Pilates has established itself as a holistic training method for strengthening, mobility, and body awareness. In addition to classic mat exercises, specialized Pilates equipment also plays a crucial role. But what equipment is actually available, and what do you really need?
In this comprehensive guide, we'll give you an overview of the most important Pilates equipment, explain their functions, and show you which equipment is best for whom. Whether for a home gym or professional studios, you'll find everything you need to know about Pilates equipment here.
1. Why Pilates equipment ?
Although thePilates method was originally based on floor exercises (matwork), Joseph Pilates developed specialized equipment early on to work more specifically on body control, posture, and muscle balance. These devices generally use spring tension instead of weights and can specifically assist or hinder movements.
Training on Pilates equipment offers:
- A particularly joint-friendly strengthening exercise
- Effective stabilization and stretching effects
- Variations for every fitness level
- Structure and support for more complex exercises
- A greater variety of training for long-term motivation
Pilates equipment allows you to specifically isolate individual muscle groups or train them in functional movement sequences. This not only strengthens the muscles but also improves posture in the long term.
2. The most important Pilates equipment at a glance
a) The Reformer
The reformer is the most well-known Pilates equipment. It consists of a mobile carriage, spring system, pulleys, and adjustable foot bars.
- Training of torso, legs, arms and back
- Ideal for dynamic whole-body exercises
- Increased training variety compared to the mat
- Both supportive and demanding depending on the attitude
Who is it for? The reformer is suitable for beginners and professionals alike and is also used in rehabilitation. The reformer can help gently build movement, especially in cases of injury.
b) The Cadillac (Trapeze Table)
This large device combines reformer elements with a vertical frame structure to which springs, trapezes, and loops are attached.
- Particularly versatile
- Excellent for therapeutic training
- Intensive mobilization options
- Variety of exercises for back, shoulders, hips and more
Who is it for? Ideal for studios , rehabilitation centers, or sophisticated home gyms with sufficient space. The Cadillac is considered the most comprehensive Pilates device available.
c) Pilates Chair (Wunda Chair)
A compact device with a treadmill and spring resistance. The focus here is on stability training.
- Strengthening the deeper muscles
- More compact than Reformer or Cadillac
- Intensive training with little space required
- Many exercises can be done while standing – good for balance
Who is it for? Perfect for advanced users and small spaces. Also useful as a complement to the reformer.
d) Pilates Barrel (Spine Corrector & Ladder Barrel)
Barrel- shaped devices for mobilizing and strengthening the torso. Particularly effective for stretching the spine and opening the chest.
- Promotes flexibility
- Effective for abdominal and back muscles
- Helps with posture correction and tension
- Useful in therapy and athletic training
For whom? Useful for back pain, tension, and posture training. It's also often used in athletic training.
e) Small appliances & accessories
In addition to the large Pilates equipment, there are numerous additions:
- Pilates roller: for balance, fascia work and stability training
- Magic Circle : to intensify mat exercises for legs, arms and core
- Therapy balls, resistance bands , balance pads : for coordination, mobilization and deep muscles
These small devices are particularly suitable for training at home because they are space-saving and versatile.
3. Pilates equipment in the home studio: What do I really need?
If you want to train at home, you should consider space, budget and training goal:
- Beginners often benefit from a mat, roller, circle, and bands. A structured introduction is often possible with just a small set.
- Advanced users can upgrade to a reformer or chair to train more specifically for strength and control.
- Therapeutic exercisers also ideally use barrel or Cadillac exercises, especially for chronic conditions or after operations.
Space-saving options:
- Reformer with folding mechanism
- Combination devices, e.g. B. Chair with integrated barrel
- Modular models
Budget tip: High-quality small accessories are often cheaper than entry-level devices, but just as effective when used correctly.
4. What should you look for when buying?
Several factors play a role when purchasing Pilates equipment:
- Quality & workmanship : Pay attention to stable frame constructions (wood or aluminum), high-quality spring systems and durable covers.
- Adjustment options : Equipment should be adaptable to different body sizes and exercise types.
- Transport & Storage : Especially important for home gyms – wheels, folding functions and a small footprint make the difference.
- Accessories included: Ropes, loops, posters or access to online courses can be a great added value.
- Manufacturer & Support : Reputable brands usually offer better customer service and longer spare parts availability.
Tip : If you travel a lot, it's worth taking a look at portable reformer versions.
5. Pilates equipment in studio use
In professional Pilates studios or rehabilitation centers, several devices are usually combined:
- Reformer for group or individual training
- Cadillac for rehabilitation and advanced training
- Chair and barrel as a supplement for focus exercises
- Small equipment for group courses or additional programs
A clear advantage in the studio: Trainers can optimally adjust the equipment to the participants and provide individual instruction. The strength of the method is also evident in cases of chronic complaints or in the preventative area.
For physiotherapy, the integration of Pilates equipment can enable new therapeutic approaches – especially for posture problems, back pain and post-operative mobilization.
Conclusion: Which Pilates equipment is right for you?
Pilates equipment offers a new dimension of training—more variety, greater body awareness, and more targeted exercises. The right equipment depends on your training goals, space, and budget.
For beginners, a compact set consisting of a mat, roller, and circle is often sufficient. Those looking for long-term, varied and effective training will be happy with a reformer or chair. Studios, therapists, and advanced users will find a professional setup with the Cadillac, Barrel, and additional accessories .
If you're setting up your home gym or planning a professional studio, it's worth taking a closer look at high-quality equipment. And if you're looking for a balanced, effective Pilates experience, reformers and other equipment are the ideal complement to your mat.
