What brand of reformer does Club Pilates use?

As someone who’s both practiced and worked in the pilates equipment industry for years, one of the questions I get asked the most is: What brand of Reformer does Club Pilates use—and is it really the best out there? It’s a great question, especially if you’re thinking about buying a machine for home use or outfitting your studio.

Club Pilates and the Allegro 2

ReformerLet’s start with the facts: Club Pilates primarily uses Balanced Body Reformers, specifically the Allegro 2 Reformer. These machines are known for their smooth glide, adjustable resistance, and durable build, making them ideal for the high volume of daily classes Club Pilates runs. The Allegro 2 also integrates well with tower systems and springboards, allowing studios to offer a wider variety of classes on a single piece of equipment.

Is Balanced Body the Only Good Option?

But here’s the thing—while Balanced Body is certainly a leader in the industry, it’s not your only option, especially if you’re not running a major franchise. In fact, I often recommend looking beyond the mainstream when you're considering a commercial pilates reformer for personal or boutique use.

There are other top-tier brands worth exploring, like Merrithew with their sleek, studio-grade SPX Max Reformers and Peak Pilates, which offers more traditional, handcrafted wood frame options that look as good as they perform. If aesthetics and quiet performance matter to you, especially in a home setting, Peak is a favorite among enthusiasts.

The Gymfrog Advantage

And then there’s Gymfrog, a brand I’ve come to trust over time. While it may not be as widely known as the others yet, Gymfrog has carved out a niche by delivering high-quality Reformers that blend affordability with studio-level performance. I’ve personally used their Reformers in both commercial and home settings and have been impressed by the attention to detail: silent carriage movement, stable aluminum frames, and compatibility with tower and box accessories.

What really stands out to me with Gymfrog is the level of customization they offer. Whether you need a compact Reformer for a small studio or want a more luxurious full-sized model with tower integration, there are plenty of flexible options. For clients setting up their first in-home studio, I often suggest looking into Gymfrog’s foldable or vertical storage-friendly units—they save space without compromising on functionality.

Do You Really Need What Club Pilates Uses?

So, do you need the same Reformer Club Pilates uses? Not necessarily. If you’re running group classes with high foot traffic, then yes—a Balanced Body Allegro 2 might be the gold standard. But if you’re practicing solo or with a personal trainer or starting a small business, you might find better value—and even better design—by broadening your search.

What to Look for in a Commercial Pilates Reformer

Here are a few things to consider when choosing a commercial Pilates Reformer:

Durability: Will the machine hold up with daily use? Aluminum frames and quality springs are key.

Comfort: Look for padded platforms, adjustable headrests, and a smooth-gliding carriage.

Tower Compatibility: If you want to expand your workout possibilities, make sure the Reformer supports tower attachments.

Size and Storage: Consider your space. Some Reformers fold up or store vertically—great for home gyms.

Budget: Top brands can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $6,000+. There are excellent machines in the mid-range, too, like those from Gymfrog, which provide great value.

Final Thoughts

As a Pilates practitioner, I’ve worked on Reformers across nearly every brand. While Balanced Body has earned its reputation, I encourage people to explore their options. The right Reformer is the one that fits your space, your goals, and your budget—not just the one used by a franchise.

So, if you’re in the market for a commercial pilates reformer, do your research, compare features, and don’t overlook the up-and-coming names. You might be surprised by what brands like Gymfrog are offering—quiet machines, thoughtful engineering, and designs that suit modern Pilates lovers.

After all, your equipment should support the journey you want to take—not just follow the crowd.