Pilates Reformers for Pilates Training

Pilates Reformer Buying Guide

You may be familiar with the Pilates reformer from your Pilates studio and reformer classes. They have, however, become increasingly popular as a piece of kit for home gym use. Here we provide you with a guide on purchasing your own Pilates reformer. We stock a range of pilates equipment and accessories, including reformers, mats, rings and balls. 

What Is A Pilates Reformer?

Joseph Pilates invented the Pilates reformer. A reformer is essentially a resistance tool which promotes the development of good alignment, core strength and flexibility. Pilates reformer exercises can be done lying down, standing or sitting. They offer a range of variations. 

Most of the reformer exercises, however, are about pushing or pulling the carriage or holding it steady during an exercise. Exercises vary according to whether you are a beginner or an expert.

The Benefits Of Using A Reformer

The pilates reformer provides you with a huge variety of exercises, all working on your strength, flexibility, coordination and balance. This will all help improve your overall fitness, but many also find it very helpful in targeting key problems like back pain. The exercises also build strong bones and long, strong muscles as the reformer is set up for eccentric contraction. The core is also a main beneficiary, as the instability of the rolling carriage really challenges our core.

What’s The Difference Between Using A Reformer And A Pilates Mat?

There is nothing wrong with performing your Pilates on a Pilates mat. For many beginners, this is a good place to start and helps with learning the basic techniques and positioning. There is also an argument that using a mat and relying solely on your body’s resistance, with no external support, builds high levels of muscle endurance very quickly. However, the benefit of a machine like a reformer is that resistance doesn’t just come from your body; it comes from the pulleys and springs as well.

We have a range of Pilates accessories that can be used on their own or in conjunction with a pilates reformer. 

Pilates Cadillacs 

There are four main types of Pilates studio equipment; Cadillac, Reformer, Ladder Barrel and Wunda Chair. The Pilates Cadillac can also be referred to as the rack or even the trapeze table due to its swing and bars. The Cadillac is a raised horizontal table surrounded by a four poster frame on which bars, straps, springs and levers are fixed. The reason it looks the way it does is that Joseph Pilates was originally using the design on war veterans, so it does resemble something like a hospital bed. Models vary according to what they offer, but a standard Cadillac will include a push-through bar, a roll-down bar, a crossbar, arm springs, leg springs, and thigh and ankle cuffs.

What To Look For When Buying A Reformer 

A Pilates reformer is an excellent piece of kit, but it can cost money. So to ensure you spend your money wisely, consider the following before making your purchase.

Pilates Reformer Price

Remember, you do get what you pay for. A good quality pilates reformer will last longer than a cheaper model. Regard the purchase as an investment and see it as something that should save you money in the long run, as you will no longer have to pay out for Pilates studios.

Personal Comfort When Using A Reformer

Ensure you choose a model with a well-padded carriage, as it will prevent any discomfort or bruising. Check that it suits your height and weight and that it has adjustable headrests and straps, as they are also useful.

High Quality Pilates Reformer

Always look for a good quality build, as this will ensure that you make a good, long-term investment. So look for solid metal, good quality wood and also a reformer that can support at least 300 pounds in weight.

The Versatility Of Pilates Reformers 

As with above, if you are going to invest in an expensive piece of kit, do check that it can grow with you. So look for adjustable resistance levels so that as you get fitter you can adjust your fitness goals. It also helps to have adjustable straps and ropes. Look for at least three resistance levels. Also, consider a reformer that can be adapted in the future with different add-ons so you can continue to add variety to your Pilates workout.

Do You Have Space For A Full-Size Pilates Reformer?

You may be lucky and have a good-sized home gym ready and waiting for a reformer, but if you need it to fit in a small space, then size up the machine accordingly. Some can be easily stacked up, and some can be folded away.