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The 11 Best Pilates Machines for Your At-Home Toning Needs

Burn, baby, burn.

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best pilates reformer machine
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So you wanna get an at-home Pilates machine, huh? If you're all about that C-curve life, getting a Pilates reformer can be a great investment. Don't get me wrong, I love a good mat Pilates video, but there's just something about being on a reformer that seems to add a lil extra challenge to my workout. While you can get some of the same benefits of Pilates—ya know, core strength, better posture, the works—from a mat workout, using a reformer can take things to the next level. "With an at-home Pilates machine, you can work your deepest layer of core muscles called the transverse abdominis, your entire back, arms, glutes, legs, and feet. That’s the beauty of Pilates, that it works all the muscles in the body synergistically," explains Olivia Bowman-Jackson, Pilates Fusion instructor at Ailey Extension in New York City.

Of course, unless you're the heiress to a hotel fortune (hi, Paris!!), chances are you'll want to make this investment verrrry carefully, bc the best Pilates reformer machines out there cost some serious coin. But it'll be worth it to have the convenience of using the machine whenever you want without paying $$$ per studio class. To help you get the best bang for your buck, we spoke to professional Pilates instructors and experts to get their tips on the best Pilates machines to buy for your home workouts.

Both Ife Obi, certified Pilates instructor and founder of The Fit In fitness studio, and Tiffany Lauren Mason, certified Pilates instructor and founder of Harlem Pilates, recommend Balanced Body equipment for anyone looking to make the investment. "The functionality of certain elements—such as the headrest, footbar, carriage, rope, and pulley system—is very important," Mason says. "That’s why we advise investing in a reputable brand." For certified Pilates instructor and TabPilates founder Tabatha Koylass, her fave brand is AeroPilates. "I like this company, as they have complementary and accompanying system supports, DVDs, and online workouts," she says.

But don't worry if you're not ready to (or capable of) splurging on a big brand name. "Whatever reformer you can get your hands on is the right one for you, depending on your price point," says Heather Andersen, founder and owner of New York Pilates, "What truly matters is that you're moving your body—that's what we care about most, and there's no better way to do that than on a reformer machine."

If you're a Pilates devotee (or you just like to go all-in on new hobbies) and you have the space for a seven-foot-long piece of exercise equipment, then here are some of the top-rated Pilates reformer machines you can shop.

Best Overall Pilates Reformer Machine

Balanced Body Allegro Reformer

Allegro Reformer

Pros

  • Fast shipping
  • Easy to move

Cons

  • Will need additional assembly
  • Some reviewers say you may need a Pilates pillow for extra cushioning

Mason's top pick (and what she uses in her own studio) is this versatile AF workout machine. "What we love about the Allegro Reformer is it's a professional-grade reformer that's easy to move (you can add wheels to the legs!), and it doesn't take up a lot of space," she says. The machine stands on end for easy storage, and for an extra boost, you can opt to add on a 14-inch leg kit.

THE REVIEW: “Amazing piece of equipment, and well worth every penny,” writes one tester. “The assembly was very easy and very well explained in manual and online if you need further help.”

Length93"
Width36"
Height6.75"
Weight110 lbs
ExtrasFree streaming workout videos, double cotton loops, and transport wheels
Best Pilates Reformer Machine for Small Spaces

Balanced Body Metro IQ Reformer

Metro IQ Reformer
Credit: Pilates

Pros

  • Compact and foldable
  • More affordable than some of the brand's other models
  • Quick setup

Cons

  • Lower to the ground than some studio machines

While Obi is a big fan of the Allegro Reformer as well, she's also hype about this more compact (and less costly) version. "This one can fold and get tucked away under a bed or couch, making it good for those in NYC apartments like myself," she explains.

THE REVIEW: "I worked on Balance Body studio equipment for a year before having a hip replacement and deciding I needed a home reformer,” one reviewer writes. “This is a quality product from a quality company and I am happy to be working with a trainer again and gettin all the wonderful Pilates benefits—including full flexibility in my operative hip.”

Length62-98"
Width24"
Height5.5"
Footbar height18"
Weight85 lbs
ExtrasFree video selection
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Foldable Pilates Reformer for Strength Training
Credit: Amazon

Pros

  • Many reviewers noted it was easy to put together

Cons

  • Not suitable for those taller than 5'8" or weighing more than 250 lbs

This lightweight machine folds and is equipped with wheels for easy storage and transport. It comes with five resistant cords of 11 lbs each, so you can personalize your workout to your needs.

THE REVIEW: "5 stars for the price," writes one tester. "For a reformer that is a fraction of the cost of most, this one does the trick. I'm really really happy with my purchase, and have already gotten a couple sweats out of it."

Length77.5" to 81.5"
Width19.5"
Height15" above the ground, with an adjustable height up to 27.3"
Weight72 lbs
Best Hybrid Reformer Machine

ONYX ONYX Reformer

ONYX Reformer

Pros

  • Easy storage
  • One year access to ONYX ON Demand workouts included
  • Better price than some other hybrid machines
  • Free shipping

Cons

  • Still a splurge

The Onyx Reformer is Bowman-Jackson's choice for a hybrid machine (more on what that means later), especially if you want a machine that you can wheel away behind a door when you have friends over for happy hour. More importantly, this one comes with all the base accessories and a year-long subscription to the ONYX OnDemand workout program.

Length102"
Width23"
Heightmat: 8", handlebars: 16"
Weight95 lbs without accessories
Extras6-month ONYX Digital membership with VIP discounts on accessories and clothing
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most comfortable pilates reformer machine

Stamina AeroPilates Pro XP 556

AeroPilates Pro XP 556
Credit: Walmart

Pros

  • More affordable than some other at-home options
  • Comfy with a padded platform
  • Solid option for a low-impact workout

Cons

  • May not be the exact same quality you get in a studio class

With extended aluminum rails, a more padded platform, and footbars that are removable and adjustable, this machine will make your workout comfier than ever. And as a bonus, its oak wood accents make it look super chic. "I like AeroPilates Pro XP, as this is a good brand that came on the market for 'home' use during the pandemic," Koylass says.

Glowing Review: "Great price, great product, fast shipping. The whole experience was great. Got the machine home, put it together (which was also very easy) and the girlfriend was ecstatic," writes one reviewer. "She can't believe how well this model performs!"

Length97"
Width23.5"
Height36"
Weight137 lbs
most advanced pilates reformer machine

Balanced Body Allegro Tower of Power

Allegro Tower of Power

Pros

  • Gives you a total body studio experience
  • Stackable for storage

Cons

  • Heavy to lift
  • May be complicated to assemble without help

If you're lookin' to take your Pilates skills up a notch, try this model, which can be used as both a Cadillac and a reformer. This exercise tower will give you a total body studio experience from the comfort of home, plus it's stackable, which makes it easier to store when it's not in use.

Glowing Review: "The Balanced Body Allegro Tower of Power has been a superior piece of exercise equipment,” one reviewer writes, adding that they use their Pilates reformer “daily.”

Length93"
Width22.5"
HeightMat: 6.75"; Tower: 77.8"
Weight171 lbs
ExtrasFree video selection
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quietest pilates reformer machine

balanced body Studio Reformer

Studio Reformer
Credit: Pilates

Pros

  • Handles and pulleys are super quiet
  • Long carriage for height adjustment
  • Gives you a studio-like experience

Cons

  • Definitely an investment

For a reformer that definitely won't piss off your neighbors, go for this sleek, super quiet, wood-framed machine, which doesn't just look good—it's also a great choice for taller folks, given its long carriage. Choose from nine different upholstery options for total customization.

THE REVIEW: "This is the best investment that I’ve made in a while! There is definitely sticker shock when you hit the purchase button," one tester writes. "But if you do the math, it makes sense! It is exactly the same reformer as at my local pilates studio, so it’s easy to move forward with my practice."

Length93"
Width26.5"
HeightUnspecified
Weight152 lbs
ExtrasWorkout streaming videos
best beginner Pilates reformer machine

Stamina AeroPilates 701 Premier Reformer

AeroPilates 701 Premier Reformer
Now 17% Off
Credit: Walmart

Pros

  • Comes with stand and neck pillow
  • Great price

Cons

  • May not be best for more advanced Pilates practitioners

Not looking to spend a lot but still want a great machine? Then this bb is for you. It's light, compact, yet impressively sturdy, and it even comes with a stand and its own rebounder for low-impact cardio. What more could you want??

THE REVIEW: "I LOVE it! It's a great for me to start with instead of those for thousands of dollars," writes a reviewer. "It's compact & sleek enough for me to keep it on its stand in my living room. It wasn't too difficult to put it together with a You Tube video. It slides very smoothly...I'm very happy with this purchase."

Length86.25"
Width 24"
Height14"
Weight109 lbs
ExtrasAeroPilates Stand gives the reformer a 10" lift
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best budget Pilates reformer machine

Stamina AeroPilates Reformer Plus 379

AeroPilates Reformer Plus 379
Credit: Amazon

Pros

  • Great price
  • Comes with neck pillow
  • Fairly easy assembly

Cons

  • May not be as smooth as other machines since it's spring-less

Another more affordable reformer that'll still get ya lean and mean: this cute lil purple contraption. While spring-less, this simple machine still offers four-cord resistance with multiple intensities, as well as a rebounder for cardio, and when you're done with it, you can easily fold it up and tuck it away.

THE REVIEW: "I love this reformer,” writes a reviewer. “Assembled easily. Very sturdy. The videos are a great teaching tool… I can teach myself and take my time to learn how to breathe through exercises and perfect proper Pilates form.”

Length86"
Width21"
Height26"
Weight68"
ExtrasTwo Pilates reformer workout DVDs and videos on demand
Best Pilates Reformer with Accessories

Merrithew At Home SPX Reformer Bundle

On Sale
At Home SPX Reformer Bundle

Pros

  • Delivery option comes with the machine mostly assembled
  • Reviewers attest that it's super sturdy

Cons

  • Back piece may be too short for taller people
  • Machine is too heavy to move alone

Merrithew is another trusted brand in reformers, and this machine comes with the works, including a reformer box, which is an essential accessory for anyone with tight hip flexors. It also features a metal roll-up pole, so the possibilities are pretty much endless with this bad boy.

THE REVIEW: "I work out on this reformer at the Pilates studio I go to. I wanted a reformer for my home and there was no doubt this was the one I wanted," one reviewer writes. "Please Note: The box this ships in is HUGE and it weighs A LOT. You cannot move this alone. You will need help! ... If you want a reformer—BUY THIS ONE!"

Length95.31"
Width20"
Height10.86"
Weight115 lbs
ExtrasReformer box, metal roll-up pole, and two workout DVDs
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the best reformer substitute

COREFIRST Resistance Pilates System

Resistance Pilates System
Credit: Amazon

Pros

  • Small equipment is easy to put away when you're finished with a workout
  • Versatile enough to take anywhere
  • A slightly smaller investment might put newcomers at ease

Cons

  • This allows for similar movements, but there's no replacing an actual reformer
  • Some users complained the resistance wasn't hard enough

Branded as a “portable reformer,” this nifty kit from Corefirst has everything you need to take your reformer routine on the go. The system includes two Corefirst wraps, six resistance band sets (two light, two medium, and two heavy resistance), carabiners, a 2-in-one door and short anchor, a carry bag, two double-sided floor sliders, and access to the Corefirst Basic App, which has over a dozen 40-minute Pilates workouts. Just anchor the system, grab a yoga mat, and you’re good to go!

THE REVIEW: "This is the PERFECT way to start in Pilates,” writes one tester. “It’s small, easily stored, convenient, affordable, and there is great support with the website and app.”

Weight36 lbs total
ExtrasCorefit Resistance Pilates App
the best equipment refresher

ASUTRA Natural & Organic Yoga Mat Cleaner

Natural & Organic Yoga Mat Cleaner
Credit: Asutra/Amazon

Pros

  • Lavender smell keeps you feeling fresh throughout your workout

Cons

  • Essential oil formula won't be suitable for all pilates machines, so use carefully

Keep your equipment fresh with this organic yoga mat cleaner. It's safe to use on most pilates equipment and will add a calming scent to your workout. Just remember to read the directions, as this does contain essential oils.

THE REVIEW: "I've tried other mat cleaners and none of them have cleaned and freshened up my mat like this product," one tester writes. "Left my mat smelling like new!"

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Is it worth buying a Pilates reformer?

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Why should you get an at-home Pilates machine?

Even if you get the least expensive Pilates reformer on the market, it's still going to make a dent in your wallet, so it's important to think through whether or not a Pilates reformer is worth it for you. "Having a reformer machine at home can be helpful because it will provide you with more access to being fit and focusing on your body and your health," Andersen tells Cosmopolitan, adding that it's especially worth it for people who might live far away from a Pilates studio or access to in person classes. That said, she recommends guidance from a professional Pilates instructor before going all-in on a home reformer. "You can use a reformer at home, but if you're not focusing on your form and alignment, you could actually be harming your body instead of improving it."

Is it worth buying a Pilates reformer as a beginner?

Lucky for you Pilates newbies out there, reformers are a one-size fits all levels kind of equipment. "One of the great things about the reformer is that it's very assistive, in addition to providing resistance, so the same reformer is great for both a beginner and an advanced student," Andersen says. However, she strongly recommends supplementing any at-home Pilates exercise with time in-studio, especially for beginners. "Even with digital classes and an at-home reformer, you're still going to need regular practice with an instructor," she cautions, noting that feedback on form is critical to ensuring a reformer is being used safely.

How to choose the best Pilates reformer

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Think through the spacing

"When looking for a reformer, you want to think of how much space you have to keep one, as well as the sturdiness of the materials," explains Obi. "You want to be able to have at least two feet of space on either side to stretch your arms and legs, and you also want to make sure your head won’t hit the ceiling for standing exercises." Koylass adds, "I always tell clients to check the dimension and weight requirements to ensure it matches their personal needs."

Consider a hybrid vs. classical machine

Next, decide if you want a classical machine or a hybrid machine. "Classical Pilates reformers are made to focus on more lengthening, toning, and stabilizing of all the joints and muscles fibers in the entire body," Bowman-Jackson says. Hybrid Pilates reformers do all that plus add an extra cardio and strength challenge with heavier springs. The hybrid machines may have more features built in (like a tower or other machine you might see in a studio), she adds. Either option is awesome, so it depends on which elements of a studio class you wanna bring to your living room!

Don't forget about moving and storing it

Working with a studio or a one bedroom sitch? "Make sure your machine is easy to store, compressing pretty flat to go under your bed or pushed up into a closet," Bowman-Jackson says. Of course it's ideal for you to be able to move it out of its hiding spot...she suggests looking for a reformer with wheels on one side to take it out and put it away easily too.

Headshot of Olivia Truffaut-Wong

Olivia Truffaut-Wong is an editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers beauty, entertainment, and lifestyle. She loves finding and testing the best skincare products to recommend, like the best tinted sunscreens, and is always researching the best cat accessories for her fur baby. She has over 10 years of experience as an entertainment and culture writer and editor, and her work has been featured in The Cut, Refinery29, Teen Vogue, Polygon, Bustle, and more.  

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Kara Cuzzone
Contributor

Kara Cuzzone is a New York City-based writer, editor, and artist. She has over seven years of experience covering health, wellness, and shopping-related topics for sites including Forbes, Cosmopolitan, Byrdie, Wondermind, and PureWow.

Headshot of Corinne Sullivan

Corinne Sullivan is an Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers a variety of beats, including lifestyle, entertainment, relationships, shopping, and more. She can tell you everything you need to know about the love lives of A-listers, the coziest bedsheets, and the sex toys actually worth your $$$. She is also the author of the 2018 novel Indecent. Follow her on Instagram for cute pics of her pup and bébé. 

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