All About the Reformer in Pilates

The reformer in Pilates is probably the most well-known of all the apparatus in a Pilates studio. It really is the centrepiece. It’s also a strange-looking contraption that can be intimidating when you first use it, which is why I do introductory sessions with new clients. So what is the reformer, exactly? Let’s find out. 

What the Reformer Isn’t

I’ve noticed that more people are asking me if I teach “reformer Pilates” or “regular Pilates” (meaning mat). They assume that anything with springs is a reformer, and that it’s a different “type” of Pilates than mat. In fact, the reformer is just one of many different apparatuses used to teach Pilates, and both the apparatuses and mat are meant to work together as a system rather than being taught separately. (Learn more about all that here.) All of the apparatuses will help you get stronger and more controlled for your mat practice, but today we are talking about the reformer in Pilates. 

The First Reformer

The reformer was invented by Joseph Pilates to assist his clients in “reforming their bodies”. It is said that he started designing apparatuses when he was working with injured clients for whom he had to physically assist, which was a lot of work and stress on his body. The design evolved over time, and eventually the universal reformer as we know it today was what he had in his New York Pilates studio.

It was a rectangular wood frame with an upholstered carriage, shoulder blocks, head rest, metal footbar, four springs that could be added or removed for different exercises, leather straps with loops for the feet, and a wood and metal handle for the hands. Then there was a box that goes on top of the carriage for long box and short box exercises.

Joseph Pilates’ client would come to his gym, pay a $5 fee, and then start working out. There were posters on the wall with photos of Mr. Pilates doing each of the exercises in a set order that was planned so each exercise prepares you for the next. It was made easy to follow and the reformer’s design would quickly let you know if the exercise didn’t feel right. He had teachers and himself in the studio, watching and assisting clients if they were unsure or having trouble with the apparatus or the exercises.

The Reformer Today

If you were to go to a Pilates conference or trade show, or just Google “Pilates reformers”, you will see all kinds of variations of Joseph Pilates’ original design. They all adhere to Pilates’ original principles and work with the exercises, but have additional features to make modern use easier. 

My first experience was on a Balanced Body wooden studio reformer. They have been designing reformers for over twenty years, and they are meant to last! From there, I tried the Peak Pilates deluxe reformer, which can be converted to a tower and folded up to easily move and store. 

I also taught in a studio with Allegro 1 reformers that we could tip up and anchor to the wall to make space for our mat classes. There are streamlined, modern-looking white reformers, fancy reformers with inlaid floral designs, and some you can customize the wood or colour.  

Whichever reformer you work with, though, you’ll find that they have various spring weights and multiple options for the foot bar position. Some also have multiple pulleys for the arms and legs, as well. 

My Favourite Reformer in Pilates

About seven years ago I tried a Gratz reformer. It looks pretty basic but it’s the simplest reformer I’ve ever been on and I love it. It’s my go-to reformer in my studio. But then I met the Contrology reformer designed by Jay Grimes with Balanced Body. 

I think it’s even more amazing than the Gratz reformer, and I’ve had it on my “must-have” list for a few years now. Well, I did it! I’m eagerly awaiting its arrival and already considering getting a second. Can you tell I’m excited?

Try the Reformer

If you haven’t had a chance to try the reformer in Pilates yet, what are you waiting for? It and all the apparatuses will improve your mat Pilates practice by helping you get stronger, find deeper connections in your body, and perform the exercises with more control. Stay tuned for more posts about the different apparatuses; some might surprise you!