A Pilates Reformer Machine Is a Great Way to Stay Consistent at Home

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FOR THOSE who are just starting out with Pilates, hold off on the impulse to invest in a Pilates reformer machine to use at home. They're not exactly beginner-friendly and can be a tad tricky to get the hang of while keeping your form in check. Plus, they're pretty darn massive and the best Pilates reformers can put a serious dent in your wallet.

But, here's the deal, if you're a regular at in-person Pilates classes and you're looking to level up your game, having a Pilates reformer machine at home is seriously cool. You can work out on your own schedule, follow online instructors for free on YouTube or membership-based platforms like SPEIR Pilates, and even have virtual 1:1 sessions with a private instructor. I've been practicing Pilates and testing the best reformer machines extensively in my own home and in studios for more than six years now. It's a setup that has worked incredibly well for me for low-impact strength work on days I don't feel like touching a weight.

The potential benefits of incorporating Pilates into your typical training routine shouldn’t be underestimated. "Reformer Pilates workouts involve a component of training muscular endurance that we may not necessarily focus on in our gym workouts," explains physical therapist Winnie Yu, PT, DPT, C.S.C.S., of Bespoke Treatments, New York. "With proper guidance, consistent Pilates training can also help you develop the neuromuscular control of your trunk and limbs in less traditional planes of motion."

As Sarah Brooks, the founder of Brooks Pilates in New York City, and a Certified Pilates Instructor explains, Pilates is all about strengthening your core, which includes your back, glutes, and abs, with the pelvis as your foundation. “It's all about connecting with your body and doing things right to engage those muscles as deeply as possible,” she explains.

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For those of you who are comfortable using a reformer solo, having one at your fingertips whenever you want is a total luxury. But owning your own Pilates Reformer machine for home use doesn't mean you should give up in-person classes entirely. Working with experienced instructors in real life allows for those crucial adjustments and corrections that make your Pilates workouts safer and more effective over time.

So, if you're itching to get your own personal Pilates Reformer Machine, you're in luck. We've been putting reformers through their paces in studios and at home for more than six years. Check out our top five picks for the best Pilates reformer machines for home use below.

Allegro 2

If you've attended your fair share of in-person Pilates classes, you've likely worked out on the Allegro 2. This reformer is the one I see most frequently in Pilates studios, and according to Brooks, it stands as the best in the business.

The Allegro 2 is known for its durability and sturdiness within a modern silhouette, setting itself apart from the bulkier, wooden iterations of past generations. Its sleek appearance adds a contemporary touch to the traditional Pilates reformer without compromising on stability or function.

The carriage of the Allegro 2 is not only spacious but also remarkably comfortable, making it particularly suitable for individuals of larger stature. The headrest can be adjusted to cater to three different sizes, facilitating a more comfortable, secure feel while performing exercises on your back.

While the standard low frame offers a comfortable nine-inch height, an optional leg kit, available for $350, raises the carriage to 15 inches above the floor. We found the leg kit makes the machine overall more comfortable to use, and is especially great for individuals with limited mobility who may struggle getting down to or up from the machine at its lower height.

The machine weighs 139-pounds, so the addition of a wheel kit ($80) is also a good idea, but not necessary if your machine will stay in one place.

In my experience testing this machine, the main feature that distinguishes it from other premium reformers is its easy-glide footbar design, which is a significant upgrade in terms of exercise versatility and user experience. Unlike conventional reformers with four to six vertical footbar adjustments, the Allegro 2 offers a footbar that not only adjusts vertically in four positions, including a fully flat setting, but also glides horizontally along the entire frame into nine additional positions. This range of adjustability opens up a ton of possibilities for contemporary Pilates workouts and modifications to fit each users' preferences. It's worth noting that two footbar options are available: steel or carbon fiber. In our firsthand experience, the steel footbar is more conducive to stability and long-term durability than the carbon fiber option, which is less firm and slightly more flexible.

My primary issue with this machine arose when I attempted to set it up at home. The Allegro 2 is undeniably hefty, and the setup process is quite involved. Initially, I attempted it solo, only to realize that it's a task best tackled with at least two people. The machine arrives in multiple boxes, and from unboxing to complete assembly, the process consumed at least two hours with two individuals. The most time-consuming and challenging aspect of setup revolved around attaching the footbar (which must be done with at least two people), but given the value it adds to the machine, the effort was unquestionably worthwhile.

Considering the premium price tag, including setup assistance with the purchase of this machine when buying directly from the retailer would be ideal. Nevertheless, the Allegro 2 remains the crème de la crème in terms of construction, functionality, and overall value.

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Frame Pilates Reformer

The Frame Fitness Pilates reformer boasts a distinctive dual spring system, with two light, two medium, and two heavy springs positioned both at the front and back of the carriage. This design deviates from the standard reformer machines, which typically feature springs only at the front. This setup adds an additional layer of resistance and emulates the experience of a megaformer, due to the addition of heavier springs at the rear.

I found the reformer's distinct spring system simplifies resistance adjustment by utilizing a button-activated mechanism, offering a modern, user-friendly alternative to the conventional hook and loop system. It's important to note that when changing springs, the carriage must be is positioned at either the front or back of the machine, depending on your attachment point.

The straps occasionally posed a minor hindrance when adjusting the rear springs on the platform by getting in the way. However, they're easily repositioned or docked in their designated holders when needed. What sets these straps apart is their remarkably soft fabric handles, which offer a comfortable grip without any discomfort or irritation (which leather handles sometimes result in). The ability to detach and machine-wash the straps would be ideal, but a simple wipe-down suffices for maintenance.

Setting the Frame Fitness apart from traditional Pilates reformers, it omits shoulder rests and introduces a pair of outer bars on the carriage's sides. These lateral bars provide a broader hand placement for plank positions. Personally, as someone with tight wrists that tend to ache during traditional planks with a 90-degree wrist angle, holding onto these lateral bars proved to be more comfortable.

Another feature that stood out to me in my testing of this machine is the footbar. The padding feels nice under the palms for elevated planks with some level of cushioning, but is not so cushioned that you lose necessary pressure and stability when doing footwork on the footbar.

This reformer looks really good, too. It boasts a sleek, slim profile, that blends with various home aesthetics, almost resembling a piece of furniture. The foldable screen facilitates convenient storage when not in use and provides access to the Frame platform when in use. This platform hosts a diverse range of classes, encompassing power Pilates, recovery sessions, yoga, mat exercises, and hybrid classes that combine both on-machine and off-machine workouts. Users can easily filter classes based on four difficulty levels and preferred durations. Additionally, there's the option to filter by add-on frame accessories, such as a Pilates box, ball, or the Hypervolt Go 2, ideal for recovery sessions.

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At Home SPX Reformer Bundle

Merrithew is a prominent name in the world of Pilates and has a reputation for making long-lasting reformers. Their At-Home SPX Reformer Bundle stands as their premier home offering, with a delivery that's 90% assembled. In our firsthand experience, the setup was a piece of cake, taking less than half the time it took to assemble the Allegro 2. Priced at $3200, this bundle includes a reformer box, footstrap, metal roll-up pole, and a padded platform extender, catering to the needs of larger individuals.

It's essential to recognize that, unlike the Allegro 2, the Merrithew model is tailored specifically for home use, not for high-volume commercial settings. When using this machine, it doesn't exude the same sense of solidity and premium quality as the Allegro 2. However, it excels in terms of ease and comfort in a home environment and is rated to support users up to 250-pounds, all while coming in at over $1000 less in price.

One aspect I appreciate about this machine is the quiet rolling carriage and inclusion of neoprene spring covers, both thoughtfully designed to minimize the noise generated as the carriage smoothly slides from back to front. The carriage's rolling mechanism is patented, gliding over rigid C-channel aluminum rails to reduce friction and noise. Moving the carriage back to front feels noticeably smoother than similarly priced reformers I've tried. The upholstery of the carriage mirrors that of Balanced Body's, featuring durable vinyl and dense cushioning that strikes a balance between comfort and support.

The Merrithew SPX Reformer Bundle offers four footbar positions and three headrest positions, accommodating a wide range of body sizes and exercise preferences. The new footbar has added cushioning, and proves gentler on sensitive feet and hands, though it doesn't offer the same level of firm pressure as a steel footbar.

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Metro IQ

I used the Balanced Body Metro IQ Pilates Reformer in my 650-square-foot apartment for almost two years before relocating and finding it a new home. Throughout this time, I stored it under my couch, ensuring that it remained completely out of sight when not in use. My routine involved using it 3-4 times a week, either by following along with YouTube classes or performing sequences I had learned during in-person studio sessions. My decision to part with it came down to two main reasons: my need for in-person instruction to maximize Pilates foundational movements, and the fact that, even in a small one-bedroom apartment, it still required a considerable amount of space for comfortable use. Each time I used it, I had to roll up one edge of my living room rug and rearrange some small living room furniture to create enough room around the reformer. While this aspect was somewhat bothersome, it remains the top choice for those in need of a space-saving reformer.

The Metro IQ offers the same heavy-duty upholstered vinyl carriage found in premium models from the brand, ensuring both a sleek appearance and long-term durability. However, the true highlight of this machine is its patented telescoping frame, which extends up to 98 inches, providing enhanced exercise versatility and catering to taller individuals.

After several months of experience with this reformer, I can confidently affirm that it delivers an outstanding Pilates workout. The machine exudes remarkable sturdiness, and its slim design reflects thoughtful craftsmanship. The only minor drawback I encountered pertains to the footbar, which requires a few additional seconds for adjustment compared to the seamlessly adjustable footbar on the Allegro 2. While it may be slightly inconvenient during video-guided workouts, it doesn't significantly impede the effectiveness of my sessions.

The reformer sits remarkably close to the ground, which may pose challenges for individuals who struggle with ground-level movements. It's worth noting that I haven't found it necessary to use risers, as the reformer's placement on the floor suits most exercises perfectly. Additionally, any deviations in the range of motion, compared to studio reformers, can be viewed as valuable modifications rather than limitations. This configuration also enhances safety during workouts.

Setting up the reformer is a breeze, as it arrives almost ready to use right out of the box. A quick assembly process involves attaching the shoulder rests, risers, straps, and footbar, which takes just a few minutes once you're familiar with the equipment.

I highly recommend getting the lite box, a foot strap (if not included in your purchase), and the jumpboard, which made valuable additions to my workouts on this machine. These accessories complement the reformer beautifully and add variety to your exercise routine.

As for portability, the reformer is quite heavy, weighing in at 94 pounds, which makes it challenging to transport for some. The telescoping feature helps with storage, but for travel, you'd need a relatively large vehicle or a pickup truck.

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Pilates Reformer Pro

The Pilates Reformer Pro provides both durability and a classic aesthetic at a reasonable price. Through our hands-on experience, we discovered that this reformer feels stable and offers a similar user experience as Balanced Body's Studio Reformer, at nearly half the cost. Crafted from wood and coated with a protective flat varnish, it has a solid build that can withstand rigorous use.

The upholstery on the carriage is synthetic leather, which delivers a slightly firmer and less cushioned feel compared to the Balanced Body and Merrithew reformers we evaluated in this list. For those who prefer a stable and firm base, this may be the preferred choice, though some may find it less comfortable.

The carriage on this machine glides smoothly and maintains its sturdiness. The stainless steel footbar feels solid and is adjustable into four positions, ensuring a reliable and adaptable exercise experience. The padded shoulder pads can be completely removed, but it's important to note that they offer only one position when in use on the carriage

It offers a classic selection of five springs, each with varying resistance levels that can be combined to customize the difficulty according to individual fitness levels and preferences.

We observed that the wooden frame is more susceptible to dings, scratches, and scuffs when compared to metal frames. Signs of wear become visible more quickly, however, these surface imperfections, don't necessarily diminish the overall appeal (or function) of the reformer.

Every reformer comes with the main accessories, including a jump board and sitting box, which adds versatility for home Pilates workouts at no extra cost.

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What is the Best Pilates Reformer Machine for Home Use?

Space constraints and budget are two major constraints when it comes to shopping for the best Pilates reformer machine. The underlying principles and movements across different reformer machines remains the same, but some provide an overall better long-term investment than others. Aesthetics matter too, though they shouldn't drive your decision.

"I favor the Allegro 2 for its combination of chic design and excellent functionality," says Brooks. "It offers a pleasant exercise experience and can seamlessly blend with most home decor styles."

Who is a Pilates Reformer Machine Good For?

Originally developed by Joseph Pilates, the reformer machine was designed to assist in the rehabilitation of individuals, but a reformer Pilates offers a range of fitness benefits.

"For anyone looking to develop their core, and frankly whole body strength, integrating Pilates into your training regimen is a great means to get in some low impact work that emphasizes development of stability," explains Yu.

"Its primary purpose is to facilitate precise movement execution while providing support," explains Brooks. It focuses on core strength and stability starting from the pelvis (the foundation of the core), which can benefit everything from athletic performance to posture. Some in the Pilates camp say, "you're only as old as your spine," and a strong core is a road that leads toward a strong, resilient spine.

Reformer Pilates can enhance mobility and flexibility, with a strong emphasis on stretching and muscle lengthening, making it a valuable addition for those whose fitness routines may overlook this aspect.

It also promotes balanced muscle development, addressing imbalances often seen in traditional fitness routines and working on accessory muscles that might be neglected in weightlifting. It also promotes body awareness and proper alignment, which can benefit everything from weightlifting to running in the long-term.

Are Pilates Reformer Machines Worth It?

"Pilates reformer machines are absolutely worth the investment, provided you have the necessary space," Brooks states.

Pilates Reformer machines can be a significant investment, both in terms of size and cost. However, their worth ultimately depends on your fitness goals and personal circumstances.

Reformer machines offer a low-impact strengthening workout that can benefit a wide range of fitness levels. Whether you're a beginner looking to build core strength or a Pilates veteran aiming to take your practice to the next level, the reformer can be adapted to meet your needs. Its versatility in accommodating various resistance levels and exercise variations make it a fun, dynamic home workout option.

However, since Reformer Pilates is a low-impact exercise that doesn't break down muscle fibers like more strenuous strength workouts, it's not as conducive to hypertrophy as lifting weights. "A reformer is kind of like a TRX in that it’s terrifically useful, but not the entree from a longevity standpoint," explains Ebenezer Samuel, C.S.C.S., MH Fitness Director.

The controlled, precise movements of Pilates on the Reformer can also aid in rehabilitation, helping to regain strength, flexibility, and mobility. Many physical therapists and healthcare professionals recommend Reformer-based Pilates to assist with injury recovery.

Why is Reformer Pilates So Hard?

Reformer Pilates can be challenging. Like your whole body shaking before you're even done with the warm-up type of hard. This difficulty arises from several factors, but the primary reason boils down to the use of resistance throughout slow, controlled movements.

By incorporating spring tension and bodyweight resistance, reformer Pilates demands a high level of muscular engagement and control. This controlled resistance challenges your muscles, leading to increased fatigue for some.

But the difficulty varies depending on the exercises you're performing. Some movements on the reformer may feel more accessible, while others, especially as you progress to more advanced exercises, can be more demanding.

What to Wear on a Pilates Reformer Machine

For a Pilates reformer machine session, opt for well-fitting athletic attire. Breathable performance t-shirts, compression shorts, compression pants, or joggers are all great choices. You can also go for athletic shorts with liners or layer them over compression shorts, but steer clear of baggy clothing that might hinder your movements. Essentially, the clothing you'd wear to a yoga class also works well for a workout on a reformer.

However, when it comes to footwear, you'll need to get yourself a pair (or a few) of Pilates socks. These socks feature rubber grips on the soles, minimizing slippage and helping you maintain stable footing on the carriage and the platform.

Why You Can Trust Us

At Men's Health, we take great pride in providing our readers with reliable and trustworthy product recommendations. We believe that our readers deserve the best, which is why we always make sure to conduct thorough research and testing before making any recommendations.

Our fitness writers and editors are also experts in their own right, using their informed opinions to select products and ensuring that our content is of the highest quality. Our product recommendations are purely editorial, and while we may receive free products to test and review, we only recommend the products we are most impressed by. We never let retailers or public relations contacts dictate our content or product coverage, which is why you can trust us to provide you with reliable and unbiased product recommendations.

How We Selected the Best Pilates Reformer Machines

For the past six years, Men's Health's Fitness and Commerce Editor Talene Appleton, NASM, has been testing the best Pilates reformer machines from top-rated brands. We've spent more than 100 hours testing the best Pilates reformer machines at home and in studios across New York City through a mixture of self-guided and instructor-led sessions ranging in duration from 20-60 minutes. We also interviewed experts including Sarah Brooks, the founder of Brooks Pilates in New York City, and a Certified Pilates Instructor, for additional insights on features and functions of the best Pilates reformers.

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