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 special machines are crafted to enhance the workout and 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 home. When shopping for a reformer, Pamela Trujillo, NASM-CPT, a 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 first spoke with experts like Trujillo to learn which key features every machine should have. We then researched and reviewed dozens of Pilates reformers from popular, trusted brands and tested five of the top-rated options in the Verywell Testing Lab under the guidance of Monica Saliu, PT, DPT, a New York-based physical therapist and certified Pilates instructor. We evaluated each reformer’s materials, performance, comfort, adjustability, versatility, features, ease of use, and value. We also had a certified personal trainer from our Review Board review this article for accuracy surrounding what to look for in Pilates reformers and how to use them properly.
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Key Specs
Dimensions: 96.5 x 25 x 99 inches | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Features: Weighted roll-up pole, reformer box, pulleys, foot bar, straps, adjustable five-spring resistance, noise-reducing spring covers | Our Overall Rating: 4.9/5
Who It’s For
Best for frequent Pilates practitioners of all experience levels who want a stable, comfortable workout, even during hard-core, sweat-inducing sessions.
Why We Love It
Out of all the reformers we tested, Merrithew’s At Home SPX Reformer Package was the sturdiest, most versatile, and easiest to put together, making it our top overall pick. We like that the bundle includes several accessories and that most of the reformer machine comes pre-assembled for a quick and straightforward setup. During tests, the reformer stood out for its sturdy build and smooth, stable performance, particularly during high-intensity workouts, and we loved the adjustable foot bar and the five-spring resistance that make it versatile enough for all experience levels.
We found the carriage well-padded, with breathable, cushioned hand and foot straps and a firm yet comfortable shoulder pad that kept our head and spine aligned for optimal form. We like that the back platform can be adjusted to six positions—and you can use the included platform extender to make it even longer if needed.
The reformer set also comes with a weighted roll-up pole bar, hand grips, and a reformer box that can be used to modify workouts or alleviate pressure on tight hips. All these accessories allow you to perform over 250 exercises, plus you get 60 days of access to digital workouts on Merrithew Connect and a lifetime warranty—a worthy investment for any dedicated Pilates practitioner.
Potential Flaws
- The fixed-length straps on this reformer are difficult to adjust without flipping the machine on its side to retie, making it less ideal for sharing between users of different heights.
- The shoulder pads are screwed in, making them challenging (though not impossible) to remove—limiting and inconvenient for when you want a flat carriage option on the fly.
Most Valuable Insights
“I love how well made it is—the machine feels safe and stable, and the padding on the carriage, the foot bar, and the shoulder pads is soft and makes for a comfortable workout.” —Abby Moore, Verywell Fit product tester
“It is the most sturdy and safe reformer we tested. It is a great investment for frequent Pilates practitioners, although it is pricey. It can handle high-intensity use and provides a comfortable workout experience.” —Monica Saliu, PT, DPT, Verywell Fit on-site expert and product tester
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Key Specs
Dimensions: 93 x 36 x 14 inches | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | Features: Pulleys, adjustable five-position foot bar, adjustable straps, three-position headrest, adjustable five-spring resistance, wheels for portability | Our Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Who It’s For
Best if you’re a beginner who has ample home gym space and wants a straightforward machine to get started with.
Why We Love It
Balanced Body’s Allegro Reformer is our top pick for a machine with the user-friendly features needed to get started with Pilates. When testing, we found it smooth and stable during dynamic movements, thanks to an eight-wheel suspension system on the carriage, with no noticeable unevenness or shifting. The padded platform and foot bar were comfortable during exercises, and the easy-to-adjust straps and cleats provided a secure fit.
The reformer has five color-coded spring resistance levels to challenge different fitness levels, and the intuitive foot bar adjustment makes transitions easy, especially for beginners. Pilates newbies also get to enjoy access to free instructional videos on the Balanced Body streaming video platform and a lifetime warranty. Lightweight and maneuverable, this reformer has built-in wheels for portability, and we like that it can stand upright when not in use. As a beginner, you can further upgrade your Allegro reformer at checkout with an optional sitting box, foot strap, and jump board to advance your workouts as you progress over time.
Note: this reformer sits low to the ground, so if you have mobility challenges or lower body joint issues, there’s an optional 14-inch leg kit sold separately that elevates the reformer off the floor for improved accessibility.
Potential Flaws
- The color-coded spring resistance levels aren’t explicitly labeled on this reformer, which can be confusing for beginners.
- While mostly straightforward, the assembly instructions felt incomplete and could have been more detailed for beginners.
Most Valuable Insights
“This reformer is great for small spaces in the home as it can be positioned and stored upright against the wall when not in use. It feels very solid and stable, and the constructed materials feel high-quality, so I’m sure it’ll be very durable.” —Amy Kwan, Verywell Fit product tester
“It’s a great product for beginners and those with ample space. It is stable and solid, but the spring resistance is not labeled, which can be confusing for users.” —Monica Saliu, PT, DPT, Verywell Fit on-site expert and product tester
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Spring settings are easy to adjust
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Lightweight, portable design
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Well-cushioned platforms and handlebars
Key Specs
Dimensions: 71.1 x 18.5 x 5.5 inches | Weight Capacity: 250 pounds | Features: 360-degree foot and hand bar, headrest, adjustable four-spring resistance, rear and front handles (upgraded package), rear platform (upgraded package) | Our Overall Rating: 4.8/5
Who It’s For
Best for advanced Pilates practitioners who want a challenging machine for small spaces or on-the-go use.
Why We Love It
With Lagree’s Micro Microformer, you can get a great workout anywhere for a lower price than other options on our list, making it our top pick for best value. Lightweight and portable, this machine has a sleek, compact design that is great if you have a small home studio space or prefer to take your Pilates practice on the go. Designed specifically for the Lagree method, this small but mighty machine foregoes hand and foot straps and a traditional carriage to focus on power, strength, and balance work in your practice.
Since it arrived nearly fully assembled, we only needed to attach the handlebars, which made it easy to start our workout right away. We found the color-coded, four-spring settings easy to adjust and challenging for targeting smaller muscles during a wide range of exercises. The machine is comfortable and stable, with padded handlebars and a well-cushioned, smooth gliding platform.
Potential Flaws
- During installation, we noticed that one side of the handlebars was quite wobbly, but we still felt stable when using the reformer.
- This reformer lacks hand and foot-stretching straps, a supportive carriage for the spine, and a small platform, requiring you to have an advanced level of balance, core strength, and hamstring flexibility and mobility. Also, due to the lack of foot bar adjustability, we found it might be challenging to achieve full extension during planks if you have a shorter frame.
Most Valuable Insight
“I like how smoothly the platform glided with each movement. Even when the resistance was higher, the wheels on the platforms were quiet and smooth to push. It felt well made. It’s also nice how compact it is if you have limited space.”–Abby Moore, Verywell Fit product tester.
Bonus Favorites
Although we haven’t tested these Pilates reformers, they still have similar, high-quality features to the reformers we were able to test. Keeping expert recommendations in mind, we think these are worth considering even though we weren’t able to test them out ourselves.
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Compact
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Folds up with one hand
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Smooth, quiet ride
Key Specs
Dimensions: 95 x 27.5 x 9 inches | Weight Capacity: 265 pounds | Features: Adjustable foot bar, spring resistance, adjustable straps, rope risers
Who It’s For
Best for someone who has storage space constraints and needs a machine that can be easily maneuvered by one person.
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.
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Key Specs
Dimensions: 94 x 25.5 x 36 inches | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | Features: Pulleys, foot bar, straps, adjustable dual-spring resistance, built-in swivel touchscreen
Who It’s For
Best if you 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 (offering up to 260 pounds of resistance) allow you to 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 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.
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Key Specs
Dimensions: 92 x 26 x 84 inches | Weight Capacity: Not listed | 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 even more. We recommend Sportline’s Superior Cadillac Reformer, a studio-grade reformer with 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.
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One-touch adjusters
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Lightweight
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Studio height
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 seamless transitions.
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, which allow you to adjust the length of the reformer’s straps with just one hand. 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 weight capacity, considering its price.
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Folds flat for storage
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Great value
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No assembly required
Key Specs
Dimensions: 53 x 26 x 26 inches | Weight Capacity: 300 pounds | 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 and need a more compact Pilates reformer.
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 as pricier options.
- This machine doesn’t come with any accessories, although you can purchase those separately.
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Key Specs
Dimensions: 85.8 x 23.8 x 20.5 inches | Weight Capacity: 350 pounds | 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 in Pilates.
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.
Pilates Reformers We Also Tested
Not all the Pilates reformers we tested earned a spot in our final list of recommendations. Although we liked some of its features, the following Pilates reformer ultimately didn’t impress us enough to be selected for our list of top picks.
- AeroPilates’ Premier Studio 700 is compact, with a sleek appearance. However, we found it challenging to set up, poorly constructed, and unstable, plus it had limited spring resistance, straps, and adjustable features.
What We’ve Updated
- Since our initial research-based recommendations for the best Pilates reformers, we updated our product picks after getting our hands on top reformers to test for ourselves. Based on insights collected following our test, we were able to update this list with the top reformers from our real-world experience.
- We consulted one new expert who helped us outline testing guidelines, assisted on-site during our tests, and ensured that our advice on choosing a Pilates reformer was still current.
- We’ve updated our key specs throughout this article to include our overall rating for each Pilates reformer we tested to give you an all-encompassing score based on our experience.
- We’ve also shortened our list of recommendations to only highlight the best Pilates reformers currently on the market.
Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
How We Selected and Tested the Pilates Reformers
To find the best Pilates reformers on the market, we first consulted four experts—including certified Pilates instructors, certified personal trainers, and physical therapists—to learn which features every model should have. We then spent hours researching dozens of products from top, trusted fitness brands and carefully reviewed each reformer’s specifications and customer reviews to find the best options at every price point. Finally, we tested five top-rated options under the guidance of experts, including an on-site certified Pilates instructor and physical therapist. When we test and review Pilates reformers, we keep the following key criteria in mind.
- Ease of Setup: To evaluate setup, we unbox and assemble each Pilates reformer according to the enclosed instructions. How straightforward is the setup process for the Pilates reformer, and how long does it take? Does the reformer come with pre-assembled components, or does everything need to be assembled from scratch? We prioritize Pilates reformers that are easy to set up and come with clear instructions.
- Comfort: How comfortable is the overall design and the padding on the reformer carriage during exercises? During testing, we note how padded the shoulder pads, platforms, and straps are since they will make the reformer comfortable. Do we experience any discomfort or pressure points while using the reformer? How does the reformer’s design contribute to overall comfort during workouts? We consider how the design, length, and height of a machine can accommodate users of different sizes and contribute to the overall comfort of the user experience.
- Performance: Quality Pilates reformers provide effective, challenging resistance while remaining stable during dynamic exercises. Do we feel challenged enough by the resistance levels available on the reformer? How stable does the reformer feel during various exercises? We choose reformers that allow you to perform a wide range of Pilates exercises with proper form, control, and safety.
- Features: When testing, we observe what additional features the reformer has, such as adjustable foot bar positions or resistance settings. Are there any unique features on the reformer that enhance the experience or safety? Reformers with intuitive and user-friendly features, control mechanisms, and adjustment options earn our top ratings.
- Versatility: We appreciate Pilates reformers that provide versatility for a wide range of users. How versatile and easy to use is the reformer for different body sizes and fitness levels? Are both beginners and advanced users able to perform a variety of exercises that target different muscle groups with appropriate resistances on the reformer? We prioritize reformers with the versatility to meet a wide range of fitness goals and preferences.
- 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 or recommend to others? Would we buy it at full price, or only if it went on sale?
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 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 works for your body height and 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. Look for a reformer with a robust frame, says Saliu, and make sure to factor in any weights you plan to use while on the machine.
- Adjustability: Driscoll and Saliu suggest 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.
- Added Features: Some Pilates reformers come with accessories, feature options, or add-ons (e.g. spring count, boxes, towers, or strap loops versus handles) 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.
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. Some, like Trujillo, Driscoll, and McCollum, taught us what features and materials the best Pilates reformers have and how they should perform. Others, like Saliu, helped us create, refine, and conduct our testing process. Although we choose products independently, advice from experts influences our decisions.
- Monica Saliu, PT, DPT, certified Pilates instructor and physical therapist at Tribeca Physical Therapy in New York City
- 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 at Bodybar Pilates
Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
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. In addition to strengthening your core, it also encourages good posture—both are essential to improving balance. 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, which may help you burn more calories, says McCollum.
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. Generally speaking, doing Pilates multiple times per week is safe and effective, depending on your fitness goal. Always 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.
Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Why Trust Verywell Fit
Jessica Murtaugh, NASM-CPT, CNC, is a Los Angeles-based certified personal trainer and health, fitness, and lifestyle writer dedicated to recommending trustworthy products and evidence-based practices to help readers achieve sustainable wellness. An avid runner, she finds reformer Pilates beneficial in her cross-training for stretching and strengthening her entire body to combat injuries and overuse. For this guide, she thoroughly reviewed testing insights from Verywell Fit’s Pilates reformers test and only recommended options that received high scores, with features recommended by experts.
Additional reporting by Lindsey Lanquist and Michelle Parente.
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.
Michelle Parente, CYT, is a New York City-based yoga sculpt instructor and lifestyle journalist specializing in health, wellness, and fitness. As an editor for Verywell Fit, she is dedicated to providing reliable product recommendations. With over two years of experience taking reformer Pilates classes on various types of reformers, Michelle knows exactly what to look for. In this article, she focused on selecting high-quality, functional machines from reputable brands.
