part of the trolley, keeping them out of the way when not in use. The sophisticated damping mechanism of the bed allows you to perform exercises in a gentle way, avoiding noise and sudden bumps. The adjustable padded shoulder pads make it easy to get on and off the machine, while the springs made of high-quality alloy with great durability provide optimal resistance.
The ELINA PILATES Reformer Master Instructor Fisio also comes with a three-position adjustable headrest and a removable mat for easy placement. The side finish of the mat facilitates its grip, preventing it from slipping during exercise.
Balanced Body Allegro 2 Pilates Reformer
If you're looking for a complete Pilates Reformer that's perfect for home use or professional Pilates studios, the Allegro 2 Pilates Reformer from Balanced Body is an excellent choice. With its sturdy, low-maintenance design and professional features, this Pilates Reformer is ideal for those looking to optimize their Pilates workout.
Pros
- Enjoy a peaceful and quiet carriage ride with the SoftTouch rope system.
- The included Infinity Footbar adjusts to 4 vertical positions and 9 horizontal positions for maximum versatility.
- The Allegro 2 features 5 Signature Balanced Springs that allow you to create the right resistance for your workout.
Cons
-
The Allegro 2 is a bit on the heavy side, making it difficult to move around. - Some users may find the price point to be a bit high.
- The carriage may shift slightly during use, which can be distracting.
The Allegro 2 Pilates Reformer features a secure built-in maple wood standing platform, a 3-position headrest, and ergonomically correct and easy-to-remove risers and shoulder rests. The Reformer also comes with a 15-inch steel footbar that can adjust to 4 vertical positions, including down, and 9 horizontal positions along the entire length of the frame. The footbar features a comfortable grippy cover for more secure hand and foot placement.
One of the things we appreciate about the Allegro 2 is its high-quality construction. The Reformer is made from durable anodized aluminum with premium black upholstery for the perfect mix of form and function. The peaceful, quiet carriage ride is also a nice touch, making for a more relaxing and enjoyable workout experience.
ELINA PILATES Reformer Master Instructor with Tower
If you're looking for a high-quality pilates reformer machine, the ELINA PILATES Reformer Master Instructor with Tower is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The aluminium tower with hexagonal profiles provides a firm grip and prevents slipping, making it easy to change the position of all components quickly.
- The height-adjustable pulleys and numbered sides allow for exercises on both sides of the tower.
- The adjustable hooks for the placement of springs or elastics on both the front and back provide versatility for workouts.
Cons
- The bulky size of the machine may be difficult to store in smaller spaces.
- The high price point may not be accessible for all budgets.
- The machine may require some assembly, which can be time-consuming.
This reformer machine is designed with contemporary lines and high-quality finishes, making it an attractive addition to any home gym. The structure is made of light-toned American maple wood, which is durable and long-lasting.
The ultra-quiet trolley has eight special polyurethane wheels and high-precision bearings, making it easy to move around without disturbing others. The sophisticated damping mechanism of the bed allows for gentle exercises, avoiding noise and sudden bumps. The adjustable padded shoulder pads make it easy to get on and off the machine, while the springs made of high-quality alloy provide optimal resistance.
The ELINA PILATES Reformer Master Instructor with Tower comes with a removable mat for easy placement, thanks to its side finish that facilitates its grip. The machine also includes a padded box and skipping board, which can be used for a variety of exercises.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Stamina AeroPilates Pro XP 557 Home Pilates Reformer | $1,199 | Adjustable resistance, four cords, large trapeze bar |
| Balanced Body Studio Reformer | $3,195 | Smooth and quiet ride, adjustable footbar, available in different colors |
| Merrithew At Home SPX Reformer Bundle | $2,999 | Four adjustable resistance cords, padded platform extender, instructional DVDs |
AeroPilates Reformer 287 - Pilates Reformer Workout Machine for Home Gym - Pilates Reformer with 3 Resistance Cords - Up to 300 lbs Weight Capacity
We highly recommend the AeroPilates Reformer 287 for those looking for an affordable and effective Pilates reformer machine for home use. This machine provides a customizable workout experience with its three-cord elastic resistance, allowing users of all experience levels to adjust the intensity to their liking.
Pros
- The machine is designed for comfort with a wide, cushioned platform, high-density foam shoulder pads, and foam grips for extended relaxation during movement.
- The AeroPilates Reformer 287 comes with three expert-guided Pilates reformer DVDs workouts, providing users with a variety of workout options.
- With regular use, this machine can tone and tighten every muscle, improve muscle tone, strength, cardio, flexibility, range-of-motion, and centering/relaxation of the mind.
Cons
- The springs are not labeled, which can be confusing for beginners.
- The machine is a bit heavy, making it difficult to move around.
- Some exercises may be limited due to the machine's three-cord elastic resistance.
ELINA PILATES Lignum Reformer
If you're looking for a pilates reformer that offers professional-grade features at a reasonable price, the ELINA PILATES Lignum Reformer is a great option.
Pros
- The light-toned beech wood structure and parts made of stainless steel and aluminum make this reformer durable and long-lasting.
- The quick adjustment systems on the footbar and spring bar allow for a comfortable and unrestricted workout.
- The adjustable spring bar, headrest, and height adjustable pulleys make it easy to customize the machine to your needs.
Cons
- At 139 pounds, this reformer is quite heavy and may be difficult to move around.
- Some users may find the assembly process to be challenging.
- The Lignum Reformer is on the pricier side compared to other home reformers.
The Lignum Reformer comes with a variety of features, including a padded footbar with a quick release system, a trolley system with eight polyurethane wheels, and a string adjustment with a cleat system. The machine also includes two strong springs, two medium springs, and one light spring, allowing for a wide range of resistance options.
One of the standout features of the Lignum Reformer is its light-toned beech wood structure, which is both beautiful and durable. The machine also comes with high-quality upholstery that can withstand intensive use.
While the Lignum Reformer is on the heavier side, the trolley system with eight polyurethane wheels makes it easy to move around once assembled. However, some users may find the assembly process to be challenging and time-consuming.
Buying Guide
When choosing the best Pilates reformer machine, there are several factors to consider. Here, we'll break down the key features to look for and provide some tips to help you make an informed decision.
Key Features to Consider
-
Size: Consider the size of the reformer machine, as it should fit comfortably in your workout space.
Measure the area where you plan to use the reformer and ensure that the machine you choose fits within those dimensions.
-
Resistance: The resistance level of the reformer machine is an important factor to consider.
Look for machines with adjustable resistance levels, as this will allow you to increase or decrease the intensity of your workouts.
-
Comfort: Look for a machine with comfortable padding and adjustable foot straps.
This will help ensure that you are able to maintain proper form and prevent injury.
-
Durability: It's important to choose a reformer machine that is built to last.
Look for machines made with high-quality materials and sturdy construction.
Tips for Choosing the Best Pilates Reformer Machine
-
Read Reviews: Look for reviews and testimonials from other users. This will give you an idea of the machine's performance and durability.
-
Consider Your Skill Level: If you are new to Pilates, look for a machine designed for beginners. If you are more experienced, look for a machine with more advanced features.
-
Set a Budget: Pilates reformer machines can vary significantly in price. Set a budget before you start shopping. This will ensure that you can find a machine that meets your needs without breaking the bank.
-
Try Before You Buy: If possible, try out different machines before making a purchase. This will allow you to get a feel for the machine and ensure that it is comfortable and easy to use.