Selection aid

Find the perfect device for your home or studio

Pilates is a versatile training method that promotes strength, flexibility, and body awareness. But with so many types of Pilates equipment available, it can be difficult to determine which one best suits your needs. This selection guide will help you choose the right equipment, whether you're looking for a home workout or setting up a Pilates studio.

Below we discuss all types, their advantages and disadvantages, what to look out for when making your choice and our different models.

The Reformer

The Pilates Reformer is one of the most well-known pieces of equipment, and you see it pop up everywhere on social media. A Reformer is fully adjustable to suit all needs and can therefore be used by both beginners and advanced users. It consists of a sliding platform (the "carriage") on a frame, with resistance springs and straps for various exercises.

Advantages:

Versatility: Suitable for exercises focusing on strength, flexibility, balance and coordination.
Adjustable resistance: Ideal for different fitness levels and rehabilitation.
Versatile design: Some models are collapsible, stackable, or can be stored vertically.
Full body workout: Trains all muscle groups in a balanced way.

Disadvantages:

Higher cost: Relatively expensive compared to smaller equipment.
Space required: While more compact and stackable options exist, many models still require sufficient space.

For whom?

Consumers: Ideal for home users looking for an all-in-one device.
Studio Owners: A must-have for any professional Pilates studio because of its versatility.
Gym owners : For an extensive fitness offering

The Cadillac

The Cadillac is a large machine often used in studios. It has a sturdy frame with bars, springs, and straps for a virtually unlimited number of exercises.

Advantages:

Complete workout: Combines functions of a Reformer, Tower and Mat Pilates.
Versatility: Suitable for strength, flexibility, stretching and rehabilitation.
Professional quality: Ideal for more complex or therapeutic exercises.

Disadvantages:

Expensive: A Cadillac is a big investment.
Space-intensive: Requires a lot of space and is not suitable for small homes.

For whom?

Consumers: For the serious Pilates enthusiast with sufficient space and budget.
Studio Owners: An essential piece of equipment for extended classes and advanced workouts.

The Tower

A Tower is essentially a smaller, space-saving version of the Cadillac. It's often combined with a Reformer (Tower Reformer) or a mat.

Advantages:

Compact: Suitable for small spaces.
Affordable alternative: Cheaper than a full Cadillac.
Versatile: Offers a wide range of strength and flexibility exercises.

Disadvantages:

Less extensive: More limited than a full Cadillac.
Non-freestanding: Requires a reformer or mat as a base.

For whom?

Consumers: Ideal for home users looking for even more versatility
Studio Owners: A handy addition to studios with limited space.

The Chair

The Pilates Chair is a compact machine that offers a surprisingly effective workout. It features a seat and pedals with spring resistance.

Advantages:

Compact: Perfect for home use or smaller studios.
Intensive training: Ideal for strengthening core and upper body muscles.
Versatile: Suitable for standing, sitting and lying exercises.

Disadvantages:

Specific focus: Less versatile than a Reformer or Cadillac.
Not for beginners: Requires good body control and stability.

For whom?

Consumers: For Pilates practitioners who want to build core strength.
Studio Owners: Great for advanced classes and circuit training.

The Barrel

Available in wood and steel frame versions, the Barrel is designed for stretching, flexibility, and improving spinal alignment.

Advantages:

Stretching and flexibility: Ideal for improving posture and opening the chest.
Compact: Suitable for home use and smaller studios.
Focus on core and back: Perfect for back pain and core strengthening.

Disadvantages:

Limited exercises: Not as versatile as a Reformer or Cadillac.
Not for full workouts: More suitable as a supplement to other equipment.

For whom?

Consumers: Great for stretching and rehabilitation.
Studio owners: Ideal as additional equipment for specific purposes.

Wall Unit

A Pilates Wall Unit is a space-saving alternative to the Cadillac, designed to be mounted on a wall or frame. These units combine simplicity with functionality and are ideal for both home use and studios with limited space.

Advantages:

Space-saving: Perfect for smaller spaces without compromising functionality.
Versatility: Offers strength, flexibility, and balance exercises similar to the Cadillac.
Affordable alternative: Cheaper than a full-blown Cadillac or Tower.
Stable base: Safely and securely mounted to the wall or a special frame.
Professional options: Suitable for both beginners and advanced users.

Disadvantages:

Less comprehensive than a Cadillac: Limited practice options due to the smaller size.
Fixed Location: Cannot be moved, so permanent mounting is required.
Additional mat needed: For most exercises, a separate mat is used as a base.

For whom?

Consumers: Ideal for home users who have limited space but still want a complete workout.
Studio Owners: A cost-effective and compact addition to the offering, suitable for individual training or small group classes.

Now you know the different types, but what should you look for when choosing Pilates equipment?

Objectives: What do you want to achieve? For general Pilates fitness, a Reformer is ideal. For rehabilitation or flexibility training, a Cadillac, Tower, or Barrel might be better.
Available space: If you have limited space, choose more compact machines such as the Chair, Wall Unit or a folding Reformer.
Budget: Equipment ranges from affordable options (Chair, Barrel, Wall Unit) to larger investments (Reformer, Cadillac).
Experience Level: Beginners often benefit more from a Reformer, while advanced users benefit from a Cadillac or Chair.
Future Expansion: Studio owners can consider how the device fits into their existing offerings and how it can attract new customers.

But what are the differences?

Choosing the right Pilates equipment depends heavily on where and how you intend to use it. Whether you're setting up a personal training space at home or equipping a professional studio, we have the right selection. Here's an overview of the key differences between equipment for home and professional use, including recommendations from our selection.

Home appliances

Home use requires compact, user-friendly, and often budget-friendly equipment. These models are designed for individual use and fit easily in smaller spaces.

Features

Compact and space-saving design
Easy to use and maintain
Often foldable or movable

Recommended products

Domo Reformer : A telescopic reformer that's easy to store. Perfect for beginners and small spaces.
Nubium Reformer : ideal for home users who want versatile training, can be stored vertically.
Elite Combo Chair : A compact and affordable option for core strength training, but less suitable for beginners.
Wall Bord ONNE : 5 machines in one for endless variations, must be anchored to the wall.

Why choose home appliances?
These products offer all the benefits of Pilates equipment, without a large investment in space or cost.

Professional equipment for studios

Professional equipment is designed to withstand intensive use and offers advanced features for a wide range of exercises. These models are often more comprehensive and available in different heights, making them ideal for studios and personal trainers.

Features

Durable materials and sturdy construction for intensive use.
Extensive adjustment options for different exercises and body types.
Suitable for group lessons and individual training.

Recommended products

Studio Reformer : the Rolls Royce of Balanced Body reformers with a lifetime warranty – that says it all, right?
Elite Reformer : A popular studio reformer offering excellent value for money and stackable, ideal for maximizing space.
Master Instructor Reformer : A state-of-the-art reformer with extra features like a mini tower. Perfect for studios, available in an elevated version ( Master Instructor Physio ) and with a full tower .
Twin Reformer : with Tower, double carriage and the latest innovations making it very versatile.
Cadillac Elite Reformer : a complete Cadillac with Reformer, for all variations, ideal for training larger muscle groups and therapeutic exercises.

Why choose professional equipment?
Studio equipment offers extensive capabilities, a longer lifespan, and a premium experience for your clients. This is the best choice for trainers, studio owners, and serious Pilates practitioners.

Need more advice? Contact us , we're happy to help!