Women's Health November 12, 2026 0 Comments

Unlock Studio-Quality Pilates at Home: The Reformers Editors Swear By for Next-Level Results

Ever thought you could snag a solid Pilates reformer for less than your monthly streaming bill? Well, the AeroPilates Reformer 287 might just be that unicorn in the fitness world — clocking in under $400, it’s a surprising blend of budget-friendly and genuinely sturdy. When I first saw it, I wondered if it would crumble after a few sessions, but trust me, WH’s own Pilates enthusiast Amy Wilkinson gave it a thumbs up for being surprisingly robust — and bonus, it comes pre-assembled (because who has time for confusing setups?). Now, it’s not the Rolls-Royce of reformers — it’s missing a few bells and whistles, and those three resistance cords might have seasoned pros yearning for more. But for beginners or those tight on space, especially if you’re apartment-dwelling like Amy in Brooklyn, this compact machine packs a punch without stretching your wallet. Feeling curious yet about how far this affordable reformer can really take your practice? Dive in and see if it’s your next fitness companion. LEARN MORE

The AeroPilates Reformer 287 is the most affordable option we’ve come across. It’s dramatically less expensive than our best overall—it costs under $400! But that doesn’t mean it’s less effective. Its quality is still impressive, just not studio-grade. WH entertainment editor Amy Wilkinson, an avid Pilates practitioner, was surprised by how sturdy this machine is because of its bargain price, and since it comes pre-assembled (another plus).

But, she stresses it’s best for beginners since it only features three resistance cords. “I could see someone eventually progressing beyond the capabilities of this model, especially when it comes to exercises like footwork and running, which are classically done on four springs,” says Wilkinson. “It also lacks certain accessories you’d typically find with a studio machine—a box, which is typically used for exercises in the short-box series and in a long position for pulling straps and T-press, among others.”

Speaking of resistance, unlike our best overall, this reformer uses cords instead of springs. While they can be trickier to hook on and off, their weight is identical to springs Wilkinson uses on studio-grade models.

The carriage glides smoothly, although Wilkinson notes the attached handles would fall and get in the way. She recommends tossing them aside instead of hanging on the built-in shoulder blocks. As for the foot bar, it’s stable but can’t be adjusted for specific exercises.

Aside from mechanics, this reformer is extremely compact, weighing just 56 pounds, and measuring 42 inches when folded and 85 inches fully extended. Wilkinson lives in a one-bedroom Brooklyn apartment and has no issues stashing it away, although she finds it tricky to fold and wide when the foot bar is attached.

AeroPilates says this product can fit people up to 6’4″, but Wilkinson, who is 5’11”, says even her height was pushing the machine’s limits. “I imagine anyone much taller than I am would feel a bit crunched,” she says. She also says it’s narrow, and didn’t have additional breathing room.