Between budget constraints to inflexible schedules, more Australians are choosing to bring the power of Pilates into the comfort of their own home. However, with so many options available, finding the right Pilates reformer for your home can be tricky.
To simplify your search, we’ve created a guide that details everything you need to know about shopping for a Pilates reformer, beginner-friendly exercises and tips to ensure a safe and sustainable workout.
What to look for when shopping for a Pilates reformer — five key considerations
Whether you love the aesthetic look of a wooden reformer or looking to invest in a machine that’s durable yet affordable, no two Pilates reformers are the same. No matter what you’re looking for, choosing the right Pilates reformer is essential for a safe and enjoyable workout experience.
Once you start shopping around on Pilates reformers, here are five key things to consider:
1. Size and space
One of the biggest considerations when shopping for Pilates equipment is the space you have to work with. For instance, if your home has limited room, opt for stackable or foldable reformers that can be easily stored. On the other hand, for a more studio-like experience, consider a larger reformer with a durable frame and long carriage.
2. Build quality and materials
When it comes to finding the right Pilates reformer for home use, durability matters. For long-lasting performance, look for reformers made from high-quality materials like solid wood or aluminium. It’s also important to ensure the reformer has a smooth carriage glide for seamless movements during exercises.
3. Adjustable and customisable features
To have the best Pilates workout every time, you need to be able to tweak your reformer to how you like it. During your search for the perfect reformer, compare machines with adjustable springs, foot bars and straps. This allows you to tailor your resistance level while having the freedom to accommodate your height for easy, unrestricted movements.
4. Accessories
Some Pilates reformers have additional features like jump boards, box attachments, or padded headrests for added comfort and variety. You may also find Pilates reformers with full trapezes, allowing more versatile and dynamic exercises. Depending on your ability and endurance, ensure you opt for equipment that can deliver a challenging workout.
5. Budget
Cost is another important factor when choosing a Pilates reformer, as it’s important to find a balance between a machine that offers the features you need without spending beyond your means. While high-end models offer premium features, there are affordable reformers that provide excellent functionality for beginners that can still provide a well-rounded workout.
Pilates reformer for beginners — five easy exercises to kickstart your journey
While the Pilates reformer can appear daunting, all it takes is a few sessions before you start feeling like a pro. To kickstart your Pilates journey with a bang, here are five beginner Pilates exercises that target various muscle groups:
1. Footwork
How to perform the movement — Lie on your back with your feet on the foot bar. Extend your legs to push the carriage away, then slowly return to the starting position. As you get more comfortable with the movement, pick up the pace to increase your heart rate.
Muscles targeted — Quads, hamstrings, calves and glutes.
Our top tip — Maintain a neutral spine and avoid locking your knees.
2. Leg circles
How to perform the movement — Attach the straps to your feet and lie on your back. Lift your legs to a 45-degree angle and perform circular motions, alternating directions.
Muscles targeted — Inner thighs, hip flexors and core.
Our top tip — Control your movements and engage your core throughout to give your abdominal muscles some love.
3. The hundred
How to perform the movement — Place your feet in the straps and extend your legs to a 45-degree angle. Pump your arms up and down as you inhale for five counts and exhale for five counts, completing ten cycles.
Muscles targeted — Core, arms and shoulders.
Our top tip — Keep your shoulders relaxed and avoid straining your neck.
4. Short box abdominals
How to perform the movement — Sit on the reformer’s short box with your feet secured under the foot straps. Perform small, controlled sit-ups, focusing on your core.
Muscles targeted — Abs and obliques.
Our top tip — Move slowly and focus on precision rather than speed.
5. Mermaid stretch
How to perform the movement — Sit sideways on the carriage with one hand on the foot bar. Reach your other arm overhead and lean towards the bar for a side stretch.
Muscles targeted — Obliques, shoulders and spine.
Our top tip — Avoid collapsing into the stretch; instead, focus on elongating your torso.
Bring the studio home with our six beginner Pilates workout tips
Like beginning any new workout routine, Pilates is a marathon, not a sprint. Whether your goal is to build strength, improve flexibility or enhance your mental wellbeing, we’ve jotted down six beginner Pilates workout tips to guide your journey:
- Focus on form — Precision is key in Pilates. Pay attention to your alignment, breathing and muscle engagement to maximise results and prevent injury.
- Start slow — Begin with low resistance and simple exercises to build a strong foundation before advancing to more complex movements.
- Breathe — Controlled breathing is a cornerstone of Pilates. During exercises, practice inhaling deeply through your nose and exhaling fully through your mouth.
- Consistency over intensity — Regular, shorter sessions are more effective than occasional intense workouts for beginners. To see steady progress, aim for 2–3 sessions per week before increasing the intensity.
- Seek guidance — For your first few Pilates workouts, watch tutorials, join online classes or consult with a certified instructor to learn proper techniques and avoid common mistakes.
- Listen to your body — If you feel pain or discomfort when performing Pilates exercises, stop and reassess your form. Always remember that Pilates should feel challenging but never painful.
Pilates Direct — Sydney’s leading go-to destination for quality Pilates equipment
With a passion for health and wellness, Pilates Direct is the number one place for Pilates reformers and accessories. As passionate Pilates lovers, we are proud to offer some of the country’s leading brands, making it easy for you to bring the studio home.
Whether you’re a beginner or a Pilates fanatic, we have everything you need for a studio-like experience. Explore our collection of Pilates reformers and accessories today to build your perfect Pilates practice from the comfort of your home.
