Joseph Pilates fashioned his early exercise equipment out of bedsprings while working in an internment camp during World War I. His success in rehabilitating injured soldiers led him to a career in New York City, where he invented the reformer, the Cadillac and the Wunda chair, which are still in use today. Some manufacturers follow Pilates' original dimensions, while others produce modernized versions. The Pilates Guy, a servicing company specializing in Pilates equipment, recommends models manufactured by Balanced Body, Gratz Pilates, Peak Pilates or Stott Pilates. You can choose models from any of those manufacturers to meet a wide range of needs.
Home Use
All of the manufacturers offer home versions of the Pilates reformer machine, ranging in cost from $2,000 to $3,400, as of 2011. As with all of the Gratz machines, the Gratz portable reformer follows Pilates' dimensions to the letter, making this a usable piece of history for Pilates enthusiasts. Models by the other manufacturers are longer and may include wheels for easy moving and storage. For those willing to deviate from Pilates' original specifications, the Springboard by Balanced Body or the Springwall by Stott Pilates enable users to perform hundreds of classic Cadillac exercises in a fraction of the space and cost. As of 2011, both units cost under $1,000 and mount flush against a wall. They use heavy and light springs for resistance. Stott also produces an extensive home-user DVD series.
Professional Grade
Classical-style Pilates teachers gravitate toward Gratz, the only manufacturer that has not improved upon Pilates' original designs. As of 2011, expect to spend $1,500 to $4,200 for a piece of Gratz equipment. Stott Pilates offers an extensive teacher training program with workshops taking place in more than 100 locations around the world. Stott-trained professionals may prefer to work on Stott machines, which, as of 2011, range in cost from $500 to $3,600. As of 2011, Peak Pilates and Balanced Body, both start their professional lines at under $1,000.
Combination Machines
Machines that combine the features of a reformer and a Cadillac, may appeal to home users with a larger budget, or trainers who teach from home or in smaller studios. Balanced Body, Peak and Stott all make similar units that offer a foldable frame attached to a reformer. Springs and pulleys attach at multiple points along the frame, creating a multitude of new variations on Pilates' classical exercises. The Peak unit, the most expensive at about $6,000 in 2011, offers a base which folds, giving it a smaller footprint when not in use.
Considerations
Consumers and professionals occasionally sell used equipment that may be in good shape. Consider having it refurbished by a professional to keep it in good shape. Check with the manufacturer before buying to determine if the warranty is still active. Some consumers and professional trainers may be satisfied with the quality of some Pilates equipment found through infomercial television. If possible, try to test this equipment before buying it. Check objective websites that collect user reviews to help you make an informed decision.
Member Comments