The popularity of Pilates has soared in recent years, transforming it from a niche workout into a mainstream fitness phenomenon. More and more people are looking to create their own home studios that rival the vibe of their favorite studios. With the right equipment, including a top-notch Pilates reformer machine, you can transform your fitness routine and enjoy the same benefits you get in a professional studio setting. I’m excited to share how investing in a Pilates reformer for the home, along with some other high-quality gear, can take your workouts to the next level—all from the comfort of your own space.
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When you’re just starting out with beginner Pilates workouts, you can definitely get by with some basics—think resistance bands, a good mat, maybe a Pilates ring, and some light hand weights. These items are great for beginners and they’re budget-friendly. But if you want to take your Pilates lifestyle to the next level, I highly recommend you consider investing in some higher-end equipment. I’m talking about the real deal—Pilates reformers, rebounders, and chairs. These pieces aren’t just fancy studio eye candy; they can seriously boost your workouts and help you achieve those more complex, challenging moves. Plus, if you’re running a gym or thinking about starting your own Pilates business, this pro-level equipment is a must-have to attract and retain clients. So while the basics are a great starting point, adding more advanced equipment to your arsenal can really transform your Pilates practice and open up a whole new world of exercises and benefits.
Furthermore, as Pilates grew in popularity in recent years, virtual fitness platforms expanded, offering more accessible, virtual home workout options. You can now access some of the best online Pilates classes on fitness apps for a lower monthly subscription cost than you would pay to attend just one in-person class at an actual Pilates studio.
So, what exactly is a Pilates reformer? Think of it as a fancy workout machine that looks a bit like a bed with a variety of attachments. It has a sliding carriage, springs for resistance, and straps with handles that let you perform a ton of different exercises. Honestly, it looks a bit like a medieval torture device, but I promise it’s a lot more fun!
The Pilates reformer was invented by Joseph Pilates to enhance his method of physical conditioning. He came up with the idea during World War I while working with injured soldiers, using bed springs to create resistance exercises that helped them rebuild strength and flexibility. The reformer was designed to help people improve their core strength, flexibility, balance, and overall body alignment. It’s incredibly versatile, with exercises that can be adapted for all fitness levels, making it perfect for everyone from beginners to seasoned pros. Today, it’s a staple in Pilates studios everywhere because of how effective it is at transforming your body.
Pilates reformer machines are the real MVPs in any top-notch Pilates studio. Because of their incredible versatility, they can take your workout to a whole new level. Seriously, reformers are like the Swiss Army knives of the Pilates world. Reformers provide a level of resistance and support that will challenge your body in ways that mat Pilates just can’t match. They are designed to support your body while challenging your muscles, so you can really focus on form and control. Trust me, once you’ve experienced a reformer workout, you’ll understand why these machines are a must-have for any serious Pilates studio.
While Pilates reformers are essential, they aren’t the only piece of equipment you’ll want to consider when you’re upgrading your studio. For example, a sitting box is a great complement to Pilates reformer machines as it can be used for a variety of abdominal and side-stretching exercises. Then there’s the Pilates arc or barrel, which offers spine support and stability and can help improve posture and balance. Both sitting boxes and arcs can be used with a reformer or on their own. Bosu balls, with their unstable surface, can make some basic exercises more challenging and help improve balance. TRX straps are also useful for adding resistance to traditional Pilates exercises and increasing balance and flexibility. If you’re looking to up the sweat factor, rebounders (or mini trampolines) are a low-impact way to combine cardio with Pilates. Lastly, if you’re short on space but still want that studio feel, definitely check out a wall-mounted springboard. It’s basically a vertical reformer that you can fold away when you’re done. Adding these pieces to your studio can really take your Pilates workouts to the next level while keeping things fresh and challenging!
If you’re ready to take your Pilates workouts to the next level, I’ve got you covered. All of the items on my list are Amazon best sellers, and I personally own and use several of them!
When selecting a Pilates reformer, there are some key features to look for. For one, you’ll want to consider the amount of space you have since reformers can take up a lot of room. Fortunately, there are foldable and compact models that can work well in smaller spaces. Quality also should not be overlooked. In addition to high quality materials and sound construction, reliable customer service and readily available replacement parts are vital. In the event that a component breaks, you’ll need to replace it before it will be fully operational. Therefore, it’s also wise to ensure there are instructional videos on how to fix the reformer you choose.
It’s important to remember that Pilates reformer machines require regular maintenance for safety as well as performance. Springs, wheels, ropes, and straps will inevitably experience wear and tear and need to be replaced periodically. Personally I choose to work with Balanced Body for all of my at home Pilates studio equipment needs simply for the fact they have exceptional customer service. They have helped me figure out the exact replacement parts I need or additional equipment to keep my reformers in tip-top shape. Plus they have instructional videos for repairs and maintenance. This alone is worth the investment so my equipment is never out of commission!
Abs-olutely! At home Pilates can be super effective! With the right equipment and a little motivation, you can get an amazing workout that strengthens your core and improves flexibility without leaving your house. Plus, the convenience of being able to fit in a session whenever it works for you makes it easier to stick with your routine and see those awesome results!
Yes, Pilates reformer machines really do work wonders for your body. They provide a unique blend of resistance and support that helps you build strength, improve flexibility, and enhance your overall alignment, all while being gentle on your joints. Using a reformer can take your Pilates practice to the next level and help you achieve those fitness goals you’ve been dreaming about!
The reformer focuses on resistance training, which is fantastic for toning and strengthening muscles; however, it’s generally best to combine it with some cardiovascular workouts for a well-rounded fitness routine.
While Pilates reformers are fantastic tools for enhancing your workout, they do come with a few disadvantages. For example, they can be quite pricey, they require regular maintenance, and they can take some getting used to at first. But considering the reformer’s effectiveness, I truly feel the benefits far outweigh the cons if your budget allows for it.
The Balanced Body Allegro 2 Pilates Reformer is truly a game-changer in my home studio, and I can’t recommend it highly enough! With its sleek design and innovative features like the adjustable Infinity Footbar, this reformer provides a smooth and versatile workout experience for all levels. As someone who personally owns and uses this machine, I can attest to its durability and effectiveness—it’s a fantastic investment for anyone looking to elevate their Pilates practice!
The original Balanced Body Allegro Reformer is also exceptional and popular for its practicality and versatility. It’s also easy to move, a bonus in spaces where the reformer needs to be repositioned. With features like a wide adjustable footbar and a smooth, quiet carriage ride, plus a lower price point than the Allegro 2, this reformer is worth a look!
The Faittd Foldable Pilates Reformer is a fantastic space-saving solution for anyone looking to enjoy an advanced Pilates workout at home. With its ability to fold easily for storage under the bed or in an upright position, this reformer is perfect for those with limited space. Made from durable maple wood and equipped with high-quality springs, it offers a smooth and quiet carriage ride.
The Merrithew Pilates Reformer Package is an exceptional all-in-one solution for enhancing your at home Pilates experience. Designed to deliver a full-body workout, this package includes the At Home SPX Reformer, which features adjustable springs for variable resistance, a padded platform extender, and a versatile footbar for maximum comfort and support. It also comes with accessories like a reformer box and a metal roll-up pole, plus 60 days of access to digital workouts on Merrithew Connect!
The Faittd Pilates Wall-mounted Springboard is an innovative piece of equipment allows you to perform a wide range of exercises with adjustable spring resistance. With its sleek design and ability to mount securely on the wall, it’s an ideal choice for anyone wanting to incorporate more dynamic movements into their Pilates routine while saving valuable floor space!
The Balanced Body Standard Sitting Box is a must-have for anyone looking to expand their reformer workouts, and I can personally vouch for its effectiveness! With its thick padding and three-handle design, this box is perfect for a variety of exercises, from abdominal strengthening to side stretching. It fits seamlessly with all Balanced Body reformer machines, making it a versatile addition to your home Pilates studio.
The Balanced Body Pilates Sitting Box Lite is a lightweight and budget-friendly option that brings versatility to your reformer workouts without breaking the bank. Weighing just 4.5 lbs, this durable foam box features a textured top for a stable, non-slip surface and convenient cut-outs for easy handling. Perfect for adding new exercises like prone stretches and abdominal work, it allows you to enjoy all the benefits of a traditional sitting box at a fraction of the cost!
The Balanced Body Pilates Arc is another versatile piece of equipment that’s perfect for enhancing your Pilates practice. It’s great for a variety of exercises targeting your core, back, and overall body strength. Plus it can double as a spine corrector or reformer wedge. This Pilates Arc is part of my own studio repertoire, and I highly recommend it! The Pilates Arc is an essential addition for anyone looking to elevate their Pilates practice and improve their flexibility.
The Balanced Body EXO Pilates Chair is a compact and durable workout machine that I personally own and use in my studio, and I absolutely love it! With its lightweight frame and unique split pedal feature, this chair offers a wide range of exercises that enhance strength, stability, and body control. It’s perfect for both home use and group classes, and it doesn’t take up a lot of room. Subscribe to my YouTube channel for my lower body Pilates chair workout!
While not specifically for Pilates, the Bosu Ball is an incredibly versatile piece of equipment that I personally own and highly recommend. This balance trainer can be used for strength training, cardio, and flexibility exercises, making it perfect for all types of workouts. Its durable, burst-resistant design ensures safety during workouts, and the ability to use it on either side adds even more variety to your training sessions—it’s a must-have for any home gym!
The JumpSport Fitness Rebound Trampoline offers a fun, low-impact way to get your heart rate up while working out your core. It’s super durable and has a 40% reduction in impact compared with other rebounders. Plus it’s virtually silent! The detachable handle bar provides stability, and it can also be used for doing pull-ups. This rebound trampoline is a staple in my studio and I highly recommend it for in-home, low-impact cardio!
The BCAN Mini Trampoline is a fantastic way to add some heart-pumping fun to your Pilates routine. The adjustable foam handle adds stability, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. Newly upgraded in 2024, it features a foldable design, easy assembly, and supports up to 450 pounds. It’s perfect for indoor use and working out your core!
The TRX GO Suspension Trainer System is an incredible tool for anyone looking to get a full-body workout anywhere, anytime! This portable suspension trainer uses your body weight for resistance, so it’s perfect for beginners and fitness pros alike. The TRX system offers many benefits, including improved posture, flexibility, and core strength. Be sure to check out my TRX Pilates Abs class on the PILATESBODY On-Demand app!
If you’re new to Pilates, there’s absolutely no rush to invest in high-end equipment. Sticking with the basics in the beginning is perfectly fine and will help you build your foundation. However, if you’re ready to explore the incredible benefits that reformers and other advanced equipment can offer, it’s definitely worth considering the investment. Not only can they enhance your workouts, but they can also bring a new level of fun and challenge to your routine. Just remember, when diving into more advanced equipment, getting guidance from a qualified Pilates instructor (like me!) can make all the difference. This can help ensure you’re using the equipment safely and effectively. Drop a comment below if you have any questions!
If you are a Pilates at-home beginner and are ready to start your workouts, here are 3 of our favorite Pilates for beginners classes on the PILATESBODY On-Demand App to help you get started with Pilates at home today! Check them out below. New subscribers can enjoy 1 Month FREE of PILATESBODY On-Demand using the code FREETRIAL at checkout. Get unlimited access to Pilates workouts designed for all experience levels, body types, and ages of life.
Your Friend & Pilates Expert,
Kayla Brugger
Founder of PILATESBODY by Kayla
Founder of PILATESBODY On-Demand
Hi, I'm Kayla Brugger. Certified Pilates Instructor & Minnesota Mama of 2.
