We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. Learn more. Pilates The Best Pilates Reformers for Studio-Quality Workouts at Home We researched reformers for all budgets and spaces, with help from experts By Lindsey Lanquist Lindsey Lanquist Lindsey Lanquist is a writer and editor specializing in fashion, lifestyle, and health content. Her work has appeared in SELF, StyleCaster, SheKnows, MyDomaine, and more. Learn about our editorial process and Michelle Parente, CYT Michelle Parente, CYT Michelle Parente, CYT, is a New York City-based yoga sculpt instructor and lifestyle journalist specializing in health, wellness, and fitness content. As a commerce writer, it's Michelle's mission to provide researched and reliable product recommendations. Learn about our editorial process Updated on April 18, 2024 Reviewed Verywell Fit articles are reviewed by nutrition and exercise professionals. Reviewers confirm the content is thorough and accurate, reflecting the latest evidence-based research. Content is reviewed before publication and upon substantial updates. Learn more. by Kristin McGee, CPT Reviewed by Kristin McGee, CPT Kristin McGee is a certified personal trainer and currently teaches yoga and meditation for Peloton. She is also certified in Pilates by the National Association of Sports Medicine. Learn about our Review Board Fact checked Verywell Fit content is rigorously reviewed by a team of qualified and experienced fact checkers. Fact checkers review articles for factual accuracy, relevance, and timeliness. We rely on the most current and reputable sources, which are cited in the text and listed at the bottom of each article. Content is fact checked after it has been edited and before publication. Learn more. by Marley Hall Fact checked by Marley Hall Marley Hall is a writer and fact checker who is certified in clinical and translational research. Her work has been published in medical journals in the field of surgery, and she has received numerous awards for publication in education. Learn about our editorial process Print Verywell Fit / Sabrina Jiang A Pilates reformer is a piece of equipment designed to provide an intense full-body workout through small, slow movements. Delivering all of the benefits of Pilates, these machines are crafted to improve your strength, flexibility, coordination, and balance. But it's often inconvenient and expensive to join a reformer class at a local studio. The best Pilates reformers for home use let you reap the benefits of Pilates from the comfort of your own home. Pamela Trujillo, NASM-CPT, certified personal trainer and Pilates instructor at SLT, recommends looking for high-quality craftsmanship, a comfortable carriage, and a padded foot bar. To find the best Pilates reformers, we researched dozens of machines from popular, trusted brands and evaluated them based on material, comfort, adjustability, and value. Our Top Picks Best Overall: Stamina AeroPilates Pro XP 556 Reformer at Amazon ($1,200) Jump to Review Best Budget: AeroPilates Reformer 287 at Amazon ($382) Jump to Review Best Foldable: Align Pilates F3 Folding Reformer at Amazon ($2,900) Jump to Review Best Investment : Frame Fitness Pilates Reformer at Framefitness.com (See Price) Jump to Review Best Advanced: Sportline Superior Cadillac Reformer at Amazon (See Price) Jump to Review Best Bundle: Merrithew At Home SPX Reformer Bundle at Amazon ($3,000) Jump to Review Best Studio-Grade: Peak Pilates Casa Reformer at Peakpilates.com (See Price) Jump to Review Best for Small Spaces: Pilates Power Gym Plus Mini Reformer at Amazon ($870) Jump to Review Best Beginner: AeroPilates Premier Reformer at Amazon ($570) Jump to Review Best With Tower: AeroPilates Precision Series Reformer 610 at Amazon ($1,399) Jump to Review In This Article Expand Our Picks What to Look For How We Selected Our Experts Frequently Asked Questions Why Trust Verywell Fit Best Overall Stamina AeroPilates Pro XP 556 Reformer Amazon View On Amazon $1,200 View On Walmart $930 View On Dick's $900 Pros Highly adjustable Lots of padding Built-in transport wheels Cons May be difficult to assemble Key Specs Dimensions: 97 x 23.5 x 36 inches | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Special Features: Pulleys, straps, rebounder, foot bar Who It's For Best for beginner and intermediate exercisers who want one machine to support a complete exercise program. Why We Love It AeroPilates' Pro Reformer is our top overall pick because it's a versatile, comfortable reformer you can use for over 100 exercises. It has a padded back platform, an adjustable headrest, and high-density foam shoulder rests to support you as you tackle all your favorite Pilates exercises. At one end of the reformer, there's a padded foot bar that adjusts to three different positions. You can also remove the foot bar entirely and replace it with a low-impact rebounder for a cardio workout. The other end of the reformer has two strap-equipped pulleys you can grip with your hands or wrap around your ankles. These pulleys hook up to a four-cord resistance system, which you can easily adjust to match the intensity of your workouts. Made of aluminum and oak, this reformer is sturdy and durable. And we love that it comes with three DVDs, plus free access to an online library of workout videos. Another bonus? Built-in wheels make it easy to move around your home gym (or stow away when you're not using it). Potential Flaws Some users report that this reformer can be difficult to assemble, so you may need a friend to help you put it together. Best Budget AeroPilates Reformer 287 Amazon View On Amazon $382 Pros Folds up for storage Easy to assemble Lightweight Cons Not as many resistance levels Key Specs Dimensions: 85.3 x 17.5 x 9 inches | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Special Features: Pulleys, foot bar, straps, adjustable resistance Who It's For Best for beginners looking for a compact machine that won't break the bank. Why We Love It If you're new to Pilates or want to try it at home before making a large investment, we recommend AeroPilates' 287 Reformer. It's compact, with a small footprint that's ideal for apartments or other small spaces, and it folds up for simple storage. It's also not as elaborate as some other reformers on our list are, which means it's easier to assemble. Designed with bungee cord resistance, rather than springs like other machines, this reformer glides back and forth smoothly. We also like that it has a padded platform, a padded foot bar, and pulleys with padded foot and hand straps. Included with your purchase are three expert-guided DVD programs to lead you through different workouts. This reformer may not have all the bells and whistles of some others on our list, but we love that you can still get a full-body workout at home without spending a small fortune. Potential Flaws This reformer only has three resistance levels, which may not be enough for some workouts. Best Foldable Align Pilates F3 Folding Reformer Amazon View On Amazon $2,900 View On Pilatesreformersplus.com Pros Compact Folds up with one hand Smooth, quiet ride Cons May be difficult to assemble Key Specs Dimensions: 95 x 27.5 x 9 inches | Weight Capacity: 265 pounds | Special Features: Adjustable foot bar, spring resistance, adjustable straps, rope risers Who It's For Best if you have storage space constraints and need a machine you can easily maneuver by yourself. Why We Love It Align Pilates' F3 Folding Reformer is our top pick if you need a compact machine that easily folds up. It can even be done one-handed. Screw-in knobs on each side of the reformer lock the frame in place, both in flat and folded positions, so the reformer stays secure during workouts and in storage. There are even adjustable feet on the bottom so you can make sure the machine sits flat and stable. And we like that it can be easily rolled out of the way when it's folded up. Align Pilates' Reformer also features rope risers with three height options and a silent pulley system for a quiet workout. The risers also detach and clip into the frame for storage when the machine is folded up. Other nice-to-haves include an adjustable foot bar with four positions, a three-position headrest, and double loop handles. Plus, the carriage is uniquely designed so the wheels never cross the folding joint—creating a super smooth ride. Potential Flaws Some users have found that it takes two people to assemble this reformer. Best Investment Frame Fitness Pilates Reformer Frame View On Framefitness.com Pros Color-coded, adjustable spring weights Built-in touchscreen Loaded with features Cons Large footprint Workouts can only be accessed through paid membership Key Specs Dimensions: 94 x 25.5 x 36 inches | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | Special Features: Pulleys, foot bar, straps, adjustable dual-spring resistance, built-in swivel touchscreen Who It's For Best for people who have space for a larger reformer, especially if you want access to workout classes. Why We Love It If you're looking for a fully loaded, high-tech, beautiful machine (and you have the budget to splurge), Frame Fitness's Pilates Reformer is our top pick. It arrives via white glove delivery, so there's no lengthy setup or assembly process. A truly luxe piece of equipment, this reformer features dual-spring technology, eliminating the need for two platforms. Color-coded, adjustable spring weights (of up to 260 pounds) let you easily control your movement and level up when you need a challenge. It also comes equipped with straps, pulleys, and a foot bar for a completely customizable workout. We also love that Frame Fitness' Reformer has a built-in touchscreen that swivels and is sweat-resistant, for streaming classes. If you purchase the brand's $39 monthly membership, you'll get access to personalized training recommendations, plus a library of over 100 live and on-demand classes—including Pilates, yoga, stretching, cardio, and strength workouts. With hidden wheels and a compact frame, this reformer is easy to move and store when needed. If you have the space and budget to splurge, we highly recommend investing in this top-quality Pilates reformer that will keep you coming back for more. Potential Flaws This reformer has a large footprint compared to others on our list, so we don't recommend it for small spaces.You can't access the brand's training recommendations or workout classes unless you invest in an additional monthly membership. Best Advanced Sportline Superior Cadillac Reformer Amazon View On Amazon View On Pilatesconnector.com Pros Studio-grade Loaded with features Dynamic Cons Large and heavy Pricier than other options Key Specs Dimensions: 92 x 26 x 84 inches | Weight Capacity: Not listed | Special Features: Straps, springs, Cadillac, roll-down bar, push-through bar, vertical and horizontal sliding bars, swing, jump board Who It's For Best for intermediate to advanced exercisers who want a professional-grade Pilates reformer. Why We Love It Once you master advanced Pilates exercises on the mat, it's time to invest in a reformer that can help you level up your practice. We recommend Sportline's Superior Cadillac Reformer, a studio-grade reformer that boasts a built-in sitting box and a jump board. It also comes with a roll-down bar, a push-through bar, a vertical sliding bar, a horizontal sliding bar, and a swing. Plus, plenty of accessories are included with your purchase, like a pair of ropes, a pair of hand grips, a strap, and 10 springs. This array of accessories might sound overwhelming. But because you can mix and match them to tackle a range of dynamic exercises, they’ll help you get the most out of your reformer. We like this machine's sleek, chrome design and its wood base that dampens sound to minimize noise during your workouts. If you have the space and the budget, this beautiful reformer can seriously elevate your Pilates program. Potential Flaws This reformer is very large and heavy—the brand recommends purchasing its assembly service to minimize frustration after it's delivered. It's also much pricier than most of our other top picks, although we think it's worth the investment if you're searching for a truly all-in-one reformer. Best Bundle Merrithew At Home SPX Reformer Bundle Amazon View On Amazon $3,000 View On Merrithew.com Pros Comfortable Adjustable Relatively compact Cons Large footprint Low weight capacity Key Specs Dimensions: 96 x 26 x 10 inches | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Special Features: Straps, foot bar, roll-up pole, reformer box Who It's For Best if you're looking for a highly adjustable machine that comes with everything you need to get started. Why We Love It Merrithew's SPX Reformer Bundle includes one classic reformer and all the accessories you need to start enjoying it. At one end of the reformer, you’ll find an adjustable foot bar that moves through four different positions. At the other, you’ll find two straps, which you can easily connect to the hand grips or roll-up pole that are included in the bundle. The padded back platform can be adjusted to six positions—and you can use the padded platform extender to make it even longer, if needed. Also nice? The bundle comes with a reformer box you can use to modify your workouts. This can be a particularly great way to alleviate pressure on tight hips. All of these accessories included in this bundle allow you the ability to perform over 250 exercises. And we like that your purchase comes with 60 days of access to digital workouts on Merrithew Connect. Potential Flaws This reformer has a fairly large footprint, meaning it takes up a solid amount of space.It has a lower weight capacity compared to many of our other top picks. Best Studio-Grade Peak Pilates Casa Reformer Amazon View On Peakpilates.com View On Pilatesreformersplus.com Pros One-touch adjusters Lightweight Studio height Cons Low weight capacity Key Specs Dimensions: 97 x 25 x 16 inches | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Special Features: Pulleys, straps, hand bar Who It's For Best for exercisers who want to supplement their studio practice at home with a machine that creates a seamless transition. Why We Love It Peak Pilates' Casa Reformer is our recommendation for a studio-grade reformer that's designed with at-home use in mind. The compact reformer is lightweight but sturdy. And since it’s studio height, it should feel pretty familiar for anyone who enjoys group Pilates classes. This reformer has all the essentials, like an adjustable hand bar and two strap-equipped pulleys that you can easily customize using the reformer’s one-touch adjusters. It also has a three-position headrest that you can move for the perfect fit and feel. We like that with your purchase, you get a two-month subscription to the Pilates Project app, where you can access on-demand classes designed for all fitness levels. Potential Flaws We wish this reformer had a higher capacity, considering its price. Best for Small Spaces Pilates Power Gym Plus Mini Reformer Amazon View On Amazon $870 Pros Folds flat for storage Great value No assembly required Cons May not be as durable Doesn't come with any accessories Key Specs Dimensions: 53 x 26 x 26 inches | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Special Features: Adjustable raised platform, push up bar, foot strap attachments Who It's For Best for people who don't have a dedicated home gym space. Why We Love It Many of the reformers on our list fold up or stand upright for storage. But if you are really tight on space, we recommend Pilates Power Gym's Plus Mini Reformer for its compact design and fold-flat feature. It's only 53 inches long—so even when it's in use, it doesn't take up a lot of floor space. And we like that you can easily store it under a bed when you're finished exercising. Even though it's compact, this reformer still provides a solid workout, thanks to a three-position raised platform, a push up bar, four resistance cords, and foot strap attachments. We love that it comes fully assembled, so you can get started right away. The tension cords have a quick-release design that allows you to transition smoothly between exercises. One of the best values on our list, Pilates Power Gym's Plus Mini Reformer also comes with three DVD workouts led by celebrity trainers. Potential Flaws Some users report that parts of this reformer, like the carabiners, may not be as durable.This machine doesn't come with any accessories, although you can purchase those separately. Best Beginner AeroPilates Premier Reformer Amazon View On Amazon $570 View On Walmart $512 View On Dick's $750 Pros Adjustable stand Great value Folds up for storage Cons Not as many resistance levels Key Specs Dimensions: 86.3 x 20 x 14 inches | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | Special Features: Pulley, straps, rebounder Who It's For Best for beginners looking for a basic machine that includes exercise guidance. Why We Love It AeroPilates' Premier Reformer is our top pick for a basic machine that boasts all the features you need to get started with Pilates. The entire reformer rests on an adjustable stand you can use to elevate your reformer as much as you want to for ease of use and more exercise variety. It also folds up and rolls away for storage. We like that this reformer has a rebounder for low-impact stretching and cardio, plus two pulleys attached to plush straps that you can grip with your hands or wrap around your ankles to tackle different exercises. These pulleys are connected to an easy-to-adjust cable system, so you can customize your workouts based on your needs. A great reformer at a great value, AeroPilates' Premier Reformer also comes with two workout DVDs and a wall chart to guide you through your workout. Potential Flaws This machine doesn't have as many resistance levels as some other reformers on our list do. However, we still think it's a great investment for beginners, as you won't need a ton of resistance levels to get started. Best With Tower AeroPilates Precision Series Reformer 610 Amazon View On Amazon $1,399 View On Staminaproducts.com View On Samsclub.com $1,298 Pros Loaded with features Tower height is adjustable Padded platform Cons May be difficult to assemble Carriage may not glide smoothly Key Specs Dimensions: 85.8 x 23.8 x 20.5 inches | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | Special Features: Straps, springs, rebounder, tower, push-through bar, roll-down bar Who It's For Best for intermediate exercisers who want the added versatility that a tower provides. Why We Love It AeroPilates' Precision Cadillac Reformer is our favorite reformer that comes with a tower. We love that it's easy to use and provides a great workout. Like many of our other picks, this machine comes with a rebounder. But the tower also features a push-through bar, a roll-down bar, a set of springs, and a pair of straps you can use for different upper- and lower-body exercises. We like that the tower’s height is adjustable, for a customizable experience. And since the reformer’s platform is padded, it promises to be pretty comfortable, too. Your purchase also includes free access to on-demand, online workout videos led by a certified trainer and designed specifically for the Cadillac to show you all the additional exercises you can do with it. Potential Flaws Some users have noted that assembly can be challenging—you'll probably need a friend to help you put it together.Others have found that the carriage may not glide as smoothly over the center of the frame. Best Smart Reformer Flexia Smart Reformer Flexia View On Flexiapilates.com Pros Real-time movement feedback Stores upright 48 adjustable settings Cons Doesn't come with its own tablet Key Specs Dimensions: 94 x 30 x 29.5 inches | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | Special Features: Footbar, springbar, adjustable ropes, springs, real-time movement sensor Who It's For Best for exercisers of all levels who like detailed feedback and tracking their workout statistics. Why We Love It When it comes to a smart Pilates reformer, Flexia's Smart Reformer is our top pick. We love that it provides real-time feedback on your muscle strength and movements as you work out. Sensors built into the machine gather feedback and calculate a Movement Quality Score, which tailors future workouts to help you meet your goals. The longer and more often you use the machine, the more accurate your movement score will be. This machine is made from solid cherry hardwood and aluminum, with 48 adjustable settings. We like that it's suitable for users up to 6 feet, 6 inches tall and can be stored upright when you're not using it. Once you purchase a monthly membership, you can create a profile to store all of your data and access workouts from quick, 10-minute stretches to hour-long workouts. Potential Flaws We think it's a little odd that this smart reformer doesn't come with a tablet or touchscreen. However, we like that you can stream workouts from any device and position the device wherever you need it. Best for Taller Users Balanced Body Allegro Stretch Reformer Amazon View On Amazon $3,745 View On Pilates.com Pros Large frame and carriage Eight-wheel suspension system 5-position foot bar Cons Large footprint Pricier than other options Key Specs Dimensions: 111 x 36 x 14.5 inches | Weight Capacity: Not listed | Special Features: Adjustable footbar, spring resistance, adjustable straps Who It's For Best for tall users with a lot of floor space. Why We Love It When you're tall, finding exercise equipment that is effective, comfortable, and safe to use can be a challenge. We like that Balanced Body's Allegro Stretch Reformer is specifically designed for taller people. The frame is 18 inches longer than the brand's original Allegro Reformer, and the carriage is 2 inches wider and 6 inches longer. At one end, the padded footbar is adjustable, with five different positions to accommodate exercisers of all heights. This reformer has five spring resistance levels and an eight-wheel suspension system on the carriage to provide a smooth, comfortable ride. It also has built-in wheels for portability, and we like that it can stand upright when not in use. For added versatility, there's an optional 14-inch leg kit sold separately so you can elevate the reformer off the floor. Potential Flaws This reformer takes up a decent amount of floor space.It's one of the pricier machines on our list, but we think the investment is worth it for how adjustable it is. What to Look for When Shopping for a Pilates Reformer Type: There are many types of reformers—Cadillac reformers, studio reformers, and home reformers are a few examples. Erika Driscoll, certified classical Pilates instructor through Power Pilates, recommends purchasing the type that meets your fitness goals. If you're a beginner, she recommends prioritizing safety and investing in a high-quality reformer that comes with multiple accessories to help you can advance your practice. Dimensions: Most reformers take up a lot of space. Double-check the dimensions of any machine you're considering to make sure it fits comfortably in your home. If you have a smaller room, you may want a foldable Pilates reformer that can stand upright when not in use. Weight Capacity: Some Pilates reformers are stronger than others, so it’s smart to check a reformer’s weight capacity (or “maximum training load”) before buying. Make sure to factor in any weights you plan to use while on the machine. Adjustability: Driscoll suggests choosing a reformer that has an adjustable spring bar, foot bar, and headrest for the greatest range of motion. This is also key if multiple people will be using the same reformer. Special Features: Some Pilates reformers come with accessories to make your workouts more challenging and dynamic. For example, Driscoll recommends adding a jump board—a padded board added in front of a regular footboard that can be used to make your workouts more difficult. How We Selected the Best Pilates Reformers To find the best Pilates reformers on the market, we first consult experts to learn which features every model should have. Then, we spend hours researching dozens of products from top, trusted fitness brands. We carefully review each reformer's specifications and customer reviews to find the best options at every price point. As we continue to research the latest Pilates reformers, we keep these criteria in mind: Materials: Which materials a reformer is made of can affect its quality and durability. We prioritize machines with hardwood and metal frames that are sturdy and durable. We also look for thick, padded platforms and soft straps for a more pleasant user experience.Comfort: We look for padded shoulder pads, platforms and straps that will make the reformer comfortable to use. We also consider the length and height of a machine and how well it can accommodate users of different sizes.Adjustability: We prioritize reformers with plenty of adjustable features. Can the footbar, headrest, and other components shift into different positions? How many resistance levels foes it have? Can you adjust the height? We also evaluate how easy the machine is to adjust.Overall Value: To assess each reformer's value, we ask ourselves whether the price accurately reflects its design and features. Is this a reformer we would use ourselves? Would we buy it at full price, or only if it went on sale? Our Experts We consulted experts at every stage while researching and reporting this story. These experts helped us understand how to use Pilates reformers, which features to look for in a high-quality machine, and how to choose the right one for your home. Although we choose products independently, expert input influences our decisions. Pamela Trujillo, NASM-CPT, NASM-certified personal trainer and Pilates instructor at SLT Erika Driscoll, certified classical Pilates instructor through Power Pilates Kamille McCollum, Chief Operating Officer of Bodybar Pilates Frequently Asked Questions Is using a Pilates reformer a form of strength training? Pilates has many benefits, including increased core strength, toned muscles, and better mental and physical strength, says Trujillo. Pilates can be an excellent way to build strength, and since reformers make it easy to customize your experience, your strength-training workouts can be as strenuous—or as beginner-friendly—as you want them to be. Is the Pilates reformer good for weight loss? Using a Pilates reformer can help you build strength and work up a sweat—both of which may help you lose weight. Some workout programs and machines make it easy to incorporate cardio bursts, says Kamille McCollum, Chief Operating Officer of Bodybar Pilates, which may help you burn more calories. How often should I use a Pilates reformer? If you’re new to Pilates, you might want to start slowly—consider alternating between using a reformer and other equipment, like balance boards or an elliptical machine. Make sure to talk to your primary care provider before starting a new exercise routine. Can I use a Pilates reformer while pregnant? You may be able to use a Pilates reformer while pregnant, but be sure to talk to your primary care provider before doing so (especially if you’ve never used one before). Depending on how far along you are in your pregnancy, certain modifications may help you get the most out of your Pilates practice. How much does a Pilates reformer cost? You can expect to pay between $800 and $8,000 for a high-quality Pilates reformer. Less expensive options may not be as sturdy, and they may be missing key features, like rebounders, jump boards, and more. Why Trust Verywell Fit As a seasoned health and fitness writer, Lindsey Lanquist understands how vital quality product recommendations can be. She is careful to recommend products that are reliable, comfortable, and genuinely well-reviewed by those who’ve tried them. 1 Source Verywell Fit uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Kloubec J. Pilates: how does it work and who needs it?. Muscles Ligaments Tendons J. 2011;1(2):61-66. See Our Editorial Process Meet Our Review Board Share Feedback Was this page helpful? Thanks for your feedback! What is your feedback? Helpful Report an Error Other Submit