Nov. 27, 2024
The Reformer is arguably the most popular Pilates machine, beloved by both traditional Pilates enthusiasts and fans of high-octane group classes. Since studio workouts are on hold in most of the U.S. right now, particularly as the weather gets colder and outdoor Reformer workouts are less appealing, a Reformer of one&#;s own has become an object of desire for many Pilates aficionados. With so many makes, models, and styles to choose from you may need some help deciding which one is right for your home set-up. To help you decide, we&#;ve compiled a handy guide to choosing and purchasing a Reformer for home use.
If you&#;re thinking about buying your own Reformer, congratulations. You must be very committed to practicing Pilates. But how do you know which one to buy, and how can you ensure that it doesn&#;t become an expensive, bulky spot to stash your laundry (we&#;re looking at you, stationary bike!)? The Pilates community is famously tribal, with adherents of traditional Pilates and more contemporary Pilates styles. As might be expected, these predilections apply to a favored make of Reformer. The big names are Gratz ($), known for their fidelity to Joe&#;s original designs and loved by more traditional practitioners, and Balanced Body ($-$), preferred by the contemporary crowd and famous for their innovations and snazzy extras. There are a couple of other manufacturers from whom the consumer can buy directly such as Peak Pilates, Pilates Designs, Merrithew, also known as STOTT, and AeroPilates, but even discount stores like Costco or websites like Overstock now sell Reformers for home use.
One of the first questions you&#;ll need to think about is whether you have space for a Pilates Reformer machine. Depending upon the manufacturer, Reformers are between 80&#; and 100&#; long, and they can weigh more than 100 pounds. The box used for short and long box exercises will add another 12-18 inches to the footprint, as it is typically stored at the back of the Reformer when not in use. Foldable and portable models are a space-saving option, but ask yourself how often you will actually set it up and use it if it&#;s not out in the open. Sometimes, out of sight means out of mind.
Also, think about how you plan to use your home Pilates Reformer. Will you have an instructor teach you one-on-one (either virtually or in-person) in your home studio? Will you be following along with streaming workouts? Or will you be doing a self-directed workout? Depending upon your answer, and your proficiency with spring and equipment changes, you may choose one style of Reformer over another. Gratz Reformers, for example, have four springs, all of which have the same tension, while most Balanced Body Reformers have five springs ranging from heavy to light, each denoted by a distinctive colored tag. More spring options mean more versatility, but also more complexity.
Preference is often a matter of familiarity. For some reason, people tend to prefer the Reformer brand on which they first experienced Pilates. The different springs and dimensions of various brands create a distinctive feel that just seems &#;right." If you are thinking about buying a Pilates machine, most likely it&#;s because you like the equipment you&#;ve been using at your local Pilates studio or health club. In this case, a good place to start is to ask your Pilates instructor what brand or model of Reformer is used in the studio and start your search there.
Once you&#;ve decided on a manufacturer or narrowed down your choice of model, additional options to consider include a choice of several frame materials (wood or aluminum), various colors and types of upholstery, and a slew of upgrades and accessories such as fuzzy foot loops and cushioned footbars. Expect to pay north of $ for a top-of-the-line, studio-quality Reformer, while stripped-down, strictly budget models designed for personal use can be found from $ and up.
Your local studio owner may be selling used equipment. The benefits to this arrangement are that you are already familiar with their Reformers and you will save money on a gently used Reformer. Some Pilates equipment companies offer an affiliate program to local Pilates studios, meaning that if you order your equipment through your local studio, you receive a discount.
Finding a used or second-hand Reformer online is a more affordable option. Sites such as Craigslist are good places to start. Not only will a previously owned Reformer be cheaper than buying new from a manufacturer, but you will also save on shipping if you arrange to pick it up from the seller yourself. If you go this route, make sure that you see the Reformer for yourself and try it out to see how it feels. If you have an instructor you trust, he or she may be able to evaluate it for you before you buy it. Shipping a pre-owned Reformer long distance is not recommended as it may get damaged en route. And just as you would for any big-ticket purchase from an individual you don&#;t know personally, be careful when it comes to transferring funds to the seller.
If you decide that due to space or budget limits a home Pilates Reformer is out of reach, remember that Pilates Mat work is tremendously varied, rigorous, and effective. You can achieve great results using only your own body weight as resistance. If you are worried about getting bored, adding small props such as the Magic Circle, a playground ball and a set of elastic bands can boost the intensity of your Mat work for a much smaller investment and in a much smaller footprint.
Imagine the convenience of having access to your very own home Pilates reformer, allowing you to practice reformer Pilates anytime and at your own pace. Say goodbye to costly classes and scheduling conflicts as we explore the top 10 home Pilates reformers of , expertly reviewed and picked to help you find the perfect match for your fitness needs.
Consider quality, brand reputation, size & space when selecting a home Pilates Reformer.
Our expert picks include the Balanced Body Allegro 2 Reformer (best overall), Peak Pilates Fit Reformer Bundle (best value) and Sportline Superior Reformer Bundle (premium).
Benefits of owning a reformer: convenience, flexibility & improved strength/flexibility/balance/alignment.
Selecting the right home Pilates reformer is essential to ensure you get the most out of your workouts. While there are numerous options available, it&#;s important to consider factors such as:
Quality
Brand reputation
Sizing
Space
Budget
By taking these aspects into account, you can find a reformer that will cater to your specific requirements and enhance your fitness journey.
In the following subsections, we will delve deeper into these factors and provide guidance on how to choose a home Pilates reformer that will best suit your individual needs.
When investing in a Pilates reformer, focusing on quality and brand reputation is of utmost importance. A high-quality reformer from a reputable brand is more likely to stand the test of time, ensuring durability and effectiveness. For example, the Cadillac reformer, which aligns with Joseph Pilates&#; teachings, is known for its excellent construction and versatility.
Moreover, investing in a top-of-the-line reformer with multiple accessories provides the following advantages:
You won&#;t need to upgrade as you progress in your practice
It offers easy portability
It offers adaptability to different exercises and levels of difficulty.
If you&#;re new to reformer Pilates, prioritize safety when selecting a reformer, as this will ensure a solid foundation for your fitness journey.
Before purchasing a Pilates reformer, it&#;s crucial to consider the size of the reformer and the amount of space available in your home. Ensure that there is ample space around the machine for you to move freely and perform exercises that extend beyond the edges of the reformer. For those with limited space, a compact reformer, such as the Microformer Pilates Reformer, may be a suitable option. With a starting price of $990, this model is designed to be highly portable and can be conveniently stored under beds or in closets.
When selecting a Pilates reformer, also consider the design, such as if a foldable or mobile model is necessary. This will ensure that your reformer can be easily moved or stored when not in use, making it a practical addition to your home.
Determine your budget and investment value when choosing a home Pilates reformer, keeping in mind that higher-priced options may offer better quality and features. Home Pilates reformers can range from under $500 to thousands of dollars, with the cost often reflecting the quality and features included.
If you&#;re considering a commercial-grade reformer, be prepared for a higher price tag. However, these machines often come with an extensive selection of features and content, potentially providing better value for your investment. Just make sure to also factor in any additional costs, such as monthly membership fees for content access.
To help you find the perfect home Pilates reformer, we have compiled a list of expert picks for the top home Pilates reformers in various categories.
Best overall
Best value
Best premium
Best for beginners
Best compact
These selections are based on expert opinions, key features, and top-selling, highly rated products to ensure you get the highest-quality experience.
We have taken into account the size of the reformer, the ease of assembly, and the size of the reformer.
The Balanced Body Allegro 2 Reformer is our top pick for the best overall home Pilates reformer. Highly recommended by experts and boasting an average customer rating of 4.8 out of five stars on Amazon, this reformer is a popular choice among Pilates enthusiasts.
Though it comes with a higher price tag, the Allegro 2 Reformer offers features that justify the investment. It includes:
14-inch legs
A multi-adjustment padded foot bar
A seamless carriage
Removable and adjustable shoulder rests
These features provide a versatile and comfortable workout experience.
For those seeking the best value, the Peak Pilates Fit Reformer Bundle is an excellent option. Highly recommended by experts, this reformer features three cords with adjustable resistance levels, a padded cushion, and a foot bar, providing an incredible value for the money.
The Fit Reformer Bundle includes:
Reformer machine
Reformer box
Leg extender
Padded platform extender
With its comprehensive range of accessories and features, this exactly the same reformer is an ideal choice for those looking to get the most out of their investment.
If you&#;re in the market for a premium home Pilates reformer, look no further than the Sportline Superior Reformer Bundle. This top-of-the-line reformer offers a studio-quality experience with its Reformer, Jumpboard, and Sitting Box.
Though it comes with a higher price tag, the Sportline Superior Reformer Bundle is an ideal premium choice for a home Pilates reformer, with its comprehensive selection of features and content. It&#;s an excellent option for those looking to invest in a high-quality, feature-rich machine.
For those just starting their Pilates journey, the Fitkon Pro Reformer Bundle is our top choice. This reformer bundle includes:
Pro Reformer Base
Aluminum Tower
Mat converter
Reformer box
Jumpboard
Reformer Level 1 Book
It is specifically tailored to the needs of beginners.
The Fitkon Pro Reformer Bundle is an excellent option for beginners, as it offers:
A comprehensive and safe introduction to reformer Pilates
With competitive price and timely delivery, gymfrog sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.
The necessary tools and guidance to help you build a strong foundation
The ability to progress in your practice
For those with limited space, the Pilates ProWorks FitFormer is the best compact home Pilates reformer. This space-saving reformer is designed for convenience, featuring a folding frame and built-in wheels for easy transport, as well as removable handlebars for space-saving storage.
The FitFormer is compatible with ProWorks classes and other fitness-focused Pilates style workouts, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maximize their home workouts without compromising on space.
While the expert picks mentioned above are highly recommended, there are also other home Pilates reformers worth considering. In this section, we will explore additional options from:
Merrithew
Align Pilates
BASI Systems
Elina Pilates
This provides you with a comprehensive list of choices to suit your individual needs and preferences.
The Merrithew At Home SPX Reformer Bundle is a popular choice among home Pilates enthusiasts. This premium reformer comes with a variety of accessories, including:
Jumpboard
Leg extender
Reformer box
Padded platform extender
Cardio-Tramp Rebounder
These accessories make it suitable for Pilates practitioners of all levels, whether working with a pilates instructor or independently.
With a price tag of $2,499, the Merrithew At Home SPX Reformer Bundle offers a heavy-duty steel frame, adjustable resistance levels, and a padded platform for comfort. Its comprehensive set of features ensures a rewarding and versatile Pilates workout experience.
The Align Pilates F3 Folding Home Reformer is a fantastic option for those with limited space. Priced at $1,299, this lightweight and portable reformer features adjustable resistance levels and a padded platform for comfort. Its compact and self-contained design allows for easy storage and transportation, making it a practical solution for those looking to enjoy the benefits of a Pilates reformer without taking up too much space in their home. The Align Pilates F3 Folding Home Reformer is an ideal choice for those who have limited mobility.
For those seeking a comprehensive package for home Pilates workouts, the BASI Systems Pilates Reformer Bundle is an excellent choice. Priced at $2,499, this premium reformer offers a range of features, including a heavy-duty steel frame, adjustable resistance levels, and a padded platform for comfort.
The BASI Systems Pilates Reformer Bundle includes:
Jumpboard
Leg extender
Tower system
Mat converter
Sitting box
Foot strap
Handles
This bundle provides a complete and versatile workout solution, including pilates classes, for Pilates practitioners of all levels.
The Elina Pilates Elite Wood Reformer Bundle includes:
Top-quality hardwood frame
Padded jump board
Reformer box
Padded standing platform extender
This stylish and functional foldable pilates reformer provides the best Pilates reformer experience for an elegant and comfortable workout at home or in your local pilates studio, all thanks to the quality pilates reformer machine.
The Elina Pilates Elite Wood Reformer Bundle is an excellent choice for those looking for a high-quality and visually appealing home Pilates reformer, providing a rewarding and effective Pilates workout experience.
Owning a home Pilates reformer provides numerous benefits. The convenience of having access to a reformer at home allows for greater flexibility in scheduling workouts, eliminating the need to book classes in advance and potentially saving on costly membership fees. Additionally, a home reformer enables you to practice at your own pace, further enhancing your fitness progress.
Furthermore, a Pilates reformer offers a wider range of movement than mat Pilates and increased resistance for a more intensive workout. This necessitates greater concentration on form, leading to improved form.
Core stabilization
Strength
Flexibility
Balance
Correct alignment
Setting up your home Pilates reformer requires careful consideration of factors such as location, assembly, and safety. Choose a suitable location with ample space, natural light, and a flat surface, ensuring that you have enough room to move freely and perform exercises that extend beyond the edges of the reformer.
Follow these steps to ensure the proper setup and use of your reformer.
Follow the manufacturer&#;s assembly instructions and, if necessary, opt for in-home assembly services.
Take the time to familiarize yourself with the reformer and its accessories.
Use proper form and technique to prevent injuries and maximize the benefits of your workouts.
If you&#;re new to reformer Pilates, there are several beginner-friendly workouts to help you get started. Exercises such as Reformer Footwork, Leg Circles, and the Hundred can provide a solid foundation for your practice, while also strengthening and toning your body.
To ensure proper form and technique, maintain focus on the following:
Engage your core
Keep your spine in a neutral position
Move slowly and with control
Take deep breaths throughout your exercises
With time and practice under the guidance of a certified pilates instructor, you&#;ll build strength, flexibility, and confidence in your Pilates reformer workouts.
In conclusion, investing in a home Pilates reformer can greatly enhance your fitness journey, providing convenience, flexibility, and a wide range of workout options. By considering factors such as quality, brand reputation, size, and budget, you can find the perfect reformer to suit your individual needs. Our expert picks and additional recommendations offer a variety of options for all levels and preferences, ensuring that you can enjoy the numerous benefits of reformer Pilates in the comfort of your own home. Embrace the transformative power of Pilates and elevate your fitness routine today.
Yes, Reformer Pilates can be done at home with the right equipment and knowledge. Sliders are a great alternative to more expensive reformer machines and most exercises performed in a Pilates studio can be replicated at home.
With the right equipment and knowledge, you can easily do Reformer Pilates at home. Sliders are a great and cost-effective alternative to reformer machines.
For a cheaper alternative to the Pilates Reformer, try looping 2 power bands around sturdy furniture for makeshift Reformers. This will enable you to do exercises such as Back and Front Rowing.
To choose the right home Pilates reformer for you, focus on quality, brand reputation, size, space and budget.
Consider the quality of the reformer. Look for a brand with a good reputation for making reliable and durable reformers. Make sure the reformer is the right size for you and your space. Finally, consider the consequences of your choice.
Owning a home Pilates reformer can provide convenience, flexibility, cost-savings, and improved fitness results to users.
Having your own reformer at home means you can practice Pilates whenever you want, without having to worry about scheduling classes or finding a studio. You can also save money on classes and gym memberships, as well.
When setting up your home Pilates reformer, choose a suitable space with adequate room, natural light, and a level surface. Make sure to read the manufacturer&#;s assembly instructions to ensure proper setup and use.
Want more information on pilates wood reformer? Feel free to contact us.
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