The Best Pilates Reformer to Have in Your Home Gym!

Looking to add a Pilates Reformer for the home gym? Want to be consistent with your workouts without having to go to class? Purchasing a Reformer can be the best decision you can make. Not only is it the best CROSS TRAINER but it is the best work out!

Unfortunately, skimping on a cheap Reformer will ultimately end up in regrets. After many years of teaching and working on different machines, these Reformers have proven to be the best.

Let me be clear, I do like and have purchased other Reformers in the past, but when it comes to being the most versatile, Balanced Body is my top choice.

Why Balance Body?

There are a ton of other beautiful and amazing companies that make Reformers but Balance Body is the most versatile when it comes to fit your specific needs. This article is intended to help you make a decision based on space you may have in the home, a particular look you may be going for and specific structural needs like height.

1) The Allegro 2 Reformer 

This Pilates Reformer is one of the newer models when it comes to design. There are two main factors that make this Reformer a perfect choice for the home gym.

1) A beautiful sleek look that matches most homes and doesn’t feel industrial.

2) A foot bar that moves along the frame. This feature alone is my primary love for this machine allowing for exercises that are not possible on other Reformers.

3) Soft padding and smooth rails make for a comfortable workout especially if you have injuries you are working through.

Another plus to The Allegro 2 is that if you want to add the tower unit at some time in the future, it’s easy to order and instal. This Reformer also has a choice of being lifted or close to the floor. Again, determining your space in the room and height of the body using the machine.

The Allegro Reformer 

This Reformer has made its way into many studios. Balance Body designed it in a way that makes it easy to use and has a solid construction. I like this model because of the adjustability components. This Reformer can be adjusted for all individuals based on height and hold them comfortably. ( Small or Tall)That is not as common in the traditional Reformers. For example, you would have to purchase another size up if you were a tall person on the Gratz Reformers as well as the Stott Reformers.

This Reformer has many features.

1) It can be closer to the ground, or purchase leg lifts for height. ( I personally do not like Reformers to be close to the ground.) If you want to know more about that you can read My Top 3 Must Haves When Purchasing a Reformer.

2) It fits great in a gym with other equipment because of its sleek metal frame. Sure to match other commercial equipment, it is also comfortable with enough padding to support the joints. Bonus!

3) The foot bar locks in the position, making it easier for someone practising at home alleviating safety issues. It also has the ability to be adjusted for taller individuals.

The Allegro is very popular for home studios that have other equipment and both male and female are using the machine. You have the option to add the tower unit on this model as well.

Studio Reformer

This Reformer has the traditional wood frame. Ideal for the Classically trained student. It has a classic look and is the most similar to what Joe Pilates designed. If not the same! (His design also included the wood handles and leather straps!)  Not all brands still use the leather straps and wood handles. I was originally trained on a Classic Reformer and love that aspect. I suggest this Reformer if you are trained classically due to the flow aspect of the workout. If transitions are important to you and your workout then this is your baby! I do miss that!

This is also a good choice if your home studio has a spa-like feel as well. With this Reformer, you can choose the colour you want the Mat to be. I have seen white, black, and red, but they have options of 9 different colours. So that is a nice option. Take note tho, that if you are not familiar with this piece, the foot bar does not lock in place enabling transitions. Therefore, you need to know about the safety concerns before you start practising.

Quick Recap…

If you are looking for a modern design with more functionality the Allegro 2 is a perfect fit. When it comes to height adjustments looking streamless with other equipment the Allegro is your choice. Finally, if you are a more seasoned Pilates enthusiast you may be happier with the traditional studio Reformer. No matter what one you decide, all of these are sturdy and reliable and keep their value. If you ever have to re-sell it. Reformers keep their value better than cars. It’s amazing.

I hope I answered your questions and helped you make an informed decision. You will be so happy you invested in yourself.

Happy Shopping,

Stephanie

P.S. If you end up purchasing a Reformer, check out Pilates anytime for quick workouts on your new machine.