Pilates was invented by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century as an exercise program that can strengthen muscles while improving flexibility and overall health. As Pilates progressed, Joseph Pilates developed additional pieces of exercise equipment, such as the reformer. Designed to improve torso stability and posture alignment, the reformer is built on a sliding carriage with variable resistance that allows a full range of motion. With a specific detailed construction, a Pilates reformer machine can be expensive, but a homemade Pilates machine can be built with a wooden frame, sliding carriage, resistance handles and a foot rest.
Frame
Step 1
Cut four 6-inch pieces from the 4-inch-by-4-inch lumber. These four pieces will serve as the legs of the reformer.
Step 2
Cut two 8-foot sections and two 2-foot sections from the 2-inch-by-6-inch lumber. The long sections will be the sides of the frame, and the short sections will be the front and back.
Step 3
Align the four side sections in a rectangle and apply wood glue at every corner. Use three screws to secure each corner.
Step 4
Place the legs vertically inside the corners of the frame and attach with four screws per leg.
Carriage
Step 1
Cut the plywood into a 1.5-foot-by-5-foot rectangle. This will serve as the base on the carriage. Sand the corners of the plywood with sandpaper to round the edges.
Step 2
Spread glue evenly on the top of the plywood and wrap the exercise mat around the plywood. Use nails on the bottom of the plywood to attach the mat.
Step 3
Install the roller guides on the inside of the frame using the screws that should come with the roller guides. The guides will allow the carriage to move freely back and forth inside the frame.
Foot Rest and Bands
Step 1
Install two S-hooks at the top of the frame. The S-hooks will allow the resistance bands and handles to be changed easily during a workout.
Step 2
Cut the dowel into a 2-foot section and install at the bottom of the frame. The dowel will act as the foot rest.
Step 3
Hook the resistance bands to the S-hooks. Change the level of resistance based on the exercise and current fitness level.
Tips and Warnings
- Place a rubber mat under the homemade Pilates machine to prevent it from moving during a workout.
- Always consult a physician before starting a Pilates or other exercise program. Follow proper mechanics and safety guidelines while performing Pilates exercises.
Things You'll Need
- Saw
- Tape measure
- 4-inch-by-4-inch lumber
- 2-inch-by-6-inch lumber
- Wood glue
- Screws
- Screwdriver
- Plywood
- Sandpaper
- Exercise mat
- Hammer
- Nails
- Guides
- S-hooks
- Resistance bands
- Dowels
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