Best Pilates Home Reformer
There is a growing trend for people to have a home Pilates reformer and why not? You’ve dipped your toe into the world of Pilates by doing studio classes. You are now seeing the benefits of this amazing exercise and want to have the option of doing reformer at home or maybe it’s about the added cost of doing studio classes that is unattractive or finally just the convenience of choosing when and where you do a reformer session. Whatever the reason, it’s here we dive into looking at reformer brands and options for you, to get equipped at home!
Pilates Reformer Equipment & Props
We really do like Pilates props, they are fun coupled with a variety of exercises.
Reformer Machine Settings
To get the best out of your reformer you should have it set up correctly.
What Is Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates is Pilates done on the reformer machine.
Change happens through movement and movement heals.
Joseph Pilates
The Brands We Cover
Quick Summary Of Our Picks For The Best Home Reformer
Low Lying Reformer | $$$ |
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Extra Length Reformer | $$$ |
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Professional Reformer but well priced | $$ | |
Foldable Reformer | $ |
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Wood Frame Reformer | $$$ |
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Two very well known, highly respected brands and quality brands are Balanced Body and Stott Pilates Merrithew, which make top of the range reformers. You will not be disappointed with these reformers, they show quality workmanship, smooth and silent carriage glide, quality upholstery, straps, ropes. They deliver and don’t disappoint.
1) Balanced Body
A US brand and one of their latest releases is the Allegro 2, which has been a sure winner for use both in the studio and at home. If you are wanting a sleek looking machine, which has 8 wheel system, smooth and silent carriage, it’s hard to look past the Allegro 2.
Are you tall and need the extra space? Look at the Allegro Standard or the Allegro Stretch version, which accommodates larger and longer bodies. You’ll also want to get the 14” legs to get the reformer off the floor a bit. The Allegro Standard comes with a very wide foot bar. If you are looking for a bit more height to the reformer consider the Studio Reformer, which has height options of 14”, 18” up to 24”. Also, the wooden frame of the Studio Reformer comes in rock maple, artisan maple, strata woods, so lots of options for it for fit with your lounge or bedroom furnishings. Are you looking for an extremely low lying to ground reformer that is easy to store under the bed or in the closet? We recommend the IQ Reformer. The Balanced Body Reformer is hard to fault, yes it’s more on the pricey side but it’s a superbly finished and a very high-quality machine.
We further review the Allegro II in our Blog section.
Balanced Body Reformer Table – Reformer Specs
| Frame | Springs | Spring Rack (Bar)(Gearbox) | Dimension | Portability Transport Wheels | Foot Plate- Jumpboard | Warranty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Allegro 2 | Anodized aluminum + maple footrest METAL | 5 = 1 yellow(very light) 1 blue (light) 3 red (medium) | No - fixed position - footbar on outside | 94" x 25.5" x 15" (lxwxh) with legs | Wheel kit + can store on end - YES | Yes, padded | 10yr on frame & footbar |
| Studio with Classic Footbar | Choose height= 14 " or 18" or 24" Wood: Rock Maple/Artisan Mapel/Strata Woods | 5 = 1 blue (light) 3 red (medium) 1 green (heavy) | Yes - 2 positions - footbar on inside | Length 93" or Stretch Sudio 99" + Width 26.5" | No | Yes, padded | Lifetime on standard wood frame. |
| IQ Reformer, with wheelbarrow wheels | Aluminum frame METAL | 5 = 1 yellow(very light) 1 blue (light) 3 red (medium) | No - fixed position - fixed into plaform | Length = 98" + width 24" | Yes,wheelbarrow wheels | Yes | |
| Allegro Reformer, standard (with 14" leg kit) | 14" legs Anodized aluminum METAL | 5 = 1 yellow (very light), 1 blue (light) 3 red (medium) | No -fixed position - footbar on outside | Length = 93"+ width 22.5" | Yes, can store on end | Yes | 10yr on frame & footbar |
| Allegro 2 | ||
| Frame | Anodized aluminum + maple footrest METAL | |
| Springs | 5 = 1 yellow(very light) 1 blue (light) 3 red (medium) | |
| Spring Rack (Bar)(Gearbox) | No - fixed position - footbar on outside | |
| Dimension | 94" x 25.5" x 15" (lxwxh) with legs | |
| Portability Transport Wheels | Wheel kit + can store on end - YES | |
| Foot Plate- Jumpboard | Yes, padded | |
| Warranty | 10yr on frame & footbar | |
| Studio with Classic Footbar | ||
| Frame | Choose height= 14 " or 18" or 24" Wood: Rock Maple/Artisan Mapel/Strata Woods | |
| Springs | 5 = 1 blue (light) 3 red (medium) 1 green (heavy) | |
| Spring Rack (Bar)(Gearbox) | Yes - 2 positions - footbar on inside | |
| Dimension | Length 93" or Stretch Sudio 99" + Width 26.5" | |
| Portability Transport Wheels | No | |
| Foot Plate- Jumpboard | Yes, padded | |
| Warranty | Lifetime on standard wood frame. | |
| IQ Reformer, with wheelbarrow wheels | ||
| Frame | Aluminum frame METAL | |
| Springs | 5 = 1 yellow(very light) 1 blue (light) 3 red (medium) | |
| Spring Rack (Bar)(Gearbox) | No - fixed position - fixed into plaform | |
| Dimension | Length = 98" + width 24" | |
| Portability Transport Wheels | Yes,wheelbarrow wheels | |
| Foot Plate- Jumpboard | Yes, padded | |
| Warranty | ||
| Allegro Reformer, standard (with 14" leg kit) | ||
| Frame | 14" legs Anodized aluminum METAL | |
| Springs | 5 = 1 yellow (very light), 1 blue (light) 3 red (medium) | |
| Spring Rack (Bar)(Gearbox) | No -fixed position - footbar on outside | |
| Dimension | Length = 93"+ width 22.5" | |
| Portability Transport Wheels | Yes, can store on end | |
| Foot Plate- Jumpboard | Yes | |
| Warranty | 10yr on frame & footbar | |
2) Stott Pilates Merrithew
Manufactured in Canada and founded in 1988, Stott Merrithew machines are considered the best ‘mid-grade’ option. Stott Merrithew use C channel aluminum rails with a patented rolling mechanism for smooth, friction-free ride up the carriage. You’ll also find that when it arrives, it comes already 80% assembled and the actual ‘putting together’ isn’t hard. However, reformers are big, so still expect a big shipping box and two strong people to assist you with handling it!
Just a word on the name, Stott Merrithew
Moria Merrithew (nee Stott) and husband Lindsay Merrithew established the company in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. This gives rise to the two names on the brand. Stott Pilates is a branded version of the Pilates method and there is particular training to teach this method, including instructor training, to become a Stott Pilates instructor.
Two common machines are the Stott Pilates Merrithew at Home SPX and Merrithew V2 Max Reformer Bundle. The V2 Max is a bigger machine, height, length, width, and heavier. There is a pulley post difference with the SPX having standard pulley posts with flexible adjustments and the V2 Max with quick set pulley posts with six pre-set settings (to lower or rise). If you potentially want the vertical frame then go for the V2 Max.
See our review of the Stott Pilates Merrithew bundle, the ins & outs of the machine and what we like and what could be improved.
Stott Pilates Merrithew Reformer Table – Reformer specs
Frame | Springs | Spring Rack (Bar)(Gearbox) | Dimensions | Portability Transport Wheels | Foot Plate- Jumpboard | Warranty | |
10" height Aluminum METAL | 5 = 4 full (100%), 1 Half (50%) | 3 position gearbar- allows for 3 levels of spring resistance | Length 96.5" + Wide 26" | With wheels. Not stackable | Yes | Lifetime on frame | |
16" height Aluminum METAL | 5 =3 full (100%), 1 half (50%), 1 quarter (25%) | 3 position gearbar- allows for 3 levels of spring resistance | Length 97" + Wide 30" (can add 6" to length) for tall or long torso people | With wheels. Not stackable | Yes | Lifetime on frame |
3. Align
Align is a UK branded Reformer and is considered a quality Reformer with an affordable price tag for its specs. There are both options of home, studio and foldable Reformers. The Align Pro series (includes their C2 Pro, C8 Pro and A8 Pro) is their leading Reformer with a full set of 5 springs, precision aluminum wheels and with larger carriage size, and changeable spring bar.
Blog Review of Align Pro series – the ins & outs of the Align Pro series, what we like and what could be improved.
Their Home series includes the 4 position foot bar but reduced 4 springs and fixed spring bar. The Reformer runners are stainless steel rather than the precision aluminum that you’ll find on the Pro series. This carriage travel length is reduced by 4.5” (11.5cm) compared to the Align Pro series and the maximum user weight is 265 lbs (120kg).
If you are looking at their Foldable Reformers then look at the F3 Folding Pilates Reformer. The carriage size is the same as the Home series along with the 4 spring option and fixed spring bar, but the F3 shares the same precision aluminum runners as the Pro series and has a longer travel length of 0.8” (2cm) compared to their Home Reformer. One thing to note is that there’s no leg or height option to raise the F3 further off the ground on the foldable version. So if you don’t like a low lying Reformer, then take a look at the Pro or Home series, as these do have the 2 leg options.
Overall we like that Align has given a good range of Reformer options to meet your budget and your intended use and workout level on the Reformer. We are glad to see that all Reformer options have the external foot bar outside the Reformer chaise, so it folds right down. However, we would’ve liked to have seen a wider standing foot platform on all the machines. If you are try to do a standing lunge on the Reformer, with one foot on the standing platform and the other back on the Reformer, you are going to have problems. The standing platform is simply not wide enough to put your entire foot on comfortably.
Align also offers the tower, which connects to their Pro Reformer series, Cadillac, Ladder Barrel, Combo Chair along with Step Barrel and Arc Barrel. Overall, a good range of Pilates equipment and accessories.
Align Pilates – Reformer Specs
Frame | Springs | Spring Rack (Bar)(Gearbox) | Dimensions | Portability Transport Wheels | Foot Plate- Jumpboard | Warranty | |
Aluminium | 5 springs - 1x Strong (Green color), 2x Medium (Red color), 2x Light (Blue color) | Yes, spring bar set changeable position. Foot bar on ouside of chaise | 94" x 26" (239.5cm x66cm) | Yes, standing & stacking | Yes | Studio | |
Aluminium | 5 springs - 1x Strong (Green color), 2x Medium (Red color), 2x Light (Blue color) | Yes, spring bar set changeable position. Foot bar on ouside of chaise | 94" x 26" (239.5cm x66cm) | Yes, standing & stacking | Yes | Studio | |
Aluminium | 4 springs - 1x Strong (Green color), 2x Medium (Red color), 1x Light (blue color) | Fixed, can't move the spring bar back or forward. Foot bar on outside of chaise | 97" x 27.5" (247cm x 70cm) | No, standing yes, stacking no | Yes | Home - 2yr frame warranty | |
Aluminium | 4 springs - x2 Strong (Green color), x1 Medium (Red color), x1 Light (Blue color) | Fixed, can't move the spring bar back or forward. Foot bar on outside of chaise | 95" x 27.5" (242cm x 70cm) | YES -Folding yes, standing yes, stacking no | Yes | Home -2yr frame warranty |
4. Aero Pilates
Aero Pilates is a cheaper entrance way brand. However, you can still get a good experience and workout on the machines and the machines really have been thought with home usage in mind when it comes to storage, being transportable, stackable and foldable. The machines use cords or bungee cords in place of metal springs. Aero Plus 370 and Aero 700 Pilates both come with 4 cords and the Stamina Aero comes with 3 resistance cords. If you are looking for an increased cardio workout then you will want to get the rebounder to jump off, so look at the Aero Plus 379 or Aero 700 premier.
These are starter machines, they are smaller and narrower. They may not be suitable if you are tall or larger, you’ll probably then want to invest in a bigger machine. If you have been taking Pilates studio classes then expect that these machines will be a step down from what you are used to, with the carriage not being as smooth, some will use Velcro for the hand and foot straps, with strap adjustment being more difficult.
However, if you are budget conscious and want the Pilates reformer home experience, they are a great option!
Aero Pilates Reformer Table – Reformer Specs
| Frame | Springs | Spring Rack (Bar)(Gearbox) | Dimension | Portability Transport Wheels | Foot Plate- Jumpboard | Warranty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aero Pilates Plus 379 | 20" (arm bar that takes up vertical space) | Cords 4 = 1 Red (heavy), 1 Yellow (light), 2 Black | Fixed | Length 84" Wide 20" | Yes, foldable frame with wheels for storage | Yes - rebounder | 3yrs frame, 90 days parts |
| Aero Pilates 700 | 14" high | Bungee cords = 4 heavy duty black | Fixed | Length 86.25" Wide 20" | No | Yes - rebounder | 3yrs frame, 90 days parts |
| Stamina AeroPilates Reformer 287 | Black steel frame 17.5 " wide | Cords = 3 bungee cords | Fixed | Length 85.25" Wide 17.5" Height 9" | Yes, foldable frame with wheels for storage. 9.5" when folded. | No - rebounder | 3yrs frame, 90 days parts |
| Aero Pilates Plus 379 | ||
| Frame | 20" (arm bar that takes up vertical space) | |
| Springs | Cords 4 = 1 Red (heavy), 1 Yellow (light), 2 Black | |
| Spring Rack (Bar)(Gearbox) | Fixed | |
| Dimension | Length 84" Wide 20" | |
| Portability Transport Wheels | Yes, foldable frame with wheels for storage | |
| Foot Plate- Jumpboard | Yes - rebounder | |
| Warranty | 3yrs frame, 90 days parts | |
| Aero Pilates 701 Premier | ||
| Frame | 14" high | |
| Springs | Bungee cords = 4 heavy duty black | |
| Spring Rack (Bar)(Gearbox) | Fixed | |
| Dimension | Length 86.25" Wide 20" | |
| Portability Transport Wheels | No | |
| Foot Plate- Jumpboard | Yes - rebounder | |
| Warranty | 3yrs frame, 90 days parts | |
| Stamina AeroPilates Reformer 287 | ||
| Frame | Black steel frame 17.5 " wide | |
| Springs | Cords = 3 bungee cords | |
| Spring Rack (Bar)(Gearbox) | Fixed | |
| Dimension | Length 85.25" Wide 17.5" Height 9" | |
| Portability Transport Wheels | Yes, foldable frame with wheels for storage. 9.5" when folded. | |
| Foot Plate- Jumpboard | No - rebounder | |
| Warranty | 3yrs frame, 90 days parts | |
Concentrate on the correct movement each time you exercise, lest you do them improperly and thus lose all vital benefits
Joseph Pilates
5) Peak Pilates
Is a US wooden frame brand that takes its inspiration from the Colorado Rockies. The frames are handcrafted from natural and sustainable woods to advanced metal designs. These are stylish looking wooden reformers.
The Artistry reformer you have the choice between vegan synthetic leather straps and wood handles or black rope with neoprene handles. The spring bar support is rubber dipped and contoured for smooth spring changes and reduced noise. The wooden frames are sleek with fewer exposed screws. On some of the machines though, the foot platform does not extend all the way across the width of the reformer, which is more limiting on foot space and positions.
Peak Pilates Reformer Table – Reformer Specs
Frame | Springs | Spring Rack (Bar)(Gearbox) | Dimensions | Portability Transport Wheels | Foot Plate- Jumpboard | Warranty | |
Peak Pilates Mve Reformer | Powder coated Aluminum frame height 15.5" | 5 = 1 red (heavy) 2 yellow (medium) 2 blue (light) | 4 position gear system | Length 103" , Width 29" | Can stand vertically on 1 end. Not portable | Lifetime on frame + 90 days on Upholstered parts, ropes, straps | |
Powder coated Aluminum frame height 16" | 5 = 1 red (heavy) 2 yellow (medium) 2 blue (light) | 4 position gear system | Length 97", Width 25" | Can stand vertically on 1 end. Not portable | Can add Jump board | Lifetime on frame + 90 days on Upholstered parts, ropes, straps | |
Wooden Premium Solid Oak height 16" | 5 = 1 red (heavy) 2 yellow (medium) 2 blue (light) | 4 position gear system | Length 90" , Width 26" | Lifetime on frame + 90 days on Upholstered parts, ropes, straps |
6) Elina Pilates
Another good brand that puts out high-quality reformers, where you can choose from a wooden frame version or metal version. Do you need an additional range of foot bar positions? The Elina Pilates Aluminum reformer has 5, using an external foot bar. If you are looking for a reformer that has height off the ground, then the Elina Pilates Aluminum Reformer HL4 is a good option, which is 24.4” off the ground.
If you prefer the wood style look then the Elite Wood Reformer with external foot bar is worth a look.
A few well designed movements, properly performed in a balanced sequence, are worth hours of sloppy calisthenics or forced contortion.
Joseph Pilates
Final Word
You want to do your research before purchasing a home reformer, however, we believe that if you get the right fit then it will be a wonderful investment in your body, mind, and general well being. Good luck with your practice and see you on the reformer!