With so many different types and manufacturers of Pilates machines available, it is important you compare their features and prices so that you are able to choose the machine that is best suited for your company.
In this article, we will introduce different types of Pilates machines, their advantages and disadvantages, six criteria to compare them with, and recommended manufacturers.
If you want to choose the best Pilates machine for your studio, please read until the end.
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Explaining 6 types of Pilates machines
Pilates machines provide support and alignment to perform specific exercises. This increases the effectiveness of Pilates and allows you to effectively train specific parts of your body.
The following are the major types of Pilates machines:
- Reformer
- Tower
- Cadillac
- Chair
- Spine corrector
- Ladder barrel
Reformer Type
The Reformer is one of the most popular Pilates machines. Features a long horizontal bed-like platform (carriage) that slides back and forth on rails with springs providing resistance.
The Reformer includes pulleys, ropes, straps, and foot bars that support approximately 500 movements and can be used in a variety of positions, including sitting, standing, sideways, prone, and supine. This creates a smooth flow with less stress on the joints.
It is a machine that can be used by people of a wide range of levels, from beginners to experts, and is often used for core strengthening and muscle training, as well as flexibility training and rehabilitation.
Tower Type
The Tower is a type of Pilates machine that incorporates the best features of the Cadillac machine.
Constructed with a large frame, springs, bars and straps, designed to improve flexibility, strength and balance. It is possible to effectively train specific parts of the body using a variety of accessories, and there are over 200 types of movements using the tower alone.
The tower takes up less space than other machines, and when combined with the reformer, you can perform over 700 types of training in total.
The Tower provides exercises that specifically help with upper body strength training, core strengthening, and improving flexibility. This allows you to effectively train the muscles of your shoulders, back, and arms, and allows you to target your abdominal and back muscles using straps and bars.
Stretching using springs and bars can also improve flexibility, especially in the back and shoulders.
Cadillac Type
The Cadillac is a multi-functional Pilates machine with a large frame and a variety of accessories such as springs, trapeze, bars and straps for a balanced workout of all muscles in the body. . These accessories allow you to perform exercises that are particularly suited to improving flexibility and strength at the same time.
Compared to other Pilates machines, the Cadillac allows you to exercise in a variety of positions, including standing and hanging positions, and features many attachments and adjustable sections to support complex and advanced movements. is. This holistic approach allows you to effectively train your entire body.
By using the Cadillac, you can train the muscles of the whole body, including the arms, legs, torso and back, in a well-balanced manner, and in the context of rehabilitation, it is also suitable for patients recovering from an injury to gradually regain strength. Masu. Additionally, you can use straps and bars to stretch specific muscles, improving flexibility, especially in your back, shoulders, and legs.
Chair Type
Pilates chairs, commonly referred to as “chairs”, feature a small, compact design with a flat seat and one or two movable pedals. This design allows you to use it in a variety of positions, sitting or standing, and train your muscles by pushing the pedals. Additionally, you can vary the intensity of the exercise by adjusting the spring resistance.
Compared to other Pilates equipment, the chair’s compact size makes it especially suitable for small spaces and home use. Its versatile use allows exercise in a variety of positions, including sitting and standing, and allows you to focus on specific muscle groups and provide effective loading.
The chair can effectively train leg and buttock muscles, and the pedal push exercise can help improve muscle strength. Exercising in a variety of positions is also effective in strengthening your core muscles. Using this equipment will strengthen your sense of balance and body coordination, and will also help strengthen your upper body, including your arm and shoulder muscles.
Spine Corrector Type
The Spine Corrector is a Pilates device designed to improve spinal alignment and flexibility, and is made of wood or plastic and has a semicircular or wavy arched shape. Suitable for stretching and strengthening exercises for the back, hips, and shoulders while supporting the natural curve of the spine.Compared to other Pilates equipment, the Spine Corrector focuses on improving spinal health and function and is easy to operate and space efficient. In addition, in combination with other equipment, it can support exercises related to the spine and increase their effectiveness.
In particular, in stretching to improve flexibility and movement of the spine, improving posture by strengthening the muscles of the back and hips, exercises to improve flexibility in the shoulder and chest area, and in the rehabilitation and palliative care of people with back and hip problems. , the spine corrector plays an important role.
Ladder Barrel Type
Ladder Barrel is a versatile piece of Pilates equipment that specializes in flexibility and core strength. The device combines a curved barrel with a ladder-like structure attached to one end, allowing users to stretch their muscles and strengthen their core by performing various poses and movements on top of the barrel. .Compared to other Pilates equipment, the Ladder Barrel focuses on body flexibility and balance, and is especially good for stretching the back and legs. It’s great for exercises that stretch your back and improve leg flexibility, exercises that work your core muscles, including your abdominals and back muscles, and exercises that improve your sense of balance and coordination.
The Ladder Barrel is suitable for Pilates enthusiasts of all levels, from beginners to advanced, and is ideal for exercises that emphasize flexibility. Those considering a Pilates machine can take advantage of the benefits offered by the Ladder Barrel to work on flexibility and core strength.
So far, we have explained the types of Pilates machines. In the next section, we will explain the advantages and disadvantages of using a Pilates machine. If you are considering the advantages and disadvantages of implementation, please continue reading to the next section.
Advantages and disadvantages of using a Pilates machine
In this section, we will explain the advantages and disadvantages of using a Pilates machine.
Although Pilates itself is mainly performed on a mat, there are many movements that are difficult to perform, especially for beginners.
Even beginners can perform effective training by using machines while building on the movement on the mat.
Advantages
Pilates is originally a mat exercise.The benefits of introducing a Pilates machine can be broadly divided into the following three points.- Even beginners can use a more efficient approach
- Specifications can be adjusted to meet individual needs
- Can provide added value on the machine
A more effective approach
Introducing a Pilates machine is an especially effective approach for beginners.For beginners, it can be difficult to focus on training specific muscle groups when exercising only on a mat without using machines. Some people may fail because they are unable to maintain an effective approach to exercise and cannot continue exercising for a long time.
A Pilates machine allows you to perform a variety of exercises with precision, allowing you to strengthen specific muscle groups and adjust the intensity of the exercise to suit your individual needs.
In particular, it allows you to strengthen muscle groups such as legs, arms, and back and adjust the difficulty of training in a safe and effective way.
Specifications can be adjusted to meet individual needs
Using a Pilates machine allows you to adjust the specifications to meet your individual needs better than using a mat for exercise.Mat-only exercises rely on the user’s body weight and the resistance of the ground, making it difficult to tailor to individual needs and abilities, especially for beginners or those who are not in top physical condition.
By using a Pilates machine, any student, beginner, or person undergoing rehabilitation can easily and safely exercise with the correct form. You can also focus on training specific areas, such as your abdominal muscles, back muscles, and legs.
On the other hand, if you are an advanced student, you can increase the resistance of the machine or create more complex movements, allowing you to expand your Pilates movements.
Create added value on the machine
By introducing a Pilates machine, you can provide the added value of “using a Pilates machine” to the students.Pilates on a mat is authentic, and especially for advanced users, it is possible to perform the original Pilates exercises only on a mat without a machine.
However, by introducing a machine, beginners to intermediates can practice Pilates with peace of mind, and we can provide users with an experience that makes them look good.
Some people who exercise find motivation to continue by posting photos on SNS.
Another appeal of installing a Pilates machine is that it can meet a wider range of needs, such as how easy it is to engage in Pilates and how good it looks in photos.
Disadvantages
On the other hand, there are some disadvantages to using a Pilates machine, so consider the following points.- Requires Space in Installation Location
- Installation or additional fees
Requires Space in Installation Location
Pilates machines, especially reformers, are large and take up a lot of space in your studio.Therefore, although it is good if you can use a large studio, the limited space may limit the number of participants, and the studio space may feel small.
If you want to maximize the number of people you can train while saving space, we recommend using foldable equipment or small equipment such as chairs or reformers with towers.
Installation or additional fees
When you install a Pilates machine, a certain amount of cost is inevitably required.Even if it’s cheap, it’s around 2,000 USD to 3000 USD, and if it’s from a reliable manufacturer, you might buy equipment that costs 7000 USD or 8000 USD.
Especially if you want to minimize initial costs.
Forcibly introducing equipment will make it difficult to maintain a healthy, long-term management. We recommend that you set a realistic budget and install equipment that you can afford.
So far, we have explained the advantages and disadvantages of introducing a Pilates machine. In the next section, we’ll explain six criteria to consider when choosing the best Pilates machine for your studio.
If you want to install the best Pilates machine for your studio, please feel free to keep reading.
6 comparison criteria | How to choose a Pilates machine
Consider these six criteria when choosing a Pilates machine:
- Choosing the right size machine for your studio
- Pilates machine design
- Price
- Introduction results
- Pilates machine manufacturing location
- Delivery date
Choose the appropriate machine for the size of your studio
When choosing a Pilates machine, it is very important to choose a machine that is the appropriate size for the size of your studio.When you install a machine, you will inevitably need installation and storage space. However, the size of a studio is limited, so if you want to make the most of a small space, it may not be appropriate to install equipment that requires space, such as a reformer.
If the studio becomes small due to the introduction of equipment, it may become difficult to exercise or the studio may feel small.
If you are concerned about the small size of your studio but would like to install a Pilates machine, we recommend choosing a small machine or a collapsible Pilates machine.
Pilates machine design
When choosing a Pilates machine, it is also important to choose a machine with a design that is preferred by the intended user.For example, if your main customers are users for health or rehabilitation purposes, it may be appropriate to install a Pilates machine with a wood-based design that gives users a sense of security.
On the other hand, if you are targeting individuality, differentiation, or the high-end or luxury segment, it may be more appropriate to choose a design that is conscious of social networking sites such as Instagram.
With the advent of the recent boom, there are many opportunities to see similar machines, so by choosing a unique design that is different from those around you, you can create an opportunity to gain fans.
In addition, since Pilates has many female clients, using colors and designs that appeal to women gives a gentle impression, which may lower the hurdles to starting Pilates and help maintain and improve motivation.
We recommend that you install a Pilates machine with a design that matches the target users of your Pilates studio.
Price
When choosing a Pilates machine, it is important to choose a machine that fits your company’s budget.Among the machines, I think there are some people who would like to use the orthodox Balance Body and BASI machines, but many people find them out of reach due to their high prices.
Be careful to keep your budget in consideration when choosing a pilates machine so that you can get the best balance between cost and performance.
However, if you choose a cheap Pilates machine, there are cases where the quality of the machine is low. Please note that there are cases where the durability of the machine is low or the carriage does not move smoothly, and you may need to replace it.
If you are having trouble choosing a price, we recommend considering whether your studio lessons are group lessons or personal lessons.
If it is a group lesson, you may need to reduce the cost of the machine to keep the price low.
On the other hand, for personal lessons, it is recommended to invest some amount in the machine. Since the price per person for lessons is higher than for lessons with a large number of people, it is necessary to create quality, brand power, and originality of the machine.
Introduction results
When introducing a Pilates machine, it is also important to check the manufacturer’s track record and feedback from users who have actually installed the machine.When installing a machine, you will be paying a price that is not cheap, so you want to install equipment from a reliable manufacturer.
For peace of mind, it is necessary to check the past implementation results. In addition to hearing directly from the company about their track record, we recommend checking social media to see what users who are actually using the Pilates machine have to say.
Domestic or overseas production
When choosing a Pilates machine, you should also compare the countries in which the machines are manufactured and sold by brands and companies.Pilates is an exercise that originated in America, so if you want to use full-fledged equipment, you may want to prioritize American equipment such as Balanced Body or BASI.
On the other hand, if you are choosing a Pilates machine with budget as your top priority, you can aim to get the best in functionality and price by choosing a revolutionary Pilates machine manufactured in Asian countries.
On the other hand, when purchasing imported goods, you may be affected by international circumstances. For example, you should be careful as there is a risk that the price of a product you thought was cheap could rise unexpectedly, as it can be affected by unexpected things such as the following.
Difficulties in procuring raw materials due to the global maritime transport disruption caused by the coronavirus pandemic, currency fluctuations such as the current depreciation of the yen, and conflicts.
If you want detailed guarantee support and short delivery times, a Japanese manufacturer that you can trust in their technical capabilities may be suitable.
In order to choose a Pilates machine that is suitable for your company’s financial circumstances and policies, you should compare the brands and manufacturers in which countries you purchase the machines.
Delivery date
The delivery time from when you order a Pilates machine to when it is actually delivered varies depending on the manufacturer and brand.In most cases, it takes about two months from ordering to delivery of the machine, but dealers that purchase machines from overseas manufacturers in large quantities and some domestic manufacturers have shorter delivery times, and in some cases they can arrive in as little as a few days. .
When purchasing a machine, you can schedule the delivery date by checking whether it is in stock and the delivery date after placing an order.
So far, we have explained six criteria that should be compared when introducing a Pilates machine. In the next section, we will introduce specifically recommended manufacturers.
If you want to know which manufacturers and brands make the right machines for your studio, read on to the next section.
5 recommended manufacturers of Pilates machines
This section introduces manufacturers and brands that manufacture Pilates machines. If you know of a manufacturer that would be a good fit for your studio, please feel free to reach out to us.
| Reformer | Tower | Cadillac | Chair | Spine corrector | Ladder barrel | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Balance body | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ |
| BASI | ✔ | – | ✔ | – | – | ✔ |
| Peak Pilates | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | – | ✔ |
| Flight Pilates | ✔ | – | – | – | – | – |
| Okutama Pilates | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | ✔ | |
| Pilates machine factory | ✔ | ✔ | – | ✔ | – | – |
| Motion Care Pilates | ✔ | – | ✔ | – | – | ✔ |
Balanced body
Balance Body is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of Pilates and rehabilitation equipment. We provide high-quality Pilates equipment, training materials, and educational programs that are widely used by Pilates professionals and enthusiasts.The company respects the traditions of Joseph Pilates, the founder of Pilates, while developing products that incorporate the latest scientific research and innovation.
Balance Body manufactures a wide variety of Pilates equipment, including reformers, Cadillacs, chairs, barrels, and mats, all featuring ergonomic designs.
BASI
BASI is an organization specialized in the development of Pilates education and training systems and also manufactures Pilates machines.The company offers a comprehensive and advanced Pilates education program that has trained many Pilates instructors around the world.
Based on scientific evidence and with a deep understanding of anatomy, physiology and exercise mechanics, BASI Systems manufactures a comprehensive range of Pilates machines, from reformers to chairs to Cadillacs.
Peak Pilates
Peak Pilates is a company that manufactures Pilates equipment and provides educational programs. Based on Joseph Pilates’ original methods, we manufacture high-quality equipment that combines tradition and innovation.The company contributes to the growth of the Pilates community through Pilates instructor certification and continuing education programs.
Peak Pilates offers educational programs and equipment that are faithful to the original Pilates method, incorporating the latest research and technology into our machines while preserving the traditional Pilates method.
Flight Pillates
Flight Pilates is a brand operated by Yoshimasu Seisakusho, a manufacturing company with over 60 years of experience in the aerospace industry. In addition to mainly manufacturing reformers, they are also planning to manufacture and sell chairs in the near future.
Based on years of experience in the aerospace industry, they are designed with an emphasis on high safety standards, reliability, and thorough quality control systems and manufacturing processes.
Each part of this machine is made with durability and precision to ensure that it can be used for a long time with peace of mind. Furthermore, detailed design ideas contribute to maximizing the effects of Pilates.
Flight Pilates machines have the following features:
- Operated by Yoshimasu Manufacturing, which manufactures aircraft parts → Precise design to aircraft standards
- Manufacture and sale of foldable reformers → Smooth movement that does not make you feel “abnormal noise” due to joints, which is unique to folding
- You can select your favorite color from a total of 192 color variations
- Because it is highly customizable, production is completely made to order after specifications are finalized
- Studio name, company name, and original logo can be printed on the machine
The Pilates machine we sell is only a folding reformer, but it has a precise design with attention to detail and is made by skilled craftsmen. And with a wide range of color variations, it has gained support from a variety of users.
In addition, it seems that they have introduced a service that allows them to purchase machines using subsidies, which is one of the few in the industry. Therefore, it is recommended for those who want to introduce a high-quality machine at a low price using subsidies.
If you would like to know more, please contact us using the button below.
Contact Flight Pilates Pilates Machine
Introduction example
If you would like to install a Pilates machine with an original design in your studio, we recommend that you visit the Flight Pilates showroom to see the actual machine.
If you would like to see Flight Pilates’ Pilates machine in person, please feel free to contact us using the button below.
Go to see the Pilates machine at Flight Pilates
Okutama Pilates
Okutama Pilates is a company founded in 2014 that aims to contribute to environmental protection and human health. We focus on using naturally derived materials, sell Pilates machines, and provide new products and services using cutting-edge technology.We manufacture Pilates machines based on the blueprints used by Joseph Pilates in 1981, and at our studio near Lake Okutama, you can exercise while feeling the scent of wood. We also manufacture and sell Pilates machines using materials from Tama.
The company manufactures and sells a wide variety of Pilates machines, including reformers, towers, Cadillacs, and chairs, among others.
Pilates machine Factory
Pilates Machine Factory manufactures and sells domestic Pilates machines, and also provides repair and maintenance, training seminars, and online learning services.We contribute to the beauty, health, and performance improvement of our customers through Pilates education and equipment sales that combine the latest medical science. Using technology from Tsubame-Sanjo, Niigata Prefecture, we manufacture our products under strict quality control, including load-bearing tests, with an emphasis on safety.
The company manufactures and sells Pilates machines such as reformers, chairs, and towers.
Motion Care Pilates
Founded in 2017, Motioncare Pilates is a rapidly growing health, fitness and rehabilitation equipment innovator. We are proud of our influence both domestically and internationally, with showrooms around the world and growing.The company’s mission is to make a positive difference in the world by providing devices that promote wellness and joy, and it does so through research, prototype development, rigorous testing, and raw material selection.
We manufacture and sell a wide variety of Pilates machines at particularly low prices, contributing to building a healthy body through Pilates exercise at low cost.
In addition to manufacturing the Reformer, Cadillac, and Ladder Barrel, the company also offers original Pilates machines such as the “Caformer,” which is a combination of the Reformer and Cadillac, and the Combi Chair.
