Women's Health March 23, 2026 0 Comments

Unlock Your Best Body: The 6 Pilates Reformer Machines That Actually Transform Your Workout (Editors Tested!)

Ever wondered if a Pilates reformer can seriously pack a punch without punching a hole in your wallet? The AeroPilates Reformer 287 might just be the answer you didn’t know you were craving. At under $300, it’s a total game-changer for anyone craving quality on a budget — no, it’s not studio-grade, but hey, it still holds its own with impressive sturdiness and smooth operation. Amy Wilkinson, our savvy entertainment editor and Pilates buff, was honestly caught off guard by how solid it felt, especially coming out of the box pre-assembled. But, heads-up—this little machine plays best with beginners, sporting only three resistance cords and missing some of those fancy studio add-ons. It’s compact and light enough to stash in tight city apartments, though taller folks might find it a tad snug. Intrigued by the bargain that almost feels too good to be true? Dive into the nitty-gritty to see if this reformer fits your flow. 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 $300! But don’t get it twisted—its quality is still impressive and effective, 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.

Read More: Best Pilates Rings