Inside the Pilates Reformer: What Each Part Does

Though it may look unfamiliar at first, the Pilates Reformer is a precisely engineered piece of equipment designed to support strength, flexibility, alignment, and control. Whether you’re a beginner or an instructor, understanding the anatomy of a Reformer helps you get the most out of every session.

Let’s break down the key components that make the Reformer such a powerful and versatile piece of equipment.

1. The Carriage – Your Moving Platform

The carriage is the padded surface that glides back and forth along the frame. You’ll lie, kneel, sit, or stand on it depending on the exercise.

Function: Moves in response to your body’s effort, creating instability that activates deep stabilizers.
Benefit: Improves balance, control, and total-body coordination.

2. The Springs – Resistance & Support

Located beneath the carriage, springs provide the adjustable resistance that defines Reformer Pilates. They typically come in different colors indicating various levels of tension.

Function: Add resistance for pushing and pulling movements, replacing traditional weights.
Benefit: Builds strength in a joint-friendly way and allows for progressive training.

Heavier springs add more resistance; lighter springs increase challenge to stability and control.

3. The Footbar – Foundation for Movement

The footbar is the adjustable bar located at the front of the Reformer. It’s where you press your feet (or hands) to initiate many exercises.

Function: Serves as a stable surface to push against, controlling movement of the carriage.

Benefit: Helps align the body properly and engage key muscle groups like the core, glutes, and hamstrings.
Note: Most Reformers have adjustable footbar settings to accommodate different body types and exercise angles.

4. The Straps – For Arms and Legs

Connected through pulleys, straps are used for arm and leg movements in a wide range of positions.

Function: Extend range of motion, encourage precision, and provide resistance.
Benefit: Strengthens limbs while also improving flexibility, coordination, and symmetry.

5. The Pulleys – Smooth Range Control

Pulleys direct the movement of the straps, allowing for smooth, multidirectional motion.

Function: Provide controlled resistance through different planes of movement.
Benefit: Promotes functional strength, shoulder stability, and fluid joint motion.

6. The Stopper – Range Limiter for Safety

Also known as a gearbar stopper or shoulder stopper, this component controls how far the carriage can travel.

Function: Sets the maximum distance the carriage moves during exercises.
Benefit: Helps prevent hyperextension and accommodates users of various heights or physical needs.

7. The Jumpboard – Cardio in a New Form

The jumpboard attaches to the foot of the Reformer and enables cardio-based movements.

Function: Allows low-impact, horizontal “jumping” in a lying position.
Benefit: Builds leg strength, core control, and cardiovascular endurance—all without stressing the joints.

8. The Pilates Box – Expanding Your Movement Options

The box is a padded accessory that sits on top of the carriage to support a wider variety of positions.

Function: Supports side-lying, seated, or prone exercises.
Benefit: Adds comfort and enables spinal extension, oblique work, and more advanced flow sequences.

Note: Most Gymfrog Reformers come equipped with a Pilates box by default, making it easier for users to access a full range of exercises right out of the box.

Conclusion: A Precision System for Whole-Body Movement

From the footbar to the box, every part of a Pilates Reformer plays a distinct role in delivering a safe, effective, and intelligent workout. It’s not just about movement—it's about mindful, functional strength.

Train Smarter with a Reformer Built for You

At Gymfrog, we provide foldable, studio-grade Reformers that include all the essential parts—footbar, carriage, springs, jumpboard, box, stopper, and more.
Discover the model that matches your space and your goals.

👉 [Shop Now at Gymfrog]