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The best reformer Pilates machines for home workouts, from just £300
We tried options for every space and budget
Tested by Kim HawleySenior Health & Fitness Tester
If, like Jennifer Aniston and Harry Styles, you’re a dedicated reformer Pilates fan, you’ll already know all about the many benefits. It offers a low-impact, strength-boosting workout that’s been shown to improve flexibility, balance, posture and more.
But regular classes can cost a small fortune – especially at boutique studios – and they get booked up fast, making it difficult to keep it up. That’s where the best at-home reformer Pilates machines come in. These compact machines, complete with springs, pulleys and a sliding carriage, allow you to get your reformer fix from the comfort of your living room.
To see if they’re worth investing in, our fitness pros slipped on their grippy socks and got to work.
The best reformer Pilates machines for 2026
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To help you find the best for your home, our in-house experts trialled three bestselling reformers from popular brands in our state-of-the-art Good Housekeeping Institute gym. They judged them on a range of factors including design, ease of use, comfort and performance. You’ll find a full breakdown of our rigorous testing process below our reviews.
And if our tested options are quite right, then our team of editors, personal trainers and Pilates enthusiasts have also highlighted some of their favourite models, starting from £300.
How we test reformer Pilates machines
Our experts got to work putting the Pilates reformers through their paces in the Good Housekeeping Institute gym.
First, they checked how easy each machine was to set up and start using, considering whether the instructions were simple to follow.
Next, they put each reformer through a series of classic exercises, from leg circles to ab curbs, assessing how stable it felt, whether the carriage moved smoothly and how durable the springs were. They also considered how easy it was to adjust the foot bar, the quality of the straps and loops, and additional features like accompanying apps and equipment including hand weights and balls.
Finally, they judged how easy the designs were to fold away, move around and store when not in use. Our winners are marked with the GHI Approved logo.
The other picks in our article have been recommended by GH editors and Pilates fans.
FOLD Original Reformer
FOLD Original Reformer
Score: 91/100
Enjoy a studio-quality experience from your home gym/corner of your living room with this premium piece of kit.
The machine comes in a cardboard box, with the option to pay for a premium delivery service that includes unboxing the machine in your chosen spot. It is on the heavier side, so we recommend opting for this if you’re setting up solo. Once in place, it’s a breeze to assemble thanks to step-by-step video tutorials, with clear detailed guidance on how to use it safely.
Our expert was immediately impressed with the high-quality design, complete with a sturdy wooden frame, smooth-moving carriage, five robust resistance springs and comfortable padded straps. It has all the adjustable features you need (multiple foot bar positions and three stopper positions for tall users) and it comes with a full suite of Pilates accessories including a ring, ball, mat and light dumbbells.
It was a total pleasure to use, with the accompanying Fold app providing helpful online coaches and a variety of classes to suit all experience levels. You get six months of the Fold app free with your purchase, then you’ll have to pay for a subscription with options starting from £8.20 per month. Granted, it doesn’t come cheap, but it’s a premium machine that will be with you for years to come. Plus, if it's something you do regularly, you’ll save money on weekly studio classes in the long run.
Note, the reformer will take up significant space wherever you set it up, but it does fold away and can be stored neatly when not in use.
Key specifications
| Dimensions | 248cm x 80cm x 26cm |
|---|---|
| Max weight | 130kg |
Flexera Folding
Flexera Folding
Pros
- Streamlined luxury look
- Rent or buy option
- App has a variety of classes
- Folds to keep compact
Cons
- Extra monthly cost for the app
- Accessories at an extra cost
Score: 90/100
If you love reformer Pilates but don’t have a lot of space at home, this foldable machine from Flexera could be the answer - once folded in half, it's just over a metre long. There’s also an option to rent it, from £39 a week, if you prefer.
Set-up took minutes, and the foldable design and wheels make it easy to store when you’re not using it – although our expert found that it took two people to collapse it safely, so you’ll need to phone a friend!
It’s perfect for all abilities, too - the machine has three resistance levels, from light to hard, and is easy to adjust with its coloured springs. Even during trickier exercises, our testers found the reformer bed stable, with no wobbling, while the leather finishings were padded enough to support knees and arms during certain movements. If you’re a newbie, don’t worry – our testers also praised the clear, high-quality tutorials on the brand’s Flexera app.
The app is a standout feature. Offering a wide range of beginner to advanced classes - from 6-week challenges to core classes - they allow you to progress as you start to gain confidence. A three-month app subscription is included when you buy the machine, which then costs £19 a month, while renters get access to the app included within their weekly cost.
Key Specifications
| Unfolded dimensions | 238cm x 68cm x 24cm |
|---|---|
| Folded dimensions | 120cm x 68cm x 42cm |
| Max weight | 150kg |
Gymproluxe Portable Pilates Reformer
Gymproluxe Portable Pilates Reformer
Score: 74/100
If you don’t have the space nor the funds for a studio-style reformer in your living room, this compact option from Gymproluxe is a reliable alternative that's less than £300 right now
Not a traditional reformer with a sliding carriage and pulley system, our expert described it as a ‘Pilates-inspired, band-based training system’ which bridges the gap between mat Pilates and reformer-style movements. The fixed, well-padded board feels sturdy and comfortable for kneeling, planking and floor-based work, while the smooth sliding carriage allows for controlled movements like lunges, pikes and plank variations. Resistance comes from 5kg bands, which are attached to the board or the bar, for presses, rows, squats and arm work.
Set-up is quick and intuitive, with assembly and exercises demos accessed via a QR code which includes an extensive digital library with guided workouts. The low-profile design means you can easily store it under a bed or behind a sofa, and the lightweight construction means it’s super practical.
Granted, it won't satisfy reformer purists, but it is a versatile piece of home exercise equipment for those who want a low-commitment way to add Pilates-inspired workouts to their home routine.
Key specifications
| Dimensions | 25cm x 178cm x 74cm |
|---|---|
| Max weight | Not specified |
NordicTrack Ultra 1 Reformer
NordicTrack Ultra 1 Reformer
Pros
- Premium machine with touchscreen
- Real-time feedback
- Hundreds of classes to choose from
Cons
- Expensive, with app membership an extra cost
- Some comfort and stability issues
Score: 74/100
This premium Pilates reformer, which has a sleek maple finish, features a 24-inch HD touchscreen that tilts, pivots, and swivels to the left of the machine, allowing you to adjust it as you move.
The machine arrives mostly pre-assembled, making it easy to get started, too. You log in via the iFIT app, where you can access hundreds of classes, ranging from beginner to more advanced. While there aren’t any videos on set-up available yet, you will find a range of clear tutorials on the app taking you through key moves and correct form on the machine.
Testers found the foot platform and carriage relatively narrow, while the gap in the foot bar, which is designed to improve the visibility of the screen, meant comfort and stability were affected during some exercises. However, the carriage was sturdy, with no wobbles during workouts, and we appreciated the real-time feedback onscreen. This feedback also guides you through different levels of resistance and tracks your performance, creating an immersive feel.
The bed has an enclosed spring design, which our testers said made it easier and safer to use. The three buttons, which can be pressed or lifted, provide resistance levels ranging from 22 to 99 lbs (10-45 kg). It’s a pricey option, but you get a 30-day at-home trial of the machine so you can decide if it's right for you, plus a mat, Pilates box, head support and jumpboard included. Note, an iFIT membership costs an extra £34 per month or £349 per year.
Key specifications
| Dimensions | 283 x 78 x 86cm |
|---|---|
| Weight | 90kg |
Nexace Reformer Pilates Machine
Score: 70/100
For under £400, this simple but reliable reformer offers excellent value for money.
In the box, there’s everything you need to get started, including resistance cords, an adjustable foot bar, a padded headrest, hand and foot loops and adjustable pulley rods. It doesn’t come with additional accessories, though.
Set-up instructions are minimal, but our tester said the process was fairly straightforward thanks to handy video tutorials. They also noted the design is solid, with minimal wobbling as they performed a series of Pilates moves. The carriage glided smoothly, the straps were comfy to hold, and it was easy to change the springs and adjust the foot bar during workouts.
The machine allows you to perform all the movements you would in a regular reformer class, but there's no accompanying app for follow-along classes or form tips. It does come with a laminated exercise guide, but it’s pretty basic. We recommend following dedicated reformer Pilates video on YouTube instead.
After your session, the metal design can be folded away easily and stored behind a door or underneath a sofa. It’s worth noting, though, that the small frame means it’s probably not suited to those on the tall side. Our tester is under 5”5 and there was only just enough room for them to stretch out.
Read our full Nexace Pilates Reformer review.
Key specifications
| Dimensions | 212cm x 72cm x 50cm |
|---|---|
| Max weight | 135kg |
Editors' picks
TODO Pilates Reformer Machine
TODO Pilates Reformer Machine
If you’re on a tight budget, consider this more affordable option, which has an sturdy steel frame, four durable mental springs for resistance, shoulder pads made from padded foam, and a stable carriage for performing movements smoothly and safely.
It lacks the bells and whistles of pricier machines, as there’s no app or extra equipment or features. On the plus side, the design is foldable and features transport wheels, so when you’re done with your workout, you can store it away quickly and easily.
Key specifications
| Dimensions | 200cm x 50cm x 45cm |
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| Max weight | 181kg |
AeroPilates Reformer 435 Plus
AeroPilates Reformer 435 Plus
Not your standard reformer, this foldable option from AeroPilates also features a vertical trampoline on the end of the machine (yes, really!) so you can get your low-impact cardio fix, too.
Unlike the other machines in this list, this one sits low to the ground, offering top-notch support when performing trickier moves. It comes with four resistance chords, a flared foot bar to increase stability and allow for a wider range of motion, plus padded shoulder rests.
Best of all, you also get access to a video library including 12 workouts for different levels along with an exercise chart to help you perfect the moves.
Key specifications
| Dimensions | 65cm x 42cm x 219cm |
|---|---|
| Max weight | 136kg |
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute
We’ve been testing products for over 100 years at the Good Housekeeping Institute. We have a state-of-the-art gym on site, where we test everything from treadmills and exercise bikes to yoga mats and dumbbells.
Our senior sleep and wellness tester, Kim Hawley, has a level 4 personal training qualification and over 30 years’ experience working in leading health clubs across the UK, so she knows what to look for in the best fitness equipment. She designs rigorous testing protocols to ensure we’re reviewing each product accurately and fairly.
Our sleep and wellness editor, Priyankaa Joshi, has been writing about health and wellness products for several years. She is currently completing her level 2 personal training qualification and is a self-confessed Pilates enthusiast, so she's well placed to write about the best reformers.
What are the benefits of reformer Pilates?
“Reformer Pilates strengthens your core, improves your posture, increases flexibility and enhances balance and coordination,” says Vidushi Binani, founder of reformer studio and wellness space Volonte. “It also builds muscle tone, supports joint function and is great for injury-prevention rehabilitation."
The low-impact exercise is suitable for all ages and fitness levels, allowing you to tailor the resistance level to your abilities. As you get stronger, you can use the machine to up the intensity.
What to look for when shopping for a Pilates reformer
Here, Bihani highlights the key features to look out for.
Design: It’s important to look for a solid, sturdy design (whether it’s made from wood or aluminium) with a smooth, comfortable carriage and strong springs for resistance. There should be an adjustable foot bar, ropes or straps and a headrest.
Dimensions: Make sure to check the dimensions of the machine to ensure you have enough space in your room. If you’re tight on space, opt for a foldable design.
Springs: The springs determine the level and quality of resistance during workouts. Look for machines with high-quality steel springs that feel smooth and responsive. It'a also worth checking how easily the springs can be attached and removed mid-activity. Colour-coded springs can make changes speedier and more intuitive – especially for beginners.
Cost: As with any piece of home gym equipment, a reformer machine is a sizeable investment, with prices ranging from £200 up to over £2,000. A higher price tag doesn’t always guarantee quality, but more expensive machines to do tend to have more advanced features and extra accessories. Check you do need them before you buy.
Extra features: Some reformers come accessories including dumbbells, Pilates rings and balls, so you don’t need to purchase these at an extra cost to enhance your sessions. Some premium designs, like Fold, also have accompanying apps that provide access to an extensive library of workouts. Just note, they may come with a monthly subscription fee.
Who should avoid reformer Pilates?
According to Bihani, reformer Pilates is generally considered safe for most people.
“It may not be suitable if you have spinal instability or acute disc issues,” she points out, noting that it’s advisable to check with you a medical professional if you’re unsure.
For pregnant women, reformer Pilates can be a great way to stay active during the second and third trimesters, but it’s advisable to work with a qualified instructor who can modify the exercises safely.
The verdict on reformer Pilates machines
If you’re a big Pilates lover and you want to reap the rewards at home, we recommend our winner, the Fold Original Reformer. It’s a top-quality design that replicates the studio experience in your living room, and offers a suite of classes via the user-friendly app. Just make sure you’re got enough space, and you’ll use it regularly.
If you don’t want to spend as much, the nexace Reformer Pilates Machine should be on your radar. It’s not the most aesthetically-pleasing design, but it allows you to get a decent session in, and it won’t take over your entire space.
The AeroPilates Reformer 435 Plus, which includes a built-in trampoline, is also worth considering if versatility is key.
Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more. Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills.
Sarah is our wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. She can be regularly found on a yoga mat or training for a run, so she knows what to look for when it comes to the best yoga leggings, hydration vests or running trainers. From fitness trackers to the best supplements, she also has extensive experience writing about the latest products and writing detailed honest reviews.
Prior to joining the GHI, Sarah was a freelance journalist for 10 years, specialising in health, fitness and travel for national newspapers and magazine. During her time at Women’s Health, she interviewed celebrities about their fitness routines, for the Telegraph she investigated the health risks of Lime Bikes and visited Thailand to look at the trend of longevity travel - while for the London Standard she wrote about topics including AI powered PTs and smart ice baths.
When she isn’t testing out the latest smart watches, lifting weights at the gym, or hopping on a flight, Sarah can be found running around South London or devouring the latest trending TV show.
Kim Hawley is the Senior Health & Fitness Tester at the Good Housekeeping Institute, where she leads the independent testing of health, fitness, wellness and sleep products using evidence-led protocols and her extensive industry expertise.
With more than 30 years' experience in the health and fitness industry, Kim has worked as a lead personal trainer, fitness instructor and health writer, teaching at some of London's leading health clubs, including The Harbour Club, David Lloyd and The Chelsea Club. Kim has a particular interest in women's health, especially pre-, peri- and post-menopause, and combines hands-on industry experience with rigorous product evaluation. From fitness trackers and smartwatches to home gym equipment, recovery devices, wellness tech, supplements and sleep solutions, she oversees comprehensive testing to help consumers make confident, informed purchasing decisions they can trust.
