Pilates has improved over the years. There are now more different types of exercises involved in the practice. One of the most popular these days is the reformer Pilates. If you want to take your workout to the next level and get better results, you should get and use a Pilates reformer.
This article explored varieties of Pilates reformers for sale online for an easier shopping journey. This article lists some of the best and highest-quality machines you can get. Whether you’re a beginner or advanced, determine which would suit you best.
How We Picked the Best Pilates Reformers
You need to consider numerous factors when finding and evaluating reformer machines. Here are the things we looked for in a Pilates reformer:
Durability
The materials used for the different parts of the reformer may vary. It’s important to check each material and its overall build to ensure the machine’s durability.
It’s recommended to go for models with metal or wooden frames. At the same time, it’s best if the platform and foot bar have cushions for comfort, safety, and better functionality. All of these together can make a durable machine that you can surely use for a long time without a problem.
Size
The ideal reformer for you suits both your home and your height. To ensure you’re getting the right size, consider the available space you have and measure it beforehand.
Different brands manufacture reformers in different sizes, and we make sure to consider this factor. They’re typically 80 to 100 inches long and 20 to 30 inches wide. You can use a compact, folding reformer if you have limited space or an extra-long one if you’re tall.
Cost
The price of the reformers is an important factor to consider, as some people may not have the budget to get expensive models. Most Pilates reformers on the market cost at least $1,000, but there are quality ones that you can buy for a lower price point. These ranges were considered to ensure you can get a good machine within your budget.
Adjustability
A Pilates reformer needs to be customizable to suit your body, routines, and skill level. The more adjustable a machine is, the more comfortable and ideal it is to use. Each machine has different adjustable features, so it’s important to check them and ensure they can keep up with your needs.
Resistance
Pilates workouts use resistance to challenge the practitioner and help them achieve their fitness goals. Reformers use two types of resistance systems: springs and cords. Spring resistances usually come in five different strength levels, each identified by a color. Meanwhile, cords are just replacements or alternatives to springs.
Both are good, so you should go for reformers that use springs if you want to enjoy various levels of resistance for a long time. Metal springs are known to be more durable so this way, you can challenge yourself and improve your routines over time.
Accessories
Accessories can be useful in performing certain exercises. They can also make each session more challenging, comfortable, and enjoyable. To get the most out of your money and sessions, make sure that the reformer you’re buying comes with accessories you think would be useful for specific fitness goals. Most reformers come with these accessories:
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Hand and feet straps: These will allow you to target your arms, shoulders, hips, legs, and joints during balance and stability exercises.
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Shoulder rests: They’re usually cushioned to provide support and comfort during exercises where you’re lying down.
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Tower: This will allow you to move your body in new ways and help with spinal alignment and strengthening of the feet. You can also use it to attach other accessories.
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Balancing bars: These help in improving your overall coordination and balance.
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Loops: They provide additional support for your hands and feet while working out.
12 Best Pilates Reformers to Achieve Your Fitness Goals
Best Overall: Balanced Body Allegro 2 Reformer
The Balanced Body Allegro 2 is a popular piece of equipment used in many Pilates studios. If you’ve attended some in-person classes, you’ve likely used them as they are known to stand out best in business. It has a modern look and a durable and sturdy build. Compared to bulkier machines, especially wooden ones, this has a slimmer design as it’s mostly made of aluminum.
It offers a lot of adjustable features, including its headrest. You can adjust it into three different settings to facilitate a more comfortable feeling when exercising. It also has a footbar to move up and down the rails easily. Its carriage even comes with removable padding.
Specifications:
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 93.25 x 31 x 9 or 15 inches
- Weight: 133 lbs
- Springs: 5
Pros:
- Strong and durable springs
- Commercial-grade frame
- It can be bought with an optional wheel kit
- Perfect for commercial and home use
- Supports a wide range of workouts
Cons:
- On the expensive side
- It can be time-consuming to set up
Best Value: AeroPilates Foldable Reformer 4420
The AeroPilates Foldable Reformer 4420 is a top option if you're on a budget. You can achieve your fitness goals with this comprehensive reformer at a more affordable price. It has a padded foot bar that you can swap with a cardio rebounder, which also comes with the unit. It also features four levels of resistance and a collection of cords, from light to heavy and standard.
This reformer offers an upgraded pulling system. If you’re new to Pilates, it can be a good starting machine as it comes with workout DVDs that you can follow. However, remember that this sits directly on the ground, meaning it doesn’t have legs or stands. This may limit your movements when working out.
Specifications:
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 86 x 21 x 26 inches
- Weight: 68 lbs
- Springs: None
Pros:
- Quality entry-level reformer
- It comes with built-in wheels and is foldable for easy storage
- It can be used for box exercises
- Adjustable head and neck rest
Cons:
- It uses cords instead of springs
Best for Beginners: AeroPilates Pro XP 557 Reformer
The Pro XP 557 from AeroPilates is another option for an easy-to-use reformer. Many pros also use it as it has a few upgraded features from the other models from AeroPilates. Unlike the previous unit, this uses heavy-duty resistance springs and a larger cardio rebounder. You can use this for a stronger cardio workout.
Its headrest has three positioning options, and it has a padded footbar. This reformer is 15 inches above the ground, unlike the 4420. Reviewers and former users have reported how well-constructed and sturdy this is.
Specifications:
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 98 x 23.5 x 36 inches
- Weight: 133 lbs
- Springs: 4
Pros:
- It can be stored vertically
- Stylish wooden trim design
- It uses spring resistance
- Long rails, so it’s suitable for tall users
- It comes with workout DVDs
Cons:
- Not foldable
Best Foldable: Align Pilates F3 Folding Home Reformer Machine
Space can be a common problem when setting up and using workout equipment like reformers. But with the Align Pilates F3 Folding Home reformer, you can save on space when you’re not working out. It has professional-grade springs that offer good resistance during workouts. You can even adjust them to your individual needs.
This reformer can be easily folded into a self-contained unit. This and its wheels make storage and mobility easier. You don’t have to worry about lifting it as it weighs the same as a heavy suitcase.
Specifications:
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 95 x 27.6 x 9 inches
- Weight: 128 lbs
- Springs: 4
Pros:
- It offers 3-position headrest
- Adjustable feet for stability
- It’s easy to assemble
Cons:
- Low to the ground
Best Cadillac: Elina Pilates Cadillac Reformer
A Cadillac is another Pilates piece of equipment that many people use. You can get the Elina Pilates Cadillac Reformer if you want the best of both worlds. It’s a Cadillac and a reformer in one, making it a cost-effective unit option. You can use it for rehabilitation, at home, or in studios.
It’s a simple machine that provides the full functionality of a commercial-grade Cadillac and a reformer. It comes with drop-in mats that are easy to use and an adjustable push-through bar. The bar even comes with a safety strap to ensure safe workout sessions.
Specifications:
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 94.5 x 30.7 x 84 inches
- Weight: 386 lbs
- Springs: 4 long and 6 bed springs
Pros:
- It offers a lot of equipment to use for different Pilates workouts
- Padded foot stopper
- Wooden plus metal frames
Cons:
- Expensive
Best Wooden: BASI Reformer with Tower
Since wood is a durable material, the BASI Reformer with Tower is one of your most durable options. You can use it alone or as a reformer with a tower and raised mat. It also has one of the longest and widest carriages in the market and industry.
It has an orthopedic padded cushion that extends the full width of the frame. This makes it comfortable and stable to use. It also offers an adjustable headrest, foot bar, and shoulder rests for easy customization based on your needs.
Specifications:
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 100 x 28.4 x 70.9 inches (with tower)
- Weight: 224.8 lbs
- Springs: 5 (reformer only)
Pros:
- The tower offers a lot of resistance as well
- It comes with a wide range of accessories
- It has silicon wheels for easy and quick mobility
- It has four ports for an F2 system
Cons:
- Very expensive
Best Bundle: Merrithew At Home SPX Reformer Bundle
For an entire Pilates reformer system, the Merrithew At Home SPX Reformer Bundle is our top pick. This next-level machine is a good choice for advanced Pilates practitioners. Its springs offer strong resistance and tension, which is useful for advanced workouts.
As a bundle, this comes with a wide range of accessories. These include a metal roll-up pole, a reformer box, and even 60-day access to digital workouts. It’s also packed with a lot of adjustable features, like six carriage stopper positions, three headrest positions, and four-foot bar positions. It’s a high-quality whole package.
Specifications:
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 96.5 x 26 x 10 inches (reformer only)
- Weight: 115 lbs (reformer only)
- Springs: 5
Pros:
- It has a vertical frame so that you can fold it up
- It comes fully assembled
- Sturdy and durable reformer and accessories
Cons:
- Shoulder rests aren’t adjustable and can’t be removed
- Not recommended to beginners
Best Heavy-Duty: Reform RX Pilates Reformer
The Reform RX Pilates Reformer should be your go-to option if you're looking for heavy-duty equipment. It’s a commercial-grade reformer that offers some smart features. You can digitally connect to it, and it’s Bluetooth-enabled. It also has built-in sensors that give real-time feedback as you work out.
This reformer is packed with adjustable features. Its foot bar has 28 adjustable positions, and the straps are retractable. Some built-in pieces of other Pilates equipment are included, like a chair at the back of the machine. As a heavy-duty reformer, it can accommodate 4’10” to 6’7” users and weigh up to 375 lbs.
Specifications:
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 127 x 27.5 x 15.5 inches
- Weight: 244 lbs
- Springs: 4
Pros:
- Durable metal construction
- It comes with a clear digital screen
- It can be used by users of different heights and weights
- Resistance can be adjusted with a button
Cons:
- Very expensive
- Requires a monthly fee to access Pilates content
Best Smart: Frame Fitness Pilates Reformer
Although the previous reformer model offers some smart features, it’s not as good as the Frame Fitness Smart Reformer. It’s also more affordable than the Reform RX unit. The Frame Fitness reformer is a digitally connected machine with a 24-inch swivel touchscreen.
Instead of using coils, this smart reformer uses a push-button system to adjust the weight of your resistance easily. This means that you can easily attach the springs to it. It even comes with wheels and is foldable, making it easy to transport and store when needed. Although its class content costs an extra membership fee, you can access a massive library of reformer content and mat Pilates classes.
Specifications:
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 94 x 25.5 x 36 inches (monitor displayed)
- Weight: 137 lbs (with tablet and foot bar)
- Springs: 6
Pros:
- Available in peach and black colors
- Different levels of workouts from the additional library
- Created and designed by a Pilates instructor
- Clear and display monitor
Cons:
- On the expensive side
Best Reformer Combo: BASI Systems Reformer Combo
With full reformer and reformer with tower and Cadillac functionality, the BASI Reformer Combo is one of the market's most cost-effective and space-saving options. BASI’s signature enhanced pulley system (EPS) and an expanded gear system for better control and precision in pulley and spring resistance settings.
Because of its versatility, you can enjoy a wide range of workouts using this machine. It also has prepared ports where you can add an F4 system if you ever want to upgrade. Of course, like most BASI equipment, this comes with a padded cushion and adjustable shoulder rests, footbar, and headrest.
Specifications:
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 100 x 28.4 x 71.7 inches
- Weight: 317.4 lbs
- Springs: 5 (reformer only)
Pros:
- The leg can be extended
- It comes with a wide range of accessories
- It has silicon wheels for easy and quick mobility
- Durable materials and build
Cons:
- Very expensive
Best White Reformer: Elina Pilates Nubium Reformer
The Elina Pilates Nubium Reformer is a white reformer that is ideal for both home and professional use. It has a white aluminum structure that adds aesthetic value and ensures the machine's quality and sturdiness. It also comes with polyurethane wheels and precision bearings for quiet sessions.
This reformer boasts high-quality upholstery that can resist wear even after continuous use. It also has a lot of adjustable features, like its quick-release foot bar that you can use in seven different positions. It even comes with automatic, retractable systems for string adjustments and rope collection to easily store them.
Specifications:
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 98 x 30.7 x 33.8 inches
- Weight: 139 lbs
- Springs: 5
Pros:
- The headrest is adjustable into three positions
- Shoulder pads are adjustable as well
- It comes with a jump board
- Silent gliding carriage
Cons:
- The color white can easily get dirty
Best for Small Spaces: Lagree Micro Reformer
You can go for the Lagree Micro Reformer if space is an issue. This is an extremely compact and slim reformer that can surely fit into any tight space. It’s the lighter and smaller alternative to Lagree’s Megaformer. It’s also easier to use, transport, and store than most reformers.
It uses spring resistance for more challenging workouts. Also, because of its small design, you can integrate and perform many floor exercises using this reformer. You can use it for both low-impact and high-intensity full-body workouts. For workout content, you can subscribe to Lagree to gain access to a wide range of exercises you can follow.
Specifications:
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 71.1 x 18.5 x 5.5 inches
- Weight: 60 lbs
- Springs: 4
Pros:
- It can be stored under the bed, against the wall or racked up like a bike
- It’s upgradable to have more accessories like platforms and handles
- It offers enough room for people up to 6’8’’
Cons:
- It doesn’t initially come with accessories
- It can be pretty expensive for a base unit
Conclusion
There are a lot of Pilates reformers for sale online. Make sure to consider what you want, your fitness goals, and your budget when choosing the perfect unit to use. For the best reformers, you can refer to our list above. But if you want more options, you can visit our reformer collection.
