Pilates is a form of resistance training that is renowned for promoting a more balanced body, core strength, coordination, body composition, and general wellbeing. Traditional pilates is performed solely on a mat, however, there are pieces of special pilates equipment that can provide further challenge and variation to each workout.
One particular machine is known as the reformer. The reformer has a bed-like frame with a platform on top which is known as the carriage. This carriage rolls backward and forwards on a set of wheels and is attached to the frame using springs.
This article will begin by reviewing a number of the best pilates reformer machines available in Australia before providing a buyer’s guide and discussing the many benefits associated with home reformer workouts.
1. AeroPilates Plus 379 Pilates Reformer (Top Pick)
When it comes to comfort, there are few pilates reformers that compare to the AeroPilates Plus 379.
The padding used on the carriage is a high-density foam which ensures that users are not only comfortable but are able to maintain good body alignment throughout the workout.
Furthermore, it also comes with a head and neck pillow and includes a large, rounded cardio rebounder and is foldable to allow easy storage.
The machine comes with four cords which allow for a variety of different resistances to be applied, therefore catering to a wide variety of fitness levels.
Each purchase comes with a workout DVD that contains four different workouts – basic, primer, strength, and stamina.
What We Like:
- Comfortable
- Foldable
- Four Cord Resistance System
- Workout DVD
What We Don’t Like:
- Small Dimensions
2. Merrithew at Home SPX Pilates Reformer
The Merrithew Pilates Reformer is a high-quality piece of fitness equipment that can help to take your fitness to the next level.
The reformer comes with three headrest positions and four foot bar positions to facilitate comfort and ease of use. In addition, it also comes with comfortable shoulder pads and double-loop foot and hand straps.
This reformer uses a spring and gearbar system which allows you to quickly and easily adjust the resistance to suit. Only high-quality components have been used in this system and therefore they are able to withstand rigorous use.
Further resistance can be added by adjusting the rope system which is can be done by turning the star knobs.
What We Like:
- High-Quality
- Comfortable
- Durable Spring System
- Ease of Use
What We Don’t Like:
- Max Weight Capacity
3. Studio Pro Pilates Reformer
The Studio Pro Pilates Reformer is a studio quality piece of pilates equipment. It is constructed primarily with German Beech Wood which has a beautiful, smooth finish and comes with a lifetime warranty.
This reformer uses a one-piece rail design to facilitate a smooth, comfortable, and continuous motion while also providing the frame with excellent durability and stability.
It also comes with a two-position headrest and four-position padded foot bar to provide support and comfort regardless of height or body proportions.
With this purchase you also receive a cardio rebounder, long box, and adjustable foot straps which give you the opportunity to vary your workouts further.
What We Like:
- Aesthetics
- Frame Lifetime Warranty
- Smooth Action
- Workout Options
What We Don’t Like:
- Expensive
4. AeroPilates 287 Pilates Reformer
For those who are on a restricted budget, the AeroPilates reformer machine is one of the best options for home use.
Although the price is relatively low for a pilate machine, it is still extremely well-made and highly durable. This is exemplified by the fact that the machine is a weight capacity of 300 pounds.
This reformer is also a great choice for pilates beginners as it is very simple in design and function and easy to use.
Some reformer machines can be complicated to adjust and use. However, this is not an issue with this model as the only adjustments required are to the three cords and the headrest.
Another great feature of this reformer is the fact that it can also be folded and has also been fitted with wheels for easy transport and storage.
What We Like:
- Cost-Effective
- Heavy-Duty and Durable
- Ease of Use
- Transport and Storage
What We Don’t Like:
- Narrow Carriage
5. Pioneer Pilates Reformer
The Pioneer Pilates Reformer machine is one of the best machines on the market. It has been carefully engineered to ensure that it is comfortable, durable, and effective.
It has been fitted with an eight-wheel carriage system that delivers a quiet and smooth motion. It has also been equipped with a number of adjustable parts which provides the user with many exercise options.
The headrest has two positions while the foot bar has nine to choose from. Additionally, the double-loop straps provide three different grip configurations (hand, foot, and sandal).
Finally, a wider padded platform can also be fitted to the existing smaller platform to provide more stability when performing standing exercises.
What We Like:
- Excellent Design
- Smooth Motion
- Workout Options
- Wider Platform Insert
What We Don’t Like:
- Expensive
Pilates Reformer Buyer’s Guide
When it comes to purchasing a pilates reformer for your home, it’s vital that you choose the machine that is most suitable for the space you have available and for the workouts you wish to perform.
Machine Size
As mentioned, it is imperative that the reformer you select is the best fit for your home and your physical dimensions. For example, if you are a tall individual, purchasing a shorter reformer may not be advisable. Similarly, if you are short on space, selecting a larger reformer machine is not recommended.
With a vast array of machines to choose from, ensure that you check the dimensions of each reformer to find the machine that is the best fit.
Another important consideration is the width of the carriage itself. While most pilates machines will have a relatively wide carriage, some may use narrower dimensions which may or may not be suitable for you, depending on your physical characteristics.
Build Quality
When it comes to buying any piece of fitness equipment, build quality is important. While you may save some money by purchasing a cheaper model, you may sacrifice on quality. Alternatively, you could opt to spend more money on a better quality machine that may have greater longevity and durability.
You can often tell the best quality reformers based on the maximum weight capacity of the machine with the top reformers exceeding the 300-pound (135kg) mark.
Some key components to look out for included braided ropes, ionized springs, and EVA foam.
Finally, a number of the best pilates reformers come with warranties for the frame and components, therefore, when selecting a reformer, check for warranty coverage.
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Comfort
Comfort is an important property of any piece of home fitness kit. Considering that you will spend a lot of time lying, sitting, and standing on the carriage, it’s important to check the material used and it’s size.
Ideally, the carriage should be well-padded and you should be able to comfortably fit onto it. The majority of reformer machines have adjustable headrests, foot bars, and straps which will help to enhance comfort as well as provide an array of options in terms of exercise. Therefore, it is worthwhile assessing these components to ensure that they can be easily adjusted and promote comfort.
Versatility
All of the best pilates reformer machines should come with adjustable resistance – these tend to come in the form of springs, gearbars, and ropes. This will allow you to find the correct intensity for your current level of strength and fitness.
As mentioned, it should be possible to adjust many components of the reformer to accommodate for specific exercises. Check to see how many adjustable positions the reformer allows for.
Lastly, check the straps, ropes, and other features of the reformer to see whether or not they can be adjusted to suit your physical dimensions. Also check to see how many levels of resistance the pilates machine has, as having a larger range of resistance levels to choose from will be highly beneficial for your training.
Design and Features
While reformer designs tend to share similar characteristics, be aware that there may be subtle differences between models. The primary differences will be found in terms of machine operation, therefore, it is worthwhile assessing how to adjust the reformer and many of its features prior to purchasing.
Some reformers come with additional features such as rebounder, reformer box, and home workouts DVD’s that can all help to bring an extra dimension to your workouts.
The Benefits Of Using A Pilates Reformer
This section will discuss five great benefits associated with home pilates with reformers workouts.
Develops A Strong Core and Balanced Body
Pilates is well-renowned for building a strong core. Many of the workouts performed on a pilates reformer involving rolling, twisting, and curling to target many deep muscles in the core. Furthermore, pilates reformers use springs and pulley systems to add extra resistance and place additional stress on the muscles.
As a result of these workouts strength increases, asymmetries and imbalances reduce which leads to a more balanced body. Becoming more balanced can have an array of benefits including enhanced movement and reduced risk of injury.
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Better Balance and Coordination
Leading on directly from the previous point, working out on the pilates reformer can also enhance balance and coordination. Many of the exercises demand a great degree of control and, therefore, regular practice can lead to the development of balance and coordination.
Improvements in core strength can also have an influence on overall stability, balance, and control. Enhancing these abilities will not only reduce the risk of injury but may also improve many day-to-day activities.
Enhanced Mobility
The majority of pilates reformer exercises utilize a full range of motion or ROM. ROM is simply the amount of movement available around a particular joint or joints.
Therefore, by regularly performing these exercises, it is possible to substantially enhance full-body mobility. This is particularly significant from an injury prevention standpoint, as having good mobility may reduce the risk of sustaining an injury.
In addition, a greater level of mobility will improve your general movement.
Improves Body Composition
Partaking in home pilates workouts can also improve body composition, particularly in relation to muscle tone. When the muscles are exposed to stress, they adapt and become stronger and more defined.
Consequently, regular pilates workouts can provide the muscles with the adequate stress that they require in order to adapt. Furthermore, reformer pilates workouts can be used to facilitate fat loss.
While nutrition has a large influence on body compositional changes, intense exercises will burn a large number of calories and can consequently contribute towards fat loss.
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Quick And Sustainable Results
Finally, by performing regular home pilates training, it is possible to experience a number of the above benefits in a short period of time. Often fast, short-term changes it can be challenging to sustain, however, providing that you gradually increase the challenge of each workout over time, this should not be an issue.
The pilates reformer has the advantage over traditional pilates in that the reformer machine applies additional resistance thus enhancing the rate of change.
