Have you decided to invest in a Pilates reformer machine?

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Or

Are you still on the fence?

Regardless of where you stand on your decision-making process, this guide is a must-read for people looking to give Pilates a try. When you start your initial research online, your Google search will land you a massive array of varying reformer machines and brands. But where do you even start?

Considerations for Buying a 

Pilates Reformer Machine

Investing in a Pilates reformer machine needs user-specific research. You should look for various things while choosing reformer machines, as these are relatively expensive, so you must ensure that your purchase is worth the while. For this post, we will break down the steps to choose a reformer machine &#; first off: 

Identify your Needs

The first step in choosing a Pilates reformer machine is identifying your needs. Let us explain, if you happen to be an aspiring Pilates instructor, then you will need a studio-grade reformer that comes with different adjustments and is adjustable. Furthermore, if you have health concerns, underlying issues, or motion limitations, you might also need an adjustable reformer.

What's more, having more attachments and accessories will make workouts engaging and robust for advance level practitioners. Besides, if you are a less experienced practitioner or on a tight budget, you might not even need all the accessories.

Prioritizing Adjustable Features

Having an adjustable reformer is essential, as mentioned in the previous step. This rings more true, especially when you are an aspiring practitioner or have a limitation of motion. Below are some components which need to be adjustable in a Pilates reformer machine:

• Foot bar

• Headrest

• Shoulder Rests

Shoulder and Head Rest

The shoulder and headrests have a meaningful application of supporting your back, shoulders, and neck. Both must offer maximum stability to your body and be highly comfortable. People with neck and back injuries benefit greatly from adjustable shoulder and headrests.

Foot Bars

The foot bars facilitate spring resistance at the beginning of every exercise. The more adjustability your foot bar offers, the more adjustable it will be to varying body sizes and varying ranges of motion. If your body is inflexible, or if you have had knee injuries/surgery, an adjustable foot bar offers you the correct angle and support.

Decide on a Budget

After locking in your requirements, you must now identify the budget parameters. It is where you decide how much you are willing to spend on a Pilates reformer machine. The average reformer can go anywhere between $400 to $ (for higher-end models). We understand this is a relatively wide range; however, it is worth noting that the higher the price point goes, the higher your machine's quality will be. Plus, you will be getting more accessories as the price range increases. Once again, your set of requirements will drive your decision here too.

Capitalizing your Space

Before getting your heart set on a particular machine, you must consider space availability in your studio/house/apartment. Most reformer machines range from 80 to 100 inches long and 20-30 inches wide. It is essential to measure your space beforehand. There are some options for Pilates reformer machines that are foldable. These might be a good option if you need more space or want to use your available space for other activities.

Quality of Frame

A sturdy and quality frame for a Pilates reformer machine is a must. For reformer machines, some frames are made from wood, while others are metal. Therefore it is important to do your research before choosing your machine. A less expensive reformer might seem tempting with tons of accessory options &#; however, if its frame is not good, you won't be able to use your machine for a long time. Check for reviews and ensure others had no issues with your selected model beforehand.

Opt for a Suitable Resistance System

Some reformer machines use cords for their resistance systems; however, finding a machine with springs is advisable. This is because the springs are more robust and indicate a high-quality reformer. As a buyer, you must also check how heavy the springs are and how many of these come with a reformer. Most machines come with 4 to 5 springs with different degrees of difficulty.

As aspiring instructors, one should consider a machine with more springs, as it facilitates adjustment to varying skill levels and body types. Additionally, if you or your clients suffer from injuries, it will be difficult to go as heavy; thus, getting a machine with more springs will offer you an amplified workout session.

In addition, if your springs are not super heavy, then stronger and heavier people won't be able to squeeze a better workout owing to the maxed-out springs. Ideally, the more springs your Pilates machine has, the better it will be for a workout. However, if a machine meeting your budget only has a few springs, ensure those offer the right resistance level.

Final Verdict

The choice of a suitable Pilates reformer machine depends on your requirements, budget, and space availability. Therefore, it is important to take all considerations above deeply before taking a plunge. Remember, reformer machines are not cheap, so you must go for a machine that is usable in the longer run.

The Pilates Reformer is one of the most popular and effective fitness machines available today, found in Pilates studios, gyms, franchise facilities, golf clubs, hotels, and even home gyms. It is widely used by elite athletes, leisure fitness enthusiasts, office workers, prenatal and postnatal women, celebrities, and those undergoing rehabilitation.

This highly sought-after device leverages spring resistance to provide safe, versatile, and low-impact full-body workouts, making it suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels. Users can improve strength, flexibility, balance, coordination, posture, muscle tone, and range of motion, as well as enhance functional movement.

While most Pilates Reformers share core features, there are numerous upgrades and customizations to choose from, meaning no two Reformers are exactly alike. This flexibility allows users to select the best model for their specific needs and fitness goals.

In our Pilates Reformer Buying Guide, we'll give you everything you need to know to find, select and buy the best pilates reformer based on your needs, fitness goals or studio space.

We share the information you need to know about buying pilates reformer:

1. What is Pilates?

2. What is a Pilates Reformer?

3. Benefits of Pilates Reformer: Why are they so effective?

4. Four questions to ask yourself before buying a pilates reformer?

5. Pilates Reformer features

6. Pilates Reformer Buying Tips:

7. Top Pilates Reformer Manufacturers

1. What is Pilates?

Pilates takes its name from Joseph Pilates. A German-born immigrant to Britain and the United States, he devised pilates as a new method of exercise and body conditioning in the early decades of the last century. His method involves using what he calls devices. Perhaps the most famous device is the Pilates Reformer.

While many pilates exercises are done on MATS and may require the addition of a Pilates ball, resistance band and/or "magic ring" (a circular device you squeeze) and work well, Pilates reformers have added hundreds of new exercises to the menu -- which will be fun. In Chopra's own words, "Of course you can exercise without a machine. But it's less efficient and takes longer. Three or four hours a week is enough for them."

Pilates Reformer is a low-impact exercise regimen that targets the core or "power" muscles of the abdomen, hips and lower back. These exercises are designed to improve flexibility, coordination, strength, and balance.

While athletes use Pilates for cross-training, improving performance and recovering from injuries, there are many benefits to daily life as one result of pilates is better posture and body alignment. Pilates reformers are also used in physical therapy and rehabilitation to overcome injuries or physical limitations. Many people do Pilates to relieve back and joint pain.

2. What is a Pilates Reformer?

With competitive price and timely delivery, gymfrog sincerely hope to be your supplier and partner.

Anyone who has walked into a Pilates studio has probably seen these machines that look a bit like medieval torture devices. But because of their versatility and ease of use, these devices have become a popular and versatile fitness devices.

With a reformer, you are fighting your weight. There are many unique exercises you can do on the reformer - standing, sitting, lying down, even standing on your head if you dare and know what you're doing. It's a one-stop-shop for full-body workouts, and workouts can become more difficult as you progress, so you'll never get ahead of the reformers.

Another benefit is that you may see results faster than using a mat course alone. With instruction and some exercise modifications, you can also use these machines if you have a physical disability.

3. Benefits of Pilates Reformer: Why are they so effective?

Pilates reformers offer users a number of benefits, including an effective low-impact full-body workout using spring resistance. Depending on the user's needs, fitness level, abilities, and goals, any innovator workout can be performed, reverted, or modified.

Reformer's spring system offers hundreds of workout options for a wide range of users, including rehabilitation patients, athletes, pregnant women, people with disabilities, and people with limited mobility. Spring resistance can be modified according to the user's individual requirements to add challenges or provide support.

On the machine, users can exercise in comfortable positions, including supine, prone, side, standing, kneeling, and sitting.

If a vertical frame (sometimes called a tower) is added to a traditional reformer, the resistance angle can be adjusted to target individual muscles and muscle groups. These options add functional programming options for rehabilitation patients, everyday users, and athletes.

Compared to traditional weight training, which requires a greater power output to begin gravity-defying movements (think bicep curls), resistance starts at a lower level when using springs and gradually increases throughout the range of motion. This means that maximum resistance is achieved at the end of the range of motion, resulting in tension throughout the range of the joint. As you reduce the support and stability provided by the springs, some exercises on the pilates reformer actually become more challenging.

4. Four questions to ask yourself before buying a pilates reformer?

A. How will you use the body shaping machine?

Would you use Reformer for group lessons, private one-on-one, family use, healthcare, or rehabilitation? Knowing your customer base (or your own needs) will help you choose the best Pilates reformer, whether it's a professional machine with more accessories and programming options for different customers, or a leaner and more competitively priced machine for individual homes.

B. Who will use the pilates reformer?

Professional athlete, senior citizen, convalescent, or yourself? Depending on the answer, this may change the body shaper you buy. For example, the elderly and convalescent may need an elevated body shaper frame so they don't have to bend over to get on the equipment. If athletes are taller or larger than the average person, they may need a longer carriage bed. Home users may want something versatile but compact for their home gym space.

C. What kind of space do you have?

Pilates reformer can be used in many different environments and have special functions to adapt to different sizes of space. For example, if you have a multipurpose gym or fitness facility, you may want to consider a reformer with a stand or a body shaper that can be stacked and easily moved, and this feature is not important to studio owners or fitness professionals who designate space for the body shaper

D. What's your budget?

The price of pilates reformer can range from a few hundred dollars to more than $10,000. It all depends on their functionality, features, warranties, add-ons, and accessories. When purchasing a body-shaping machine, look for rugged components, high-quality craftsmanship and manufacturing, and a comprehensive warranty that will give you peace of mind. You want to make sure that the multifunctional pilates device you're investing in will last a lifetime.

5. Pilates Reformer features

Reformer frame: The reformer frame is like a bed with a bracket that rolls back and forth on wheels inside the frame, much like a rowing machine. The practitioner uses an adjustable foot bar at one end to push or pull the bracket. Frames can be beautiful golden wood or more industrial-looking durable steel and aluminum. Most importantly, look for strong, stable frames. You don't want a fragile model that tilts, squeaks, or wobbles. When shopping, consider the amount of space you have. These reformers take up quite a bit of space, although some can be lifted or folded up for storage when not in use.

Reformer straps: A pilates reformer has straps with bracelets and anklets that are pulled by the leg or arm to move the bracket. These should be adjustable so they can be customized to your body shape, fitness level, and any physical limitations.

Reformer springs: In the more expensive modern reformer, the springs can be adjusted to many different levels, making the car more difficult to push or pull when you gain power. Adjustable springs are also important for performing each movement with proper resistance. Look for quality springs. Lower-end models may use bungee cords instead of springs, which may not withstand wear and tear.

Other elements: High-quality modern retrofits also include adjustable headrest and shoulder straps. An adjustable footrest is a must.

Upgrade: For more kinds of exercises, you can look for reformers with towers. Some manufacturers offer towers as accessories that can be purchased separately and installed later. The tower usually includes its own set of fittings.

Reformer accessories: Some top reformers come in ready-to-use packaging with a Pilate box and springboard. The latter is the newest member of the reformers, and fun for aerobics. Other Pilates equipment includes Pilates chairs, ladder buckets, wall-mounted units, arcs, and spinal orthotics.

Warranty: Ensure that your investment is covered by a comprehensive manufacturer warranty.

6. Pilates Reformer Buying Tips:

Consider your size and physical abilities. Pilates reformers come in a variety of options, heights, and sizes, so check to see if they fit your body shape and workout goals.

You'll find reputable online sellers' prices almost always match the suggested retail price (manufacturer's recommended retail price). We recommend choosing the seller with the best customer service.

Before investing in the reformer, take some Pilates group classes at a qualified Pilates studio. The exercises are very specific and it is necessary to have a trained Pilates instructor guide you.

Take some private classes to learn these principles and help you hone your personal fitness goals.

Consider continuing classes at home with a private Pilates instructor.

7. Top Pilates Reformer manufacturers

Mass manufacturing and customization of commercial Pilates reformer is a relatively new field. After Joseph Pilates developed his method during World War I, he worked on his reformers and other devices from the s to the s.

GRATZ

As the first manufacturer of Pilates devices, it is recognized as a source of classic innovators in the industry. A collaboration with renowned Pilates student Romana Kryzanowska in the late s led to the retention of dimensions and proportions that were critical to the proper functioning of the Pilates apparatus. Gratz remained true to Joseph Pilates' original vision, making innovators through unerring craftsmanship and rigorous specifications. Because of this promise, the Gratz reformers may lack some modern features.

BALANCED BODY

Balanced Body has dramatically updated Joseph Pilates' equipment since the s by combining state-of-the-art engineering, materials and techniques with a modern understanding of the biomechanics of the human body. Founder and CEO Ken Endelman has made hundreds of improvements to pilates' original equipment, many of which have become industry standards. Pilates studios and franchises often use balancers.

BASI SYSTEMS

BASI Systems® manufactures pilates devices with biomechanical and aesthetic integrity using the highest quality environmentally friendly materials. Each piece is carefully hand-crafted using state-of-the-art engineering methods. Carefully crafted Pilates equipment uses beech wood for sturdiness, aero-grade aluminum for durability and smooth transitions, antibacterial vinyl to resist wear and tear, and orthopaedic cushions to provide exceptional comfort. Only exclusive BASI Systems® equipment with ergonomic features and an expandable design system that seamlessly meets your needs can extend service life.

Wavar

As a reputed brand in China, Wavar has already served in the global market of fitness equipment and yoga products for more than ten years. 300 plus diligent staff, professional customer service, R&D department to achieve the benchmark in the field and the proud engineering team for production and quality control. That&#;s our most trustworthy promise to provide our excellent service and products to customers.

ELINA PILATES

The Spanish manufacturer is gaining momentum in the North American market. Well-made reformer maple and aluminum frame reformer can both take their place in balanced body comparisons. Our favorite was the open-top Cadillac reformer, complete with trapeze, which cost more than any of its competitors.

For more information, please visit pilates wood reformer.