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Beginner's guide

So you're buying a Pilates reformer

A home reformer is the gym equipment most people never get rid of. The honest truth: there are four real choices in the $400–1,500 range, only two worth your money, and the fold-up vs. traditional question has a clearer answer than the marketing suggests. Here's exactly what to buy.

By Colin B. · Published May 23, 2026 · Last reviewed May 23, 2026
a woman is doing exercises on a pilates

Photo by Ahmet Kurt on Unsplash

The 60-second version

If you only buy 3 things to start:

  1. AeroPilates Premier Studio 700 — The fold-up reformer most home practitioners end up buying — real resistance, real storage.
  2. ToeSox Low Rise Full-Toe Grip Socks — ToeSox grip socks are required on a reformer carriage — slippery socks are a safety issue, not just a comfort one.
  3. Balanced Body Ultra-Fit Pilates Circle — A Pilates ring adds 15+ exercises to your routine for $25. The most underrated prop you'll buy.
Budget total
$450
Typical total
$800
A fold-up reformer runs $450–700. Add a mat, grippy socks, and a Pilates ring and you're fully set up for $500–800.
At a glance

Our top pick in each category

The fastest path through this guide — each best-starter pick by category. Scroll for the budget and upgrade alternatives.

CategoryTop pickPriceWhere to buy
ReformerAeroPilatesAeroPilates Premier Studio 700$$$ See on Amazon →
MatProsourceFitProsourceFit Original Yoga and Pilates Mat (6mm)$ See on Amazon →
Grippy SocksToeSoxToeSox Low Rise Full-Toe Grip Socks$$ See on Amazon →
PropsBalanced BodyBalanced Body Ultra-Fit Pilates Circle$$ See on Amazon →
ApparelCRZ YOGACRZ YOGA Butterluxe High Waist Workout Leggings$$ See on Amazon →
Before you buy anything

A few things worth knowing first

Take 6–10 studio classes before buying any machine. A reformer is expensive and takes real space — you want to be sure reformer work is something you'll sustain before committing. Most people who buy one without studio experience end up using it half as often as they planned.

The fold-up vs. traditional question matters more than the brand. Fold-up reformers use cord-based resistance and store upright. Traditional fixed reformers use actual steel springs and give you the same feel as a studio. If space is tight: fold-up. If you have a dedicated room and real commitment: traditional.

Measure your space before ordering. A standard reformer needs 8 feet long and 2 feet wide in use, plus clearance to move around it. Know your spot before the box arrives.

The gear

What you actually need

Reformer

Everything else on this page is supporting gear. The reformer is the decision. For home buyers the real choice is between fold-up (cord-based resistance, stores upright, $400–800) and traditional fixed (spring-based resistance, studio feel, $1,200–2,500). Fold-up is not inferior — it's a different tool, and for most people with limited space and beginner-to-intermediate needs, it's the right one. Traditional fixed is what the certification world trains on, and if you want to cross-train at studios without relearning your spring settings, that's your target.

Reformer — what's the difference?

A few common shapes, each making a different trade.

Fold-up (cord-based)

Stores upright, cord resistance. The space-saver and most common home buy.

Footprint (in use)
~8' × 2'
Storage
~22" upright
Resistance
Elastic cords

Best for Apartments, small spaces, beginners unsure how often they'll use it

Tradeoff Cord resistance differs from studio springs — becomes more noticeable as you advance

↓ See our pick
Traditional fixed (spring-based)

Permanent footprint, studio springs. Exactly what certified instructors use.

Footprint
~8' × 2' permanent
Storage
None — fixed
Resistance
Steel springs

Best for Committed practitioners with space, people cross-training at studios

Tradeoff Doesn't fold, heavy, costs 2–3× more than fold-up options

↓ See our pick
Best starter
AeroPilates

AeroPilates Premier Studio 700

$$$

The AeroPilates Premier Studio 700 is the fold-up reformer most people who genuinely commit to home Pilates end up buying. Four resistance cords cover the beginner-to-intermediate range, the carriage is smooth, and it folds upright to about 22 inches wide when stored — genuinely apartment-friendly. Assembly takes 30 minutes.

What we like

  • Folds upright to 22" footprint — fits in apartments with no dedicated room
  • 4 resistance cords cover beginner to low-intermediate range
  • Ships directly, assembles in ~30 min with included tools

What to know

  • Cord resistance is different from studio springs — noticeable once you advance
  • Lighter build than professional reformers — max user weight 300 lbs
See on Amazon →
Budget pick
AeroPilates

Stamina AeroPilates Pro XP 557

$$

Three resistance cords instead of four, slightly lighter frame, but the same fold-up carriage system and the same footprint as the 717. If you're genuinely uncertain whether a home reformer will stick, this is a lower-cost way to find out. Expect to outgrow the resistance range within 18 months of consistent use.

What we like

  • Significantly cheaper than the 717 with the same carriage mechanism
  • Folds upright — identical storage profile to the flagship model

What to know

  • 3 cords instead of 4 — you'll run out of challenge within 12–18 months
  • Lighter frame deflects slightly more during dynamic leg-press movements
See on Amazon →
Upgrade pick
Merrithew

Merrithew At Home SPX Reformer

$$$$

The SPX is the professional reformer used in certified Pilates studios, sized for home use. Five real steel springs, true studio feel, built to last decades. It doesn't fold — plan on a permanent 8-foot footprint — but if you're serious about Pilates as a practice rather than a purchase, this is the right long-term investment. Worth it once you're practicing four or more times per week.

What we like

  • True steel springs — identical feel to what certified instructors teach on
  • Studio-grade build lasts decades; replacement parts widely available
  • 5 springs give wider resistance range than any cord-based home reformer

What to know

  • 8-foot permanent footprint — doesn't fold, doesn't move easily
  • $1,800+ price point — only makes sense once you're truly committed
See on Amazon →

Mat

Your reformer handles most of the work, but you'll spend real time on the floor — warm-up, cool-down, and the classical mat Pilates sequences that complement reformer work. A yoga mat is too thin here; the spine-rolling and rolling-like-a-ball exercises are genuinely hard on a 3mm surface. Get something 6mm or thicker. Wider is better too — a standard 24" yoga mat pinches in lateral leg exercises.

Best starter
ProsourceFit

ProsourceFit Original Yoga and Pilates Mat (6mm)

$

Designed explicitly for both yoga and Pilates. At 6mm it's thick enough for spine-rolling sequences that punish thinner mats, the non-slip texture holds on hardwood, and it's wider than standard yoga mats at 24 inches. Under $40 and handles everything a beginner needs — you're not spending your budget on the mat.

What we like

  • 6mm thickness protects the spine in rolling exercises — 3mm mats don't cut it
  • Non-slip texture holds on hardwood and tile floors
  • Under $40 — proportionate spend for what's a supporting purchase

What to know

  • Not as grippy when sweaty as natural rubber mats
  • Rolls slightly bulky — not the most portable mat for class
See on Amazon →
Upgrade pick
Manduka

Manduka PRO Yoga and Pilates Mat (6mm)

$$$

The Manduka PRO is the professional standard used in studios and explicitly designed for Pilates as well as yoga. Dense 6mm foam provides real cushion without the squishy instability of thicker mats, and the closed-cell surface resists sweat absorption — easy to clean, lasts for years. A long-term investment that outlasts your reformer.

What we like

  • Closed-cell surface resists sweat absorption — easy to clean, lasts years
  • Dense 6mm foam cushions without the instability of extra-thick mats

What to know

  • 7.5 lbs and slow to unroll flat — not a mat you carry to class
  • Break-in period: slippery the first 5–10 sessions until surface opens up
See on Amazon →

Grippy Socks

Grippy toe socks are not optional on a reformer. The carriage platform is a smooth, slightly slick surface — regular socks slide on it. Pilates-specific grip socks have rubber nubs on the sole and open toes so your feet can feel and spread, which directly affects how you engage the footbar. You'll see every person in a Pilates studio wearing these. Buy before your first session, not after.

Best starter
ToeSox

ToeSox Low Rise Full-Toe Grip Socks

$$

ToeSox are the brand you'll see most often in professional Pilates studios — instructors recommend them by name. Full-toe design means each toe is individually sleeved, which sounds fussy until you use them and notice the improved foot engagement. The grip pattern holds on reformer carriage and mat alike. Buy a 3-pack so you always have a clean pair.

What we like

  • Individually sleeved toes improve foot engagement — genuinely noticeable
  • The brand instructors recommend — you'll see these in every studio
  • Rubber grip holds on reformer carriage and exercise mat

What to know

  • Individual toe sleeves feel strange until you adjust — takes 2–3 sessions
  • Runs slightly small — size up if between sizes
See on Amazon →
Budget pick
Tavi Noir

Tavi Noir Maddie Grip Socks

$

The closest budget competitor to ToeSox — full grip coverage, well-made, and usually $5–8 cheaper per pair. Standard (non-individual-toe) design means they fit like a regular sock with grip on the sole. The right pick if you want to try grippy socks before committing to the ToeSox style.

What we like

  • Full-sole grip at a lower per-pair price than ToeSox
  • Standard sock design — no toe-sleeve adjustment period

What to know

  • Non-individual-toe gives slightly less foot awareness on the carriage
  • Grip nubs wear out sooner than ToeSox under heavy use
See on Amazon →

Props

A Pilates ring and a small inflatable ball each add a legitimate range of exercises you can't replicate on the reformer alone — and both cost under $30. The ring (sometimes called a magic circle) provides resistance for inner-thigh, arm, and core work. The small ball goes between your knees for spine articulation and abdominal activation. You don't need either for your first session, but you'll want both within the first month.

Best starter
Balanced Body

Balanced Body Ultra-Fit Pilates Circle

$$

Balanced Body makes the professional equipment used in certified studios, and their ring is what instructors hand you in a one-on-one session. Correct resistance for all beginners and most intermediates, dual pads (inner and outer) for both grip positions, and fiberglass construction that maintains its spring for years. Generic rings lose resistance within months — this one doesn't.

What we like

  • Studio-grade fiberglass — no rubber fatigue, holds its spring for years
  • Dual pads cover all grip positions (inside squeeze and outside press)
  • From the same brand that builds professional reformers

What to know

  • Costs more than generic rings — but those lose resistance within months
  • One resistance level — advanced practitioners will want more eventually
See on Amazon →
Specialty pick
SISSEL

SISSEL Pilates Soft Ball (22cm)

$

The small inflatable ball is a Pilates staple used in mat, barre, and reformer classes alike. Squeeze it between your knees in Hundreds to activate inner thighs; put it under your sacrum in bridge variations to add proprioceptive challenge. SISSEL's 22cm ball is the right size and firmness (partially deflated for give) and holds air reliably where cheaper balls don't.

What we like

  • 10" is the right size for knee-squeeze and sacrum-support work
  • Holds air reliably — no mid-session deflation like cheaper balls

What to know

  • Needs a pump to re-inflate periodically — not included
  • More limited use case than the ring as your sole prop
See on Amazon →

Apparel

Pilates has one functional clothing rule: your instructor — or your own eye in the mirror — needs to see your spine and hip alignment. Flowy tops that puddle in Teaser or Spine Stretch hide your form from both of you. Form-fitting is the standard. Everything else is personal preference. You probably already own something that works; don't spend money here before your second session.

Best starter
CRZ YOGA

CRZ YOGA Butterluxe High Waist Workout Leggings

$$

Pilates is a form-first discipline — you need to see and feel your body's alignment, especially in hip hinges and spine articulation. CRZ YOGA's Butterluxe fabric moves without adding bulk, stays opaque through deep squats, and doesn't slide down during long holds. Closest thing to Lululemon Aligns at a third of the price, with 25" and 28" inseam options.

What we like

  • Form-fitting without compression — you can see your lines without restriction
  • Stays opaque through deep squats and inverted positions
  • Fraction of Lululemon price with comparable fabric feel

What to know

  • Sizing can run slightly small — check the size chart before ordering
  • Limited colorways compared to premium brands
See on Amazon →
Specialty pick
Alo Yoga

Alo Yoga Aspire Tank

$$$

A close-fitting tank top lets you and your instructor see your ribcage and lower back — which matters in Pilates in a way it doesn't in running or lifting. Alo's fitted tanks are form-fitting without being compressive and stay tucked in Hundred position. If you already own a fitted athletic top that doesn't bunch or ride up, use that instead and skip this.

What we like

  • Length stays visible in full hip-hinge and rolling positions
  • Ribbed fabric holds shape through repeated washing

What to know

  • Premium price for what is essentially a fitted athletic tank
  • Skip if you already own any non-baggy workout top
See on Amazon →
Going deeper

Your first month on a Pilates reformer

Most people buy a reformer and spend their first session figuring out what springs do. Here's the actual learning curve — what you'll be doing in week one versus week four, and what makes the difference between a reformer that becomes a practice and one that becomes a coat rack.

Read the guide →
Save your money

What you don't need yet

Beginners get pressured to buy a lot of stuff that doesn't help them play better. Here's what we'd skip on day one.

  • A jump board — Adds cardio bouncing exercises to your reformer. Fun after 6+ months of regular use — but you need a foundation of reformer movement first.
  • A Pilates long box — Used for Swan Dive, Pulling Straps, and Rowing. Usually comes bundled with studio equipment — check before buying separately.
  • A Pilates chair — Excellent second piece of equipment for a home studio. Wait until you've hit a clear plateau on the reformer alone, which takes most people 12+ months.
  • A streaming subscription on day one — Pilates Anytime and Merrithew On Demand have thousands of classes. Get 6–10 studio sessions first to understand the vocabulary, then subscribe.
  • A full-length mirror — Genuinely useful for checking your form at home — but only once you know enough about alignment to use it. Order after your first month.
First week

Your first seven days

A short, real plan to get from gear-on-doorstep to actually playing.

  1. Book a private or duet reformer session at a local studio before your machine arrives. One hour with a certified instructor is worth three weeks of YouTube. · Action
  2. Measure your intended reformer space: 8 feet long, 2 feet wide, plus 2 feet of clearance on each side. · Action
  3. Order your reformer. Delivery takes 5–10 business days for most brands; schedule accordingly. · Buy
  4. Order grippy socks before anything else — you'll need them on day one. · Buy
  5. Watch Pilates Anytime's reformer introduction on YouTube. Understanding spring settings before you use the machine saves 30 minutes of confusion on session one. · Learn
  6. Do your first home session at 50% effort. The reformer exposes muscle imbalances you didn't know you had — soreness after session one is real. · Action
FAQ

Common questions

Do I need a reformer, or should I start with mat Pilates?

Mat Pilates is a complete workout — it's not a stepping stone to the reformer. Start with mat Pilates if you're unsure whether you'll commit. Buy a reformer after 2–3 months of consistent mat work when you know you'll use it.

How much space does a Pilates reformer actually need?

A standard reformer needs 8 feet long and 2 feet wide in use, plus 2 feet of clearance on each side to move around it. A 10' × 10' room works comfortably. Fold-up models store upright at about 22" wide when not in use.

Fold-up or traditional reformer — which should I buy?

If space is limited: fold-up (cord-based resistance, stores upright). If you have a dedicated room and serious commitment: traditional spring-based. The main practical difference is resistance feel — cord is smooth and progressive; springs have a variable arc that exactly matches what certified instructors teach on. Both give a real workout.

Can I learn reformer Pilates from YouTube without taking classes?

Technically yes, practically risky. The reformer teaches alignment through physical feedback — without an instructor there to catch you rounding your lower back or gripping the wrong muscles, you can entrench bad habits fast. Take 6–10 studio sessions first. Then YouTube is a perfectly valid ongoing practice.

How often should I use my reformer?

Three times per week is the classic Pilates prescription and it's correct. The practice builds muscular endurance and motor patterns that need 48 hours of recovery between sessions. More than five times a week in month one leads to overuse soreness; less than twice a week and the skill-building stalls.

What spring setting do I start with on a home reformer?

Most reformers have 4–5 springs. For beginner exercises start with 2 springs (medium resistance). The Hundred, Footwork, and Coordination exercises are typically done on 2 springs. Decrease to 1 for arm work; increase to 3–4 for leg presses. Your class video or instructor will call the setting for each exercise.

Going further

Where to next

Related hobbies

Browse by category

Authoritative sources

  • Pilates Anytime — The largest online Pilates platform — hundreds of reformer classes at every level. The go-to streaming resource once you have a machine and understand the basics. Free trial; subscription after.
  • Merrithew Education — Free foundational video series for new reformer users from one of the two major professional certifiers. Authoritative, well-paced, and applicable to all reformer brands.
  • Pilates Method Alliance — The professional organization for certified Pilates instructors. Use their Find a PMA-CPT tool to locate qualified teachers for studio sessions before buying a machine.
  • Balanced Body — One of the two major professional reformer manufacturers. Their free YouTube channel and blog are excellent for understanding equipment and technique fundamentals, regardless of which brand you own.
  • Pilates Style Magazine — Trade publication covering the fitness and methodology side of Pilates. Technique articles are accessible to serious beginners and cover both mat and reformer work.
  • The Pilates Podcast — Long-form interviews with instructors and practitioners. Best for understanding the Pilates philosophy before you've built a regular practice.
Woman doing pilates on a reformer machine.

Photo by ROXANA POPOVICI on Unsplash

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