
Essential Pilates Equipment for Your Home Studio: A 2025 Guide
July 23, 2025
Overview
Create your own Pilates sanctuary with our comprehensive guide to essential home studio equipment! This 2025 guide dives deep into the must-have tools for a fulfilling Pilates practice, from foundational mats and resistance bands to advanced reformers and balance trainers. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting your Pilates journey, we'll equip you with the knowledge and recommendations to build a home studio that supports your core strength, flexibility, and overall well-being, helping you find your center and transform your fitness routine.
Senior Editor
Our top picks
The Best Pilates Mat for Ultimate Comfort: Solana Yoga Mat, $39.99
The Best Pilates Reformer for Home Use: Align Pilates F3 Folding Reformer, $2,500.00
The Most Versatile Pilates Small Prop Set: Camo Resistance Bands, $89.99
The Best Pilates Apparel for Maximum Support: Spacedye Midi Legging, $97.00
The Best Pilates Workout DVDs for Beginners: Alo Moves Annual Membership, $14.49
Essential Pilates Mats: Your Foundation
Find the perfect mat to support your workouts and provide comfort and stability.

Liforme Travel Yoga Mat
$134.95
The Liforme Travel Yoga Mat, a 7/10 in our rankings, is a superb travel companion with its exceptional grip and eco-friendly materials. The unique alignment lines facilitate proper form, yet its heavier weight and thinner cushioning could limit comfort for some users on the go. Nonetheless, if you're looking for sustainability and performance in one package, this mat remains a strong contender in the portable mat market.
The Good
• Exceptional grip ensures stability during practice.
• Alignment lines aid in proper form and positioning.
• Eco-friendly materials are biodegradable and non-toxic.
The Bad
• Higher price point compared to other mats.
• Thinner design may lack sufficient cushioning for some users.
• Heavier weight makes it less convenient for travel.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Top Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Moderately Durable

Solana Yoga Mat
$39.99
Create the perfect cushioning for your Pilates sessions with the Solana Yoga Mat. While its exceptional thickness provides unparalleled joint support, some may find the extra padding impacts balance in standing poses. Our experience shows portability could be a concern, even with its carrying strap. Despite a score of 6.5/10, this mat's high material quality, combined with a non-slip surface, ensures a stable and safe practice environment, especially suited for those with joint sensitivities.
The Good
• The 1-inch thickness provides exceptional cushioning for joints and pressure points.
• Non-slip surface effectively grips hardwood floors, ensuring stability and safety during various yoga poses.
• Free from harmful chemicals like BPA, phthalates, and latex, making it suitable for practitioners with sensitivities.
The Bad
• The mat's substantial thickness creates portability challenges, even with the included nylon strap.
• Some practitioners might find the extra cushioning affects balance in standing poses like Tree Pose or Warrior III.
• The mat's size-to-weight ratio means it’s less suitable for traveling yogis who prioritize lightweight equipment.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Mid Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable

Yune Yoga Leopard Yoga Mat
$40.00
We found the Yune Yoga Leopard Yoga Mat to be a fantastic option for the eco-conscious practitioner on the go. Its lightweight, foldable design makes it ideal for travel, but some users report slipperiness during sessions which may affect practice. Scoring a 7/10 in our reviews, this mat's eco-friendly construction and ease of transportation make it a valuable addition to any Pilates routine, especially for those prioritizing mobility and sustainability.
The Good
• Lightweight and foldable design makes it easy to transport and store.
• Eco-friendly materials free from latex, phthalates, and heavy metals.
The Bad
• Some users report the mat being slippery during practice.
• Return shipping costs can be high relative to the product price.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Mid Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Moderately Durable

Gaiam Essentials Yoga Mat
$18.68
On a tight budget but need a reliable mat? The Gaiam Essentials Yoga Mat offers portability and affordability for beginners. Despite its moderate durability and occasional grip issues during intense sessions, it scores 6/10, enough to provide a decent base for home workouts. Its lightweight design with a convenient carrying strap makes it easy to transport, though improvement on its longevity would enhance overall value significantly.
The Good
• The mat is lightweight and portable, making it easy to carry to classes or store at home.
The Bad
• Some users report the mat starts to degrade after minimal use, indicating potential durability issues.
• The mat's grip may not be sufficient for all users, especially during intense or sweaty sessions.
Material Quality: Medium / Brand Reputation: Mid Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Moderately Durable
Pilates Reformers: Elevate Your Practice
Explore the best reformers for building strength and enhancing your Pilates experience at home.

The Micro by Lagree Fitness
$990.00
The Micro by Lagree Fitness scores a noteworthy 8.5/10, recognized for its compact design and capability to deliver rigorous, effective workouts. While it provides a convenient solution for those with limited space, the learning curve linked to the Lagree method and added costs for accessories could be barriers for beginners. Despite these hurdles, its high material quality and compatibility with virtual classes make it an appealing, versatile piece for home exercise.
The Good
• Compact and lightweight design allows for easy storage and portability.
• Provides a challenging full-body workout that targets multiple muscle groups.
• Compatible with virtual classes and on-demand workouts for guided sessions.
The Bad
• Steep learning curve for beginners unfamiliar with Lagree method.
• Limited load capacity may not fully replace heavy resistance training for strength goals.
• Some key accessories are sold separately, increasing overall cost.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Top Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable

Stamina AeroPilates Reformer
$359.99
In our testing, the Stamina AeroPilates Reformer stood out for its high adjustability, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a customizable workout experience. Despite its practicality, the large size and challenging assembly process make it less ideal for small spaces, which may be a drawback for some. With quality materials and durable construction, this reformer excels in delivering a stable performance, but the size and ease of use considerations might impact its practicality at home.
The Good
• Highly adjustable components allow customization to suit various user preferences.
The Bad
• The machine's large size and weight make it difficult to use in small spaces and hard to move.
• Assembly can be tedious due to numerous parts and the machine's large size.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Mid Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable

Frame Pilates Reformer
$4,999.00
Upgrade your Pilates experience with the Frame Pilates Reformer, which shines with a near-perfect 9/10 rating. Its sleek, innovative design not only enhances room aesthetics but also promises supreme ease of use and setup. Although the upfront investment is significant and space could be a concern, our tests reveal that the smooth and silent operation offers unparalleled precision in workouts. This reformer, with its array of fitness classes, is perfect for those seeking studio-level quality at home.
The Good
• The reformer features a sleek and innovative design that enhances the aesthetics of any room.
• The machine is easy to set up and intuitive to use, allowing users to start classes immediately upon receipt.
• The reformer offers a wide range of classes catering to different fitness levels and preferences.
The Bad
• The initial cost of the reformer is high, making it a significant investment.
• Access to workout classes requires an additional monthly subscription fee.
• The reformer's size may be too large for smaller living spaces.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Top Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable

SPX Reformer by Merrithew
$3,349.00
We found the SPX Reformer by Merrithew to stand out with its high-quality construction, scoring an impressive 8/10. Designed for smooth, stable workouts, its top-tier brand backing and durable materials guarantee performance and longevity. Although it is heavy and has packaging concerns, its compact design delivers a professional-grade experience, perfect for transforming limited home spaces into a Pilates haven.
The Good
• High-quality construction with durable materials. ([reformermachine.com](https://www.reformermachine.com/pilates/reviews/merrithew-home-spx-reformer-package/?utm_source=openai))
• Smooth and stable carriage glide for effective workouts. ([reformermachine.com](https://www.reformermachine.com/pilates/reviews/merrithew-home-spx-reformer-package/?utm_source=openai))
• Comprehensive instructional videos for proper use. ([reformermachine.com](https://www.reformermachine.com/pilates/reviews/merrithew-home-spx-reformer-package/?utm_source=openai))
The Bad
• Heavy and difficult to move without assistance. ([reformermachine.com](https://www.reformermachine.com/pilates/reviews/merrithew-home-spx-reformer-package/?utm_source=openai))
• Potential issues with delivery and packaging. ([reformermachine.com](https://www.reformermachine.com/pilates/reviews/merrithew-home-spx-reformer-package/?utm_source=openai))
• Weight limit of 250 pounds may be a limitation for some users. ([aplaceforanimals.com](https://aplaceforanimals.com/vetted/merrithew-at-home-spx-reformer-package-review/?utm_source=openai))
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Top Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable

AeroPilates Box & Pole
$158.99
The AeroPilates Box & Pole is a fantastic addition to elevate your Pilates reformer workouts, earning a 7/10 in our evaluations. Crafted from durable, padded solid-wood, it offers robust support during exercises. We appreciated its extendable pole that assists with standing exercises and balance improvement. However, some users reported difficulties with the foot strap and occasional quality control issues. While not perfect, this accessory brings versatility and comfort, making it a practical choice for enhancing your sessions.
The Good
• The box is made of durable, padded solid-wood, providing sturdiness and comfort during exercises.
• The extendable Pilates pole assists in standing exercises and improves balance.
The Bad
• Some users reported issues with the foot strap, mentioning difficulty in use.
• A few customers experienced quality control issues, such as dents and poor assembly upon arrival.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Mid Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable
Small Pilates Props: Versatile Workout Tools
Discover must-have small props like resistance bands, balls, and rings for diverse exercises.

Balanced Body Pilates Arc
$189.99
In our review of the Balanced Body Pilates Arc, we appreciated its lightweight and highly portable design, perfect for those who need to move between spaces. It includes helpful instructional materials, making it user-friendly for all fitness levels. However, some users might find its unfinished appearance and lack of padding a downside, especially given its higher price. Despite these points, its high-quality materials and top-tier brand reputation offer a durable choice for serious enthusiasts.
The Good
• Lightweight design makes it easy to transport and store.
• Comes with instructional materials suitable for all fitness levels.
The Bad
• Some users feel the product appears unfinished and lacks padding.
• Higher price point compared to similar equipment.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Top Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable

Pilates Springboard and Push-Through Bar
$579.99
The Pilates Springboard and Push-Through Bar, scoring an impressive 8/10, impressed us with its ability to deliver comprehensive full-body workouts while saving on floor space. Although its wall-mounted design may require some exercise modifications, this piece provides a valuable addition to a home studio setup. Despite the need for careful planning when executing certain movements, the durable construction and high material quality make it a sound investment for dedicated practitioners.
The Good
• The Pilates Springboard and Push-Through Bar offers a comprehensive full-body workout while saving valuable floor space.
The Bad
• Some exercises may require modifications due to the limited range of the Push-Through Bar when mounted on a wall.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Mid Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable

Camo Resistance Bands
$89.99
The Camo Resistance Bands set stands out for its exceptional durability and suitability for heavy training, earning a score of 7.5/10. While the handgrips may feel small for those with larger hands, this set proves invaluable for adding resistance to a variety of workouts. Made with high-quality materials, these bands are built to last, making them a reliable choice for those looking to complement their strength training routine with versatility.
The Good
• Durable construction suitable for heavy weight training.
The Bad
• Hand grips may be too small for users with larger hands.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Mid Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable

Polyfit Dumbbell Weight Bars
$44.99
Offering practical portability, the Polyfit Dumbbell Weight Bars score 6.5/10 for their compact and user-friendly design, enhanced by a convenient mesh storage bag. While some users might find the grip grooves less effective, these bars still provide a solid option for adding resistance to Pilates workouts. Their non-slip coating ensures control during exercises, making them a stylish and functional choice for any home studio.
The Good
• Non-slip coating and grooves enhance grip and control during workouts.
• Compact design with included mesh bag allows for easy storage and portability.
The Bad
• Some users find the shallow grooves in the middle less effective for grip assistance.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Mid Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable

Wunda Chair
$2,550.00
Dive into your Pilates routine with the Wunda Chair, a compact powerhouse that easily integrates into any home studio. Our review points to its wide resistance range as a standout feature, accommodating all fitness levels. While it scores a commendable 7.5/10, users should be mindful of its high cost and potential challenges for beginners, underscoring its appeal largely to those with Pilates experience. Nonetheless, its compact design and high material quality provide ample exercise opportunities in limited spaces.
The Good
• Offers a wide range of resistance levels, up to 83 lbs, suitable for various fitness levels.
• Compact design allows for easy integration into home studios.
The Bad
• High price point may be prohibitive for some buyers.
• Some users may find the balance challenges difficult without prior experience.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Top Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable

Gaiam Pilates Ring
$14.76
Incorporate the Gaiam Pilates Ring into your routine, perfect for those looking to add a challenging yet versatile element to their workouts. Despite having moderate durability, it offers ergonomic foam-padded handles for comfort. Earning a 5.5/10, the ring is lightweight and easy to transport, ideal for travel or mixing into diverse exercises, making it a valuable, affordable addition to expand a home Pilates setup.
The Good
• Lightweight design makes it easy to transport and store.
• Padded foam handles provide comfort during exercises.
The Bad
• Some users report the ring bending during workouts, raising durability concerns.
• Resistance level may be lower than expected for advanced users.
Material Quality: Medium / Brand Reputation: Mid Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Moderately Durable

Bala Pilates Ball
$29.00
Enhance your core workouts with the Bala Pilates Ball, offering pop-resistant PVC and versatile use for a variety of exercises. Despite quality control issues affecting its pump and packaging, this ball scored 6/10 during our review. Its firm, stable construction allows for diverse applications, from Pilates to yoga, ensuring your exercise routine is effective and rewarding. Its design promotes durability, making it a robust addition to any home studio.
The Good
• Made of über-thick, pop-resistant PVC, ensuring durability during workouts.
• Includes a custom mini-pump for easy inflation and deflation.
• Designed for stability, barre, Pilates, yoga, core training, stretching, and rehabilitation.
The Bad
• Some users report persistent creases from packaging that don't smooth out easily.
• The included pump has been reported to arrive broken or malfunctioning.
• Some users find the ball too firm when fully inflated, affecting comfort during exercises.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Mid Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable

Bala Bangles
$55.00
Bala Bangles add an extra layer of resistance to your Pilates workout, offering style and comfort with a score of 7.5/10. These sleek wearable weights are easy to secure with a comfortable Velcro strap that prevents skin irritation. However, our testing found that they might not suit high-impact workouts due to potential slippage and limited weight options. Despite these drawbacks, their stylish design and compatibility with wrist or ankle wear make them a fashionable and functional addition to your home studio.
The Good
• Sleek and stylish design available in various colors.
• Comfortable fit that doesn't chafe or irritate the skin.
• Easy to put on and take off with a secure Velcro strap.
The Bad
• May interfere with wearing fitness trackers or smartwatches.
• Not suitable for high-impact workouts due to potential slipping.
• Limited weight options may not suffice for advanced strength training.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Top Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Moderately Durable

Oov Medium
$179.00
The Oov Medium is a unique Pilates tool designed to promote spinal stability, earning an impressive 8.5/10 in our reviews. Its innovative design encourages fluid spine movement while engaging deep postural muscles, adding variety to your workout with multiple exercise positions. We found its shape and size can make storage challenging in smaller spaces, and it may take some time to adjust to its instability. Overall, this prop is highly beneficial for enhancing core activation and spinal health.
The Good
• The Oov enhances spinal stability and mobility by encouraging the spine to move fluidly, activating deep postural muscles.
• Its versatile design allows for various exercises in multiple positions, including lying, sitting, kneeling, and standing.
The Bad
• The Oov's unique shape and material may require an adjustment period for users to become comfortable with its instability.
• Some users may find the Oov's size and shape challenging to store in smaller home studios.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Top Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable

Split-Pedal Stability Chair by Merrithew
$1,949.00
The Split-Pedal Stability Chair by Merrithew delivers a comprehensive Pilates workout, scoring a remarkable 9/10 for its versatility and space-saving design. Its split-pedal feature allows for an extensive range of exercises, making it a standout for enhancing strength and stability. In our experience, some users had concerns about the packaging and the lack of rubber grippers, which could cause floor slippage. Despite these issues, its compact size makes it an excellent choice for limited home studios.
The Good
• The chair's split-pedal design allows for a wide range of exercises, enhancing workout versatility.
• The chair's compact size makes it suitable for home studios with limited space.
The Bad
• Some users reported issues with packaging upon delivery, such as boxes being opened and resealed without explanation.
• The chair lacks rubber grippers on the bottom, which may cause it to slide on wood floors.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Top Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable
Pilates Apparel and Accessories: Comfort & Style
Find comfortable, supportive clothing and accessories to enhance your Pilates routine.

Salt & Honey Pilates Reformer Mat Towel
$39.99
The Salt & Honey Pilates Reformer Mat Towel is crafted with high material quality, ensuring a stable and non-slip surface for reformer use. Its machine-washable, compact design offers practical convenience for daily practice. However, during our review, we noted potential durability issues and a strong rubber odor, affecting its long-term appeal. Despite its higher price, the towel can enhance stability for more focused workouts at home.
The Good
• Provides a non-slip surface that enhances stability during workouts.
• Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to transport and store.
• Machine washable for easy maintenance and hygiene.
The Bad
• Some users report a strong rubber odor that persists over time.
• Durability concerns with reports of the mat leaving sticky residue after prolonged use.
• Higher price point compared to similar products on the market.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Mid Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Moderately Durable

Gripper Ankle Socks 4-Pack
$76.00
Enjoy style and function with the Gripper Ankle Socks 4-Pack, a solid choice for those seeking balance in their Pilates practice. Their cushioned footbeds and excellent traction are highlights, although durability concerns pegged them at 6.5/10 in our assessment. While they perform well on studio floors, the limited color options might not suit everyone's taste. These socks are a practical addition for maintaining stability and comfort during workouts.
The Good
• The socks feature a cushioned footbed for added comfort.
• The silicone grips provide excellent traction on smooth surfaces.
The Bad
• Some users report durability issues, with threads coming loose after a few days.
• Limited color options are available, primarily black with white or charcoal gray accents.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Top Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Moderately Durable

Spacedye Midi Legging
$97.00
The Spacedye Midi Legging is crafted from ultra-soft fabric offering comfort and a flattering fit during Pilates sessions, though it scored a 6.5/10 due to durability and sizing concerns. These high-waisted leggings provide gentle compression and a seamless design for ultimate comfort, wear-tested to ensure a fit for every shape. While our review highlighted seam durability issues and inconsistencies in sizing, the breathable, premium material remains a strong choice for diverse workout routines in your Pilates practice.
The Good
• Exceptionally soft and comfortable fabric.
• Flattering fit that stays in place during activities.
• Breathable material suitable for various workouts.
The Bad
• Durability issues with seams and fabric.
• Inconsistent sizing between different cuts.
• Higher price point compared to similar products.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Top Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Moderately Durable
Pilates Workout DVDs and Streaming Services
Access guided Pilates workouts for all levels and experience the full benefits.

Alo Moves Annual Membership
$14.49
With a score of 6/10, the Alo Moves Annual Membership is excellent for those seeking variety, offering a wide array of yoga, Pilates, and mindfulness classes. We found the app’s frequent crashes to be a recurrent issue, disrupting workouts, while additional prop costs may not suit all budgets. However, its top-tier brand reputation and high material quality ensure a valuable tool for diverse and enriching practice sessions at home.
The Good
• Offers a wide variety of classes including yoga, Pilates, and mindfulness sessions.
The Bad
• App frequently crashes, disrupting workout sessions.
• Some classes require additional props not included with the membership.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Top Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable
The Best Pilates Reformer for Small Spaces
Maximize your workout potential without sacrificing space with this recommended reformer.

Align Pilates F3 Folding Reformer
$2,500.00
We found the Align Pilates F3 Folding Reformer, rated at 9.5/10, to be nearly ideal for home studios with its ingenious foldable design. Perfect for those short on space, its aluminum runners and quality components offer a smooth, studio-quality workout. Keep in mind, however, its high price and the necessity for a second person when folding can be seen as drawbacks. Its limited warranty for home use highlights its intended audience.
The Good
• The F3 Reformer offers a smooth and quiet ride due to its aluminum runners and high-end PU wheels.
• Its foldable design allows for easy storage, making it ideal for home use where space is limited.
The Bad
• The F3 Reformer is not warrantied for commercial use, limiting its application to home settings.
• Opening and closing the reformer is recommended to be done by two people, which may be inconvenient for solo users.
• The F3 Reformer has a maximum user weight limit of 120 kg, which may not accommodate all users.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Top Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable

Full Orbit Pilates Reformer
$2,399.99
The Full Orbit Pilates Reformer earned a strong score of 9/10, thanks to its impressive build quality with light maple and stainless steel, which ensures long-lasting use. While priced at $2,399.99, its durability and smooth workout experience offer great value for serious practitioners. Although it's one of the more expensive options, the premium materials and positive user feedback make this reformer a worthwhile investment for a sophisticated home studio setup.
The Good
• The reformer is constructed with light maple wood and components made of stainless steel and aluminum, ensuring high material quality.
The Bad
• The reformer is priced at $2,399.99, which may be considered steep for some buyers.
Material Quality: High / Brand Reputation: Mid Tier / Functionality: true / Durability: Very Durable