Reformer Tower with Roll Down Bar
A reformer tower with a roll down bar adds spinal articulation, hip mobility and shoulder stability work to your reformer, whether it lives in a spare room or a client studio. We're Pilates Direct, an Australian owned and operated supplier, and we make buying one simple. Browse the range or talk to our team.
What a roll-down bar adds to your reformer
What the roll-down bar is
A roll-down bar is a spring-loaded bar fitted to the tower frame at the foot end of the machine. It gives you another way to work against calibrated resistance, so one setup covers far more exercises than a reformer on its own.
It sits alongside the other tower components rather than replacing them. A typical tower includes a push-through bar, arm springs and leg springs, and some models add the roll-down bar on top of that.
Start with the exercises you want to do, then check the tower has the bars and springs to support them. Specs differ between models, so it pays to look closely.
Pilates Direct Team, Pilates Reformer & Equipment Specialists
Why it widens the exercise repertoire
Adding tower apparatus to a reformer opens up work for spinal articulation, hip mobility, shoulder stability and full-body strength, all from one piece of equipment. That's why many buyers look for a reformer with tower for home and commercial use.
Materials matter for a tower that sees regular use. We stock ranges from Pioneer Pilates and Motion Pilates, along with the half trapeze tower shown below. As with any apparatus, proper form and qualified instruction matter when you start using the bars.
Half trapeze or full trapeze: which tower has a roll-down bar?
Half trapeze towers
Some half trapeze towers include a roll-down bar, but not all do. A half trapeze reformer pairs a studio-grade reformer carriage with a single upright tower at the foot end. The tower typically comes with a push-through bar, arm springs and leg springs, and some models add the roll-down bar on top.
Because it varies by model, always check the product listing for the roll-down bar before you commit.
Full trapeze and Cadillac setups
Full trapeze towers and Cadillac setups typically include the roll-down bar as standard. A full trapeze reformer has an overhead frame spanning the length of the machine, and its tower usually brings together a push-through bar, roll-down bar, arm springs, leg springs and a hanging trapeze bar. A Cadillac is a standalone apparatus with its own padded bed, while a trapeze tower attaches to an existing reformer.
Check the specs, not just the name
Spring counts and resistances differ from model to model, so the label "half" or "full" does not tell you everything. Look at what is actually listed in the inclusions rather than relying on the name alone.
The half trapeze reformer tower
The half trapeze reformer tower pairs a brushed stainless steel frame with an automotive-grade finish and fine knot-less reforested wood with a satin matte finish.
The contact area is coated in sweat-resistant, easy-grip vulcanised rubber, so it stays secure through a session.
Check the product page for specifications, including whether it suits your reformer. We can also help you confirm that.
What to check before you buy
Before you commit to a reformer tower with roll down bar, run through these points. Most compatibility problems show up here, and we're happy to check specs with you before you order.
- Reformer compatibility. Most half trapeze towers fit specific reformer models or frame configurations, depending on end-cap design and frame dimensions. Check the product listing first.
- Roll down bar included. Some half trapeze models include one and some don't. Full trapeze and Cadillac setups typically do.
- Spring counts and resistances. These vary by model, so compare arm spring and leg spring specifications rather than assuming they match.
- Ceiling height. See the room guide below for how much clearance each type needs.
- Floor space. Measure the area around the reformer too, since full setups need more room than half trapeze ones.
How much ceiling height and floor space do you need?
A half trapeze tower typically reaches around 160-180cm above floor level, so most rooms with an ordinary ceiling height have plenty of clearance. The 220cm ceiling height needed for full trapeze setups does not apply, because hanging exercises are not performed on a half trapeze. Full trapeze and Cadillac setups need more of both. The overhead frame spans the length of the machine, so allow extra ceiling height and floor space before you commit. Measure your room first, then check the specifications on the product page. Leave room to move around the equipment safely.Reformer tower questions we hear often
What is the difference between a reformer tower and a Cadillac?
A tower attaches to an existing reformer and adds the same overhead structure as a Cadillac, without needing a separate table. A Cadillac is a standalone apparatus with its own padded bed and full overhead frame. If you already own a reformer, a tower is usually the simpler way to add that structure.
Will a tower fit the reformer I already have?
Possibly, but not always. Most half trapeze towers suit specific reformer models or frame configurations, depending on the end-cap design and frame dimensions. Check the product listing, or send us your reformer's make and model and we'll confirm compatibility before you buy.
Can a tower be used in physiotherapy or rehabilitation?
Physiotherapists do use a reformer with half trapeze, as the push-through bar and spring system suit work like spinal mobilisation and assisted standing. If you're recovering from an injury, check with your physiotherapist or doctor before using any equipment. Proper form and qualified instruction matter on every apparatus.
Not sure which tower fits your reformer?
Tell us your reformer model and we'll confirm which tower suits it, whether you need a roll down bar, and what your space allows. Prefer to see it in person? Visit our Sydney showroom and try before you buy.