These 8 Affordable Reformer Pilates Machines Will Make Your Home Workouts Seriously Effective

I'm sure you remember the frenzy last year when Aldi and Lidl rolled out their highly anticipated Reformer machines, which flew off the shelves. But fear not - for those unable to cinch the viral pieces of kit, we've tracked down the best reformer Pilates machines that'll provide an affordable and reliable at-home workout solution instead.

We might have now moved into 2026, but reformer Pilates is still the workout du jour with anywhere between 100,000 to 1M searches for the form of low-impact fitness on Google a month. Not to mention, a 2025 study found that Reformer Pilates can increase muscle strength and endurance, and positively impact mental wellbeing. The only thing is, in-studio Reformer Pilates classes can be really pricey. While I love how the sessions feel (yes, even when my quads are on fire), my bank balance does not love how much it costs. However, there is a middle ground.

Enter: the best at-home Reformer Pilates machines that promise the same results as in-studio classes. Yes, they exist as an affordable and more convenient alternative. Plus, most designs are collapsible, so they're pretty easy to store at home too. Now that we're in the thick of winter, dragging yourself out of the house to get to the gym is no mean feat either. So, an at-home Reformer Pilates machine could make things much easier, cheaper and more convenient. Win, win, win.

But what about the best at-home Reformer Pilates machines to buy? While Reformers don’t come cheap, they are a great investment long-term if it's a workout you'll do multiple times a week. If you’re after a much more affordable option, Pilates bars, Pilates sliders, Pilates rings, Pilates boards, and resistance bands are great alternatives.

Team Marie Claire UK has also rounded up the best Pilates clothes, along with the best Pilates tops, leggings, Pilates socks and unitards to kit yourself out for your practice. Keen to hear more from the experts about the at-home machines and this popular style of workout? Don't miss an expert's go-to Pilates moves, key info on vibration plates, the best 20-minute Pilates workouts, and the viral Pilates wall workout, while you're at it.

Reformer Pilates machines and alternatives: Quick shopping links

• Best mid-range - £275 at Currys
• Best everyday Reformer - £379.62 at Amazon (save 24%)
• Best for performance - £709.08 at Amazon
• Best space saving reformer - £59.99 at Amazon
• Best Reformer alternative - £112.09 at Amazon
• Best resistance bands set - £5.48 at Amazon (save 50%)
• Best resistance ring - £14.44 at Amazon (save 15%)
• Best Pilates ball - £6.78 at Amazon (save 15%)

Best Reformer Pilates machines to buy:

1. Best everyday at-home Reformer Pilates machine

With an impressive 5* rating on Amazon, this sturdy Reformer machine promises to make Pilates at home a piece of cake. Promising to be made of thicker metal than other alternatives and support a body weight of up to 135KG, it also comes with a clear and easy-to-follow instruction manual, making set up simple.

Other need to knows: thanks to handy wheels on the base of the machine, you can move it around your space easily, no heavy lifting needed. Plus, you'll be offered a one-year frame guarantee when you buy, with a paid parts replacement service also available, making it a sound investment, in our opinion.

2. Best mid-range Reformer machine

I’ve been trialling this portable reformer from Gymproluxe and I’m convinced my at-home workouts will never be the same again. It’s not an exact replica of the types of reformers you’d see in-studio: it sits closer to the ground for one, which makes it pretty compact, and rather than using springs for resistance, the base board moves via the small wheels underneath and there is also a Pilates bar for arm exercises. It took some getting used to at first, but once I got the hang of it (and with the help of the app-guided tutorials), I was able to use it pretty much like any reformer machine. The compact size also means it slips easily under my sofa, so I can tuck it away when not in use. It’s a great mid-range price point and offers all the strength-building benefits of a traditional reformer. I’m a huge fan.

3. Best Reformer machine alternative

Okay, this might not *technically* be a Reformer Pilates machine, but it's the most machine-like alternative I've found. Plus, at well under £120, it offers a lot of the same features as a Reformer without the often hefty price tag. With a combination of resistance bands and a cleverly designed wood board complete with wheels, you can replicate the movement of a Reformer, plus it takes up far less space than a machine. If you have minimal spare space and want an affordable alternative that does a little more than classic resistance bands, this is a great option.

4. Best Reformer machine for performance

AeroPilates seems to be the most highly-rated Reformer brand out there, and this machine is no exception. Yes, it's a bit more expensive than others on this list, but if you're serious about your Reformer Pilates, you might as well invest in the best quality machine you can find. Like the machines above, this one is foldable and compact and features a patented cardio rebounder to add the option of high-impact moves to your Pilates workout.

5. Most stylish at home Reformer Pilates machine

Nexace is another Reformer brand that seems to be super popular among reviewers, and if you're after a Reformer that won't be a total eyesore in your home, this is the one for you. Yes, it's on the pricier side once again, but it has a chic cream colourway with bleached wood accents, a comfortable ergonomic design and it comes with extra blocks to support your lunges. It's also crafted with quality materials (think premium oak wood). One thing to note: although this Reformer does fold away, it's quite heavy to move (requiring two people ideally), so the collapsible function is best used only on occasion. However, if you have the space for a full Reformer machine and don't want to compromise on comfort, style or performance, this is a brilliant option.

6. Best Reformer Pilates machine for durability

Let's face it: there's no point forking out for a reformer if you're going to need to replace it every year or so. But with this pieceRof kit by your side, you won't have to worry about that happening because it's been durability-tested for over 10,000 uses, ensuring this fit kit will last (and last) as you practise your leg circles, frog and pike. More plus points include its easy set-up as it arrives 90% pre-assembled, and it's also kitted out with smooth-rolling wheels so you can move this foldable reformer around and store it easily once you've felt the burn. Available in four different bundles, you can customise this piece of kit depending on your fitness wants and needs.

7. Best Reformer machine for small spaces

If you're very tight on space or have a smaller budget, this compact Reformer board is ideal. It has many of the same features as a traditional Reformer but it lays flat on the floor (rather that raised on legs) and packs completely flat too, meaning it will take up way less space while you're using it and when it's tucked away.

Unlike the reformer alternative option above, this one has handles and sliding panels, making it feel more like a proper - yet super compact - reformer machine. If I was on a budget and had very little storage space, this is the option I'd go for.

8. Best tower Reformer Pilates machine

Calling all Reformer and Tower Pilates lovers! If you thought you had to head to an in-person class to get your Tower Pilates hit, then think again. The sturdy tower frame is made from stainless steel and can support up to 400lbs of weight. It also comes with an adjustable U-shaped pull bar, box, a taller jump board, foot strap and padded platform extender so you can work every muscle in your body, along with six resistance springs. But that said, all these extra add-ons come at a price. Being the most expensive machine in our list, this is only worth parting with your cash for if you're already adept at tower Pilates and doing at least two to three reformer classes a week.

What is a Reformer Pilates machine?

"To most first-timers, the reformer can look scary, like some kind of torture device” shares Gede Foster, Director of Fitness at FIIT, "but I promise to any Reformer newbies reading this, after your first session, you’ll be hooked."

According to James Shaw, Reformer Pilates Master Trainer at Third Space London, the Reformer Pilates machine has been around a lot longer than we’d think. :The Reformer was the first ever piece of Pilates equipment invented by Joseph Pilates in 1926," shares Shaw.

Its origins date back even further than that - World War I, to be precise. Joseph Pilates "believed movement was essential to recovery when many thought best rest was the answer," shares Foster. "During his time working in the hospitals, he developed a Reformer experimenting with the bed and springs." So the Reformer is just as much about rest and recovery as it is strengthening your core. "Today, the traditional Reformer bed is a bed-like structure with different strength springs attached so the bed can slide out and in," continues Foster. "There are also straps on pulleys that you will place your hands or feet in for various exercises."

Shaw offers more insight into the Reformer’s design: "The Reformer apparatus consists of a sliding carriage, springs, ropes, and various attachments. The Reformer helps to put you into the correct position using springs which put tension throughout the body, and via its touch and contact points like the foot bar, shoulder block and carriage. During a Reformer Pilates session, students perform a series of controlled Pilates movements and exercises while lying, sitting, or standing on the carriage which builds strength, flexibility, mobility and helps to create balance within the body."

What are the benefits of getting a Reformer machine over taking in-studio classes?

According to Foster, there are several benefits to practising Reformer Pilates at home including:

1. No commute

If time is our most valuable currency and for the majority of us we never have enough of it, being able to roll out your mat and practice means you have even more time for your family, friends or other endeavours.

2. No pressure

At home, you’re able to go at your own pace. Classes can sometimes be intimidating and fast-paced so practising at home allows you to find your flow and repeat online classes as many times as you want so you can master your foundations and build your confidence.

3. More flexibility

Without having to travel anywhere there's no stopping you from taking a movement break in your WFH day which will also stimulate blood flow to your brain, from the breathwork and movement, which will be a productivity boost! It’s a win-win!

Need-to-knows before buying your own Reformer machine

That said, do be sure to follow a guide, share the experts. "If you're new to the practice of Pilates, I highly recommend spending some time working on the basics," shares Foster. "The foundations are the secret sauce to success - nail the basics and you’ll reap the rewards." She continues by adding that many seasoned pros who regularly practise the advanced repertoire will often go back to foundational classes to refine alignment.

That said, Foster does point out some benefits to in-studio Reformer Pilates that are difficult to replicate at home. "I would always encourage people to try at least a few classes in person with a teacher for refinement to your form that you can then take away and implement into your home practice."

She continues: "I've taught Pilates for twelve years now and still today, every time I go to my favourite teachers, the small refinements another eye can make on your form are invaluable for really deepening the connection and alignment."

Can you replicate in-studio Reformer Pilates classes with an at-home machine?

Shaw insists you can, but need expert guidance to get the most out of your workout and machine. "There are several manufacturers that offer an at home version of the Pilates Reformer. My particular favourite is the Balanced Body IQ Reformer Home Reformer because it’s lightweight and compact."

That said, he does maintain that you still need expert tuition to ensure you're getting the maximum benefits. "Having the expert eye of a teacher to check your form and provide you with an understanding of what your body needs from the Reformer Pilates workout is essential," he shares.

Not confident with your form on a machine? Opt for sliders or resistance bands, instead. “You can replicate a large portion of the Reformer Pilates repertoire with a long resistance band," shares Foster. "Standing Reformer work can be simulated with sliders (small discs) under your feet. Many contemporary mat Pilates teachers will even incorporate these variations into mat classes for variety and to challenge your muscles in a similar way to the Reformer."

What we looked for in the best Reformer Pilates machines

• Price - will the user get their cost per use?
• Design - is it compact, foldable, comfortable and sturdy?
• Quality - will it stand the test of time?
• Add-ons - does it come with handy accessories to improve your workout?

More Reformer Pilates machine alternatives:

For an even more affordable alternative to one of the best at home Reformer machines, we've rounded up some alternatives below. These tools will help to level up your at-home Pilates workouts for even less than an at-home Reformer - happy shopping.

Best Pilates sliders

A favourite among Barre and Pilates instructors and similar to the resistance bar above, Pilates sliders help to increase the intensity of your workouts. These slim little discs slide across the floor and can be used to improve posture and balance as well as intensifying Pilates core work.

Best ankle weights

Not only are these weights super chic, they'll elevate pretty much any workout, from walking to Pilates. Simply strap them onto your ankles or wrists for some added resistance.

Best Pilates ring

Also known as the Magic O, the Pilates ring was created to increase resistance and intensify the muscle work in your Pilates workout. This ring has comfortable padded handles that won't slip under your grip and comes in two colours to suit your style.

Best Pilates ball

Reviewers have nothing but good things to say about this Pilates ball, noting how easy it is to inflate as well as the impressive quality for the price. You may have used one of these in a Pilates class previously and it's a small but mighty tool to have at home.

Best resistance bands

Resistance bands are a piece of kit everyone needs and this multipack comes at a brilliant price point. And they don't just work for Pilates - there are so many exercises you can do with these at home.