A Pilates reformer is a purchase that deserves careful thought. That makes it all the more important to ask the right questions before deciding – of yourself, of your space and of the supplier. Interest is high: in the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) trend survey for 2027, the category "Balance, Flow & Core Strength", which includes Pilates, rose from fifth to third place. As the choice grows, however, so does the confusion. The following ten questions will help you make your decision calmly and with a clear view.
For a detailed overview of designs, materials and price ranges, see our guide to buying a reformer. This article is the compact checklist to go with it.
1. What will the reformer be used for, and how often?
The first question shapes almost all the others. A reformer for your own training at home, with regular sessions, has different requirements from a machine used every day by many people in a studio or hotel. Clarify how many hours the machine is likely to be in use and how many people will train on it. Ask the supplier what level of use the model is designed for.
2. Who will train on it – and does the frame height suit you?
Body height, mobility and personal preferences matter more than many people expect. One important and often overlooked measurement is the height of the frame. A low frame looks more understated in the room; a higher one makes getting on and off easier and suits taller people as well as exercises with standing transitions. On the ALLORO, for example, the floor clearance is 26 cm, on the ALLORO Plus 38 cm – with otherwise identical equipment. Also check the maximum user weight the supplier states for the model.
3. How much space is really available?
The footprint of the machine is only part of the calculation. You also need room to move around the reformer, so that arms and legs can work freely and you can get on and off comfortably. Check the ceiling height if a tower or half cadillac is an option, and think about the way into the room: door widths, stairs and corners in the hallway. We show how to calculate the space you need in How much space does a Pilates reformer need?
4. Wood or aluminium?
Both materials have their merits. Wood brings warmth and calm to a living space or a studio with a classic character. Aluminium looks pared back, is lighter and hardly reacts to changing room conditions. What matters is which material suits your room, your style and your use. You will find the detailed comparison in Pilates reformer in wood or aluminium, and an overview of the models under wooden reformers and aluminium reformers.
5. With or without a tower or half cadillac?
A tower or half cadillac adds a push-through bar, additional springs and holding points to the reformer. This broadens the exercise repertoire considerably without the need for a second machine. In return, it needs more ceiling height and has a stronger presence in the room. Consider whether you want to use these options from the start. We explain all the differences in Reformer with or without a tower?
6. How is the spring system designed?
The springs are the heart of the reformer. Ask about the number of springs, their resistance levels and how easily the setting can be changed during a session. The more finely the resistance can be combined, the better the training can be adapted to your daily form, the exercise and your level. Also find out whether replacement springs are available individually. You can read more in Understanding reformer springs & resistance.
7. How does the carriage glide?
An even, quiet carriage movement is immediately noticeable during training – and audible in a living space. Pay attention to the material of the wheels, the bearings and whether the carriage comes to a calm stop at the end of the movement. This quality is hard to describe in a data sheet. The most telling way is to try the machine yourself.
8. Which upholstery colour – and what does it mean for your order?
The upholstery colour shapes the effect of a reformer in the room more than any other detail. The Virtù Line offers 28 upholstery colours. Nero and Fumo are our standard colours; all other colours are produced to your choice. Ask every supplier which colours are standard and which are produced specially. Worth knowing: for goods made to your individual specifications, the statutory right of withdrawal for distance contracts does not apply. Choose special colours with care – ideally on the basis of a colour sample.
9. How do delivery and assembly work?
Reformers are usually delivered by freight carrier. Clarify in advance where exactly delivery ends, whether you carry the machine into the room and assemble it yourself, and how many people are needed. Ask for clear assembly instructions and who you can contact with questions. Our article Assembling a Pilates reformer shows the process step by step.
10. What happens after the purchase?
A reformer is a training machine with moving parts. Springs, ropes, loops and upholstery are subject to wear over time and should be replaceable when needed. Ask which spare parts are available, who your contact person is and what care the machine requires. You will find an overview of care in Caring for and maintaining a Pilates reformer.
Our advice: try first, then decide
Many of the questions above are answered most clearly on the machine itself: how the carriage feels, which frame height is comfortable, how an upholstery colour looks in the light. In our showrooms in Kitzbühel, Tillysburg & Mallorca, we offer you well-founded advice with no obligation. You will find all locations on our showroom page and an overview of the models under reformers.
Frequently asked questions
Which reformer is suitable for beginners?
No particular model is needed to get started. More important are a finely adjustable spring system, a suitable frame height and qualified instruction. A classic reformer without a tower is sufficient for most exercises at the beginning.
Is a higher frame worth it?
A higher frame makes getting on and off easier and suits taller people as well as exercises with standing transitions. A low frame looks more understated in the room. Ideally, try both heights.
Can I return a special colour?
For goods made to individual specifications, the statutory right of withdrawal for distance contracts does not apply. Ask to see the colour on a sample beforehand.
Do I need a tower or half cadillac straight away?
Not necessarily. A tower broadens the exercise repertoire but needs more ceiling height. If you mainly train classically on the reformer, you can manage well without one at first.
How do I find out which model suits me?
Most reliably by trying it out and through a personal conversation about your space, use and preferences. We will be glad to advise you in one of our showrooms or by phone.
