Collection: Reformer Pilates Machines

1. Understanding the Reformer

What is a Reformer?

The reformer Pilates machine is a unique piece of equipment designed for high-volume, targeted strength building workouts. It’s made of a cushioned carriage which is moved by horizontal springs to provide resistance and tension to encourage muscle growth. Reformer machines also come with an adjustable foot bar, headrest and footstraps for versatile full-body movement. 

The Origins of Reformer Pilates: A Legacy of Movement

Reformer Pilates is an exercise that was developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. Originally termed "Contrology," the practice was designed to coordinate body, mind and spirit. Today, the modern reformer Pilates bed has evolved into a sleek, high-performance tool used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts globally to achieve a balanced, resilient physique.

Why Reformer Training is a Game Changer

Training on a reformer offers unique advantages compared to floor-based workouts. The system of springs and pulleys provides eccentric muscle contraction - meaning your muscles are challenged while lengthening. The reformer improves:

• Core Stability: Every movement engages your deep abdominal muscles
• Joint Health: This low-impact exercise protects your joints while increasing mobility
• Muscular Balance: It highlights and corrects imbalances in the body, preventing future injuries

How to Use a Pilates Reformer

The beauty of reformer Pilates is that it’s so versatile and moves can be adapted for every body type. The basic movement involves opening and closing the Pilates carriage using your own bodyweight to push against the springs. When you start using the straps for your hands and feet, suddenly you unlock hundreds of variations that deeply target and isolate your muscle groups. You can do exercises lying down, sitting, standing or kneeling, making this a true full-body workout. 

Core Physical and Mental Benefits

The Pilates burn might be what reformer is famous for but there are plenty of other benefits, including: 

• All-round strength
• Stability from deep core strengthening
• Improved mobility
• More flexibility 
• Better posture 
• Reduced stress
• Calm state of mind 
• A strong mind-body connection

Safety First: Techniques for Adjusting Springs

Learning how to use the springs correctly is the best way to feel the benefits of your reformer Pilates machine. They’re responsible for all the resistance when you’re opening and closing the carriage.

Using heavier springs or more of them, ups the resistance but can also give you more stability on the bed. Using lighter or fewer springs reduces the resistance but can make it more difficult for you to control the carriage - which requires serious stability. 

To safely adjust your springs:

• Come off the carriage 
• Hold the spring at the top to avoid trapping your fingers in the spring
• Make sure the springs are properly connected before you get back on your Pilates machine 

2. Choosing the Right Type of Reformer

The reformer Pilates machine that you choose depends on how you want to use it. Some of our FÔLD reformers are more suited to a home practice while others are made for studios. 

Professional Studio vs. Home Models

Home vs. studio: Studio reformers are built for 24/7 heavy use, whereas reformer pilates machines at home are often designed for less frequent use from a single person.

Frame Variations: Standard, Cadillac, and Tower Systems

The machine has evolved a lot since Joseph Pilates first created it and you can now buy reformers with tower system attachments or entire cadillacs. 

The difference between these frames is the amount of poses you can create and how your body feels when you’re in them. While the standard bed moves on a horizontal plane, with springs attached on the base, the tower and cadillac systems are vertical frames where the carriage is non-moving and springs are moveable and attached to the side. The tower Pilates reformer is just like a cadillac, only it has one frame rather than two.  

Space-Saving Solutions: Folding and Portable Reformers

• Folding Capabilities: For those with limited space, a folding reformer is a revolutionary option, allowing you to enjoy a full-sized workout and then tuck the machine away in a closet or under a bed.

3. Technical Specifications and Build Quality

Material Durability: Wood vs. Aluminum Frames

Classic wooden frames offer a timeless aesthetic and are sturdy during even the most athletic of classes. Aluminum frames provide a modern, lightweight, and incredibly durable alternative.

Resistance Systems: Precision Springs vs. Elastic Cords

Precision springs are the studio standard and if you’ve ever tried a reformer before, they’re probably the ones that you’ll have used. They’re metal and hard-wearing, providing a solid resistance that doesn’t degrade over time. The force of the springs is great for helping you maintain tension as you push the spring away and as you bring the carriage back in. This gives you controlled and consistent tension throughout your workout. 

Elastic cords are rubber or fabric wrapped which are a lot lighter than precision springs. They give you less resistance but are often considered to feel smoother and less ‘aggressive’ than the standard precision springs. While portable and great for people with at-home reformers, their tension fades much quicker over time which can result in less effective movement as they wear out.

Dimensions: Evaluating Unit Length, Carriage Size, and Weight Capacity

Measuring your space is essential before you buy your first reformer. Not only do you need to get the machine into your room but you also need space around the side for moves that involve having a foot off the carriage. You’ll also want to consider how heavy your equipment is but also the load that it can bear. Sturdy reformers that can carry a lot of weight will give you a more stable base for your workouts.

4. Investment and Purchase Considerations

Quality Indicators and Price Range Expectations

Quality Pilates machines: 

• Are always made from a sturdy wood or aluminium base
• Use high-quality metal precision springs 
• Have a smooth and quiet carriage glide
• Have a footbar and straps with adjustable positions
• Include Pilates accessories, such as boxes and jumpboards 

Entry-level home reformers start out at around £500 - £1,200 but you can very quickly outgrow them if they’re not made from good-grade materials. It’s more likely that you’ll look to pay £1,200 - £2,500 for a quality reformer Pilates machine. 

Expandability: Add-ons

Pilates is a dynamic, full body exercise that supports strength building alongside improved mobility and rehabilitation. To get all the benefits of this versatile movement, it’s good to look for a reformer that supports add ons like tower and cadillac conversions. This means you’re getting a quality piece of equipment which meets your needs as they expand.

Long-term Value: Warranty, Maintenance, and Digital App Integration

Buying cheap often means buying again which is why it’s important to do the research and find out what long-term value you get with your reformer Pilates machine. Think about what happens when you need your bed serviced, whether there are any platforms or integrations that give you classes and community from the get-go and a warranty (1 year is the minimum but some companies, like FÔLD offer you up to 3 years’ peace of mind).

Setting the Stage

How Much Space Do You Need?

Ideally, you should have at least 2 feet (60cm) of clear space on all sides of the reformer to allow for a full range of motion during standing or side-lying exercises.

Correct Machine Adjustment

Before starting, ensure your headrest is at the comfortable height (flat or raised) and the footbar is locked securely. Your shoulders should be snug against the rests, but not compressed.

Adjusting the Rope Length

Rope length is critical for maintaining tension. When the carriage is "home" (against the stoppers), the straps should be taut. Most modern machines feature a quick-access cleat system to shorten or lengthen ropes in seconds.

Is the Original FÔLD Reformer easy to set up and store?

Absolutely. The FÔLD Reformer has been designed for just that very reason. You'll be unfolding and sliding into on-demand workouts before you know it. Once your workout is complete, simply fold and slide away to store out of sight.

How much space do I need for an Original FÔLD Reformer?

Surprisingly not too much, but to be sure your new at-home space is ready for you, check out the dimensions below:

• Folded dimensions: Approximately 127cm (L) x 60cm (W) x 40cm (H)
• Open dimensions: Approximately 235cm (L) x 60cm (W) x 26–29cm (H)
• Recommended workout space: Allow at least 60cm of space on each side and 45cm at the end of the FOLD Reformer bed to enjoy free flowing movement.

Accessories, Extensions and Customisation

Can I Add a Tower?

Yes! Many of our reformer Pilates machines are "tower-ready." Adding a tower allows you to perform 80% of the Cadillac repertoire, including leg springs and roll-back bar exercises.

Other Equipment and Add-ons

Enhance your practice with:

• Jumpboards: For cardio-based Pilates
• Sitting Boxes: To add height and variety to seated exercises
• Padded Platforms: For extra comfort during standing work
• Pilates mat, circle, ball, resistance bands and dumbbells: Included in the starter bundle.

Maintenance and Longevity

To keep your reformer machine gliding silently:

• Daily: Wipe down the upholstery with a non-alcoholic, mild soap solution
• Weekly: Clean the rails with a dry cloth to remove dust and hair that can jam the wheels

Monthly: Inspect the springs for any gaps or "waves" and ensure all bolts are tight

What does routine maintenance for a Pilates Reformer look like?

Routine maintenance is simple and effective for safe workouts. Check fixtures and fittings as often as you use your reformer Pilates machine, wipe your upholstery after every session with natural diluted soap, oil your springs with WD-40 every week and polish the wood once per month with beeswax. This ensures your carriage moves smoothly and is squeak-free.