Reformer Pilates at home sounds ideal until you price a reformer and measure the floor it needs. The good news: much of what a reformer class trains can be approximated on a mat with small props. It is not the same thing, and this guide is clear about where the difference lies.
Full disclosure: Pilamie sells a home Pilates kit of small props, and we link to it below. We do not sell reformers.
What a reformer actually does
A reformer is a sliding carriage attached to springs. You push or pull against the springs, so every move has adjustable resistance and a moving surface under you. Straps let you work arms and legs through long ranges.
What props can and cannot copy
| Reformer feature | Home substitute | How close |
|---|---|---|
| Spring resistance for legs | Loop bands around thighs or ankles | Close for glutes and hips |
| Straps for arms | Long resistance band anchored under the feet or around a post | Close for rows, presses and pulls |
| Inner-thigh and chest squeeze | Pilates ring | Close |
| Unstable surface | Small ball under the hips, back or foot | Partial |
| Feet in straps, long leg circles | Stretching strap around one foot, lying on your back | Partial |
| Sliding carriage | Nothing in a prop kit | Not replaced |
Six reformer-style moves on a mat
- Footwork with a band. Lie on your back, long band around the feet, ends in your hands. Bend and press the legs out. 10 to 12.
- Bridge with ring. Ring between the knees, lift the hips, squeeze gently at the top. 10.
- Leg circles in the strap. One foot in the strap, draw slow circles. 5 each way, each leg.
- Seated row. Sit tall, band around the feet, pull the elbows back. 12.
- Side-lying leg press. Loop band above the knees, lift the top leg against it. 12 each side.
- Chest press with ring. Ring between the palms, elbows wide, slow presses. 12.
Move slowly and stop any exercise that causes sharp pain. If you are pregnant or recovering from an injury, check with a doctor first.
When a reformer is worth it
- You already take reformer classes and want the same exercises at home.
- You have the floor space and a place to store it.
- You want spring settings you can change by small steps.
If you are new to Pilates, starting on the mat with props costs far less and tells you whether you will keep the habit.
Read next
See Pilates equipment for home for the full range of options, or Pilates bar kit vs ring kit if you are choosing between prop sets.
Starting with props? The Pilamie Home Pilates Kit is 14 pieces for $49.99: a 15 in ring, a 9.84 in ball, five loop bands, a long band, a stretching strap, a figure-8 band, an arm and inner-thigh toner, two pairs of grip socks and a carry bag, with a free 28-day plan and free tracked US shipping.