Possibly, the first question most home Pilates enthusiasts ask!
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Most clients considering a foldable Pilates reformer are doing so, due to their space requirements. More importantly, one needs to take note of the negatives which can be hidden within the finer details of foldable Pilates machines.
There are Pilates Reformer machines which are small and lightweight so that sliding it under the bed is a possibility. However, to achieve this, the carriage bed is dimensionally small, meaning you feel cramped. These Pilates Reformers use rubber bands instead of springs for resistance, which need to be replaced more frequently due to wear and tear. Each of these features can limit the exercise range you wish to achieve.
Lightweight means less material is used, which begs the question, 'what strength tests have been done to test the weight limits and longevity?'
Cupboard storage is usually possible with most models. The real question here is 'how easy is it to fold and wheel'?
One of the most obvious requirements for most clients purchasing a foldable Pilates reformer is easy foldable abilities. The last thing you want after your workout is to then have a second workout trying to fold your reformer back up. Some models even require you to remove the carriage first and then lay the reformer on its side to fold.
When looking to buy a foldable reformer for home, keep an eye out for demonstration videos available online showing how the reformer folds.
You may have noticed some foldable reformer options available with extension legs, raising the height of your reformer. The issue here will again be how can you fold and put it away? It is now a giant 'A frame' which won't fit in the cupboard or under a bed.
Often, wooden foldable reformers with legs are screwed into the wood with small wood screws, which cannot handle the side directional movement made when using a reformer. No use having legs that will simply fall out and become unusable.
Be wary of reformers made from beech wood! Though lighter than Maple, it is not as strong and quite orange in appearance. As mentioned before, wood is not the best supporter for screw in components such as legs and hinges, often becoming loose in the long term.
Forgetting to support the jump board with the foot bar, can be detrimental to your wooden reformer, as the weak joinery cannot handle this type of pressure.
The simple answer here is yes. However, when you consider the range of movements within the Pilates repertoire, for the most part, the wheels of the carriage should work either side of the join. However, when using a Jump Board, you will feel a bump in most cases as you're extending the carriage to the end of the runners.
There are some Foldable Pilates Reformers like the Align-Pilates F3 which have a clever way of not crossing the centre join. Unfortunately, removing the inconvenience of the 'bump' also removes the convenience of having the option to add a platform extension mattress. In the case of the Align-Pilates F3 Reformer, we have provided a fixated wide anti-slip platform at the end of the reformer to compensate.
If you desperately need to fold away your reformer machine due to space issues, then a foldable Pilates reformer is a suitable choice. Keep in mind, foldable doesn't always mean more affordable, and often, the difficult process of folding the reformer will mean you'll never fold it anyway.
It may be worth considering the Align-Pilates H1 Reformer. The H1 is a home designed reformer, is affordable, and can easily stand vertically without leaning on a wall, which is great even for those conscious space savers!
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.
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.
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.
Best Overall
Merrithew At Home SPX Reformer Bundle
PHOTO: Amazon
$3,199
Pros
Easy to assemble
Several resistance options for versatility
Sturdy and stable for a safe workout
Cons
Fixed-length straps are difficult to adjust
Shoulder pads are difficult to remove
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
'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
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Best for Beginners
Balanced Body Allegro Reformer
PHOTO: Amazon
Pros
Intuitive foot bar adjustment
Smooth carriage movement
Comfortable padding
Cons
Spring resistance levels aren't labeled
Incomplete assembly instructions
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
'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
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
Best Value
Lagree Micro Reformer
PHOTO: Lagree Shop
Pros
Spring settings are easy to adjust
Lightweight, portable design
Well-cushioned platforms and handlebars
Cons
Wobbly handlebar during installation
Designed for advanced users
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
'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.
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
PHOTO: Verywell Fit / Jessica Juliao
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.
gymfrog supply professional and honest service.
Best Foldable
Align Pilates F3 Folding Reformer
PHOTO: Amazon
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 | 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
Best High-Tech
Frame Fitness Pilates Reformer
PHOTO: Frame
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 | 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
Best Advanced
Sportline Superior Cadillac Reformer
PHOTO: Amazon
Pros
Studio-grade
Loaded with features
Great for total body workouts
Cons
Large and heavy
Pricier than other options
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
Best Studio-Grade
Peak Pilates Casa Reformer
PHOTO: Amazon
Pros
One-touch adjusters
Lightweight
Studio height
Cons
Lower weight capacity for the price
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
Best for Small Spaces
Pilates Power Gym Plus Mini Reformer
PHOTO: Amazon
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 | 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
Best With Tower
AeroPilates Precision Series Reformer 610
PHOTO: Amazon
$1,850
$1,110
Pros
Loaded with features
Tower height is adjustable
Padded platform
Cons
May be difficult to assemble
Carriage may not glide as smoothly as other options
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
For more foldable pilates reformerinformation, please contact us. We will provide professional answers.