Product: Allegro Pilates Performer
Manufacturer: Balanced Body, Inc.
Price: $2695.00

Product Description

The Pilates Allegro Reformer is the most versatile reformer on the market. It offers all of the features of a Studio Reformer plus it folds down flat and stacks for convenient storage.

The Allegro uses an 8-wheel suspension system for a smooth, quiet ride. An extra-wide, padded footbar adjusts to four vertical positions and four horizontal positions to accommodate people of all heights. Other features include: 3-position headrest that provides comfort and support for the neck, swivel pulleys for variable angles of resistance, a built-in standing platform with non-skid finish, padded shoulder rests that adjust to two widths, and ropes that adjust quickly and easily with nautical cam cleats.

The Pilates Allegro is ideal for home, studio or club use. The machine includes a free copy of the acclaimed Allegro Level 1 workout video. In the 30-minute Introductory Workout, you’ll learn basic movement principles of Reformer exercises. Then, you’ll progress to Level 1, where you’ll integrate core control, correct breathing, and proper alignment with smooth, continuous movements for all the major muscle groups.

Consumer Reviews

From Amazon.com

“This has easily become one of “our” best ever purchases. My husband bought this as a a birthday gift for me and now we have to fight some nights for who will use it first. I have taken private ($75 an hour session) and group reformer classes ($30 an hour session x5 in a class) locally, but needed to use more than once a week which is hard to do with the pricey costs. We bought the risers too, since I like being a little off the ground when exercising…” – K.Romero

“Have used the Stott Reformer and another wood-based reformer. Love the Allegro reformer best. Its easily movable, easy to setup and feels more solidly build.” – Jeffrey Kok

Average Consumer Rating:  5/5

Where to Buy: Allegro Pilates Performer at Amazon.com

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Product: Stamina AeroPilates Pro XP 557
Manufacturer: Stamina Products, Inc.
Price: $1099.00 – $1299.00

Product Description

The Stamina Aero Pilates Pro XP 557 Pilates Reformer is an in-home, commercial grade pilates machine. It consists of a spring system with different resistance levels set up on a platform that you can lay on, sit on or do various other exercises from. Simply push off from the free form cardio rebounder while lying on your back for additional cardiovascular exercise benefits.

The Stamina Aero Pilates Pro XP 557 Pilates Reformer was constructed to be four inches longer than traditional reformers. The benefit of this length increase is that it will accommodate most heights in reference to Pilates exercise needs.

The Cardio Rebounder fits in holes at the base of the machine and functions like a trampoline. The Rebounder allows you to “jump” while lying down on the reformer, so that users of any fitness level can use the Rebounder safely and effectively. The cardio workout is gentle to your joints and connective tissue, and yet allows you to reach and maintain your target heart rate as effectively as with a treadmill. You can turn your feet in or out to hit different muscle groups and reach hard to access thigh, hip, and waist muscles. The Rebounder can be taken on and off the reformer easily.

Additional AeroPilates Pro XP 557 features include:

• Longer rails than traditional reformers
• Made of commercial steel
• Steel springs provide resistance for exercises
• The ropes, straps and handgrips are adjustable
• Universal size to fit most users
• Performs over 100 exercises to tone and shape the entire body
• Quiet, ultra-smooth rollers and gliders for a safe, effective workout

Consumer Reviews

From Amazon.com

“This machine is great for all the pilates work, just like what I have used at the pilates studio and I love the trampoline rebounder. It’s like running in the sand and getting an ab workout at the same time. Very easy on my knees. I love it. My belly’s flattening out and I am getting the same amount of cardio that I was getting on the treadmill, but without the pounding and jarring.”

From Become.com

“I LOVE this pilates machine! It was relatively easy to put together – it took me about an hour. the instructions were clear and easy to follow. I like the video and the exercise map. I feel very comfortable on the machine….I would say I am as comfortable on this as I was on the one at the gym! It is great!”

From Buzzillions.com

“This is a great reformer for the money…I can do all the exercises I did at the gym. It is sturdy, glides smoothly and you feel that it is really solid beneath you. The rebounder attachment gives a good cardio element to the workout. I am really glad I bought it.”

AeroPilates Pro XP 557 Pros

• Comfortable
• Durable
• Non-slip
• Easy to use

AeroPilates Pro XP 557 Cons

• Side rail seam
• Very heavy to move

Average Consumer Rating: 4.5/5

The Bottom Line

The Stamina AeroPilates Pro XP557 is for the person who takes their home Pilates reformer workout seriously and who wants to take the traditional Pilates workout to the next level with the addition of cardio. You’ll lose weight and tone the hips, thighs, and abdominals! Using the AeroPilates Pro is the safest, most effective way to perform Pilates exercises without a licensed instructor, and with the included videos, anyone can learn to use the machine.

Where to Buy: AeroPilates Pro XP557 at Amazon

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Product Description

Bring your Pilates routine out of the expensive studio and into your living room with the Pilates Power Gym reformer. Outfitted with a sturdy carbon-steel frame that can hold up to 300 pounds, the Power Gym will help firm, tone, sculpt, and define your calves, thighs, hips, abs, shoulders, arms, and back. In short, there’s no better way to create fabulous Pilates arms, long and lean Pilates legs, and a perfect Pilates behind.

Specifically designed to eliminate the Pilates learning curve, the Power Gym offers such features as multiple incline levels, four variable resistance cords, and quick-change height adjustments, helping you build strength and tone your muscles regardless of your current fitness level. Whether you’re an absolute beginner or a Pilates pro, the Power Gym is a terrific choice. Other features unique to the Power Gym include padded handles for comfort and adjustable foot straps.

The Power Gym also comes with a workout DVD with two separate workouts: one that tells you how to create a long, lean, sexy body and a second focused on building strong, defined muscles. And thanks to the bundled Healthy Eating Guide, you’ll have access to a bunch of easy-to-follow meal plans to help accelerate your results. Perhaps best of all for users with small apartments or homes, the Power Gym rolls away for easy storage in a closet or corner. The Power Gym measures 56 by 17.75 by 13 inches (W x H x D), weighs 61 pounds, and carries a 90-day warranty.

Consumer Reviews

From Amazon.com

I hate exercising but know I need to and this is the first piece of equipment that I’ve ever enjoyed using. I love this machine. It is super easy to adjust and appropriate for all levels. I am 6 feet tall and have no problem fitting on the glideboard. I can do all of the exercises in the book and workout for about 45 min or so and not hate it. You can tell your muscles are changing, but it’s not so horrible or painful that you avoid it. I cannot say enough good things about this machine. I have bought everything and never used anything for longer than a day or two. I believe this is the only toning machine that anyone should ever need and it is a great price!! I love it!!
-  Tracy E. Guerrero

“The Pilates Power Gym was a wonderful find. Because of permanent injuries following an accident a few years ago I can’t do a lot of walking nor can I easily get up and down to do Pilates on the floor. This product is just high enough off the floor that I can easily get on and off it and change positions. It is well-made and being fully assembled is one of the selling points for me. I recommend this Reformer. It is a little heavy for me to move around right now, but I think the strength training exercises you can do with it will resolve that problem soon.”
- Kayell “Avid Reader”

From Buzzillions.com

“The Pilates Power Gym certainly is a compact weight training/Pilates tool. However, for many people it is to narrow and/or short. It is much better for upper body pulling motions than pushing motions. As a certified personal trainer and Pilates Instructor, I have found it is ok for anyone who is under 5′10″ and at a healthy weight to slightly overweight. It is limited on some of the Pilates exercises as it is not as long as a reformer and it also has a different style of cords for the resistance. Overall, it is ok for the money, but do not expect it to be a true reformer.”
- Jessica the Trainer

“I use it for pilates and it works great. The different resistance levels allow me to comfortably perform each position. I have a small frame and the bed of the gym is a little narrow so I have to be careful when positioning myself.”
- CLA the beginner

From HSN.com

My favorite workout! / Laura, CO
“This is a great machine! It’’s very smooth, super easy to use and you can work out your entire body. The great thing about this is that it only takes about 20 minutes a day and does not stress your body. I have five kids and no time to go and work out, this was my answer. I lost inches within 4 weeks! The machine stores away easily and in a small space. I highly recommend the Pilates Power Gym to men and women!”

Big Workout in a Small Package! / Lynn, SC
“This machine is excellent for targeting all of the muscles in your body. You really feel it when you”re done. The video is an excellent instructional for those who are new to pilates and want to make the most of working out on this machine. Definitely money well-spent!”

Pilates Power Gym Pros

• Easy to use
• Easy setup
• Sturdy

Pilates Power Gym Cons

• Noisy
• Too Narrow

Average Consumer Rating: 4.5/5

The Bottom Line

For anyone wanting to accomplish a lot in a small space, the Pilates Power Gym is a good investment. The DVD workout video provides good instructions for doing the exercises. However, the small size may make it tough for taller or larger-build users.

Where to Buy

• Pilates Power Gym on Shop.com
• Pilates Power Gym on Amazon

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Product Description

The Stamina AeroPilates Reformer gives you a solid Pilates machine with the added element of a rebounding platform for horizontal aerobic rebounding action. The AeroPilates machine combines aerobics with classic Pilates strength and flexibility exercises. For those who are dying to combine an aerobic workout with their Pilates routine, the AeroPilates is a great tool for accomplishing just that. The rebounding footboard on the AeroPilates allows you to safely and comfortably expand your Pilates workout.

The exercises provide a simple and non-impact, fat burning cardiovascular workout. Simply lying on your back and rebounding off the Cardio Jump Board puts you on your way to achieving your weight loss goals. The AeroPilates machine is also elevated for easy mounting and dismounting. The ultra-smooth rollers bear the weight of the sliding carriage as you move back and forth for a low-impact workout.

Consumer Reviews

From Buzzillions.com:

“I’ve owned this machine for 6 years now, and it works as beautifully today as it did the first time. In fact, I own both this pilates machine and a $200 pilates machine purchased so family members can work-out together (such as my Grandson & myself . If you are looking for long-lasting, wonderful quality, treat yourself to this pilates machine! It is simply the best. I have used it on beautiful wood floors, on ceramic, even outdoors in my lanai in the spring; NEVER has a floor been damaged by the thick leg coverings. No mat necessary! … It’s easy to assemble, portable yet very well built, and ALWAYS my personal pick between my two machines! The stand is strong, the cardio bounce a plus, & it’s so easy to just “relax” & tone! I look great, feel great, and love how this purchase has improved my life for 6 years now! Awesome!!! If you’ve got the money to buy the best, you’ve found it!”
-  Gorgeous Grandmother, Orlando, FL

“This is a great machine to work out. Builds the body frame for both men and women. The rebounder is wonderful for cardio.”
- Workout Steve, Las Vegas, NV

From Amazon.com

“This reformer is a great value for the money. I regularly do pilates at my gym with a personal trainer, so I am used to being on some of the most expensive machines. When I decided to get a reformer for my home, I was very concerned about how well one of the less expensive machines would functions, particularly because I’m not a small woman. I have fallen in love with this machine. It was easy to put together. I did it by myself in 15-20 minutes. Since receiving the machine, I’ve used it almost ever day and have no complaints. I feel comfortable that it will hold up to my continued use.”
-KellyMac (Boston)

“This is a good sturdy quality piece of equipment. I was afraid it might not be stable and function like some of the larger or more expensive reformers. This definitely holds it’s own and I’m glad I got this one because I can keep it by the wall and then easily slide it over for the workout. All of the parts work smoothly. As far as the trampoline in the lying down position, I need to start slowly or I get a little nauseous. Most importantly, I have a herniated disc in my center back and the Pilates exercises are helping me enormously. I highly recommend it.”
-Kelly J. Steinmetz (Florida)

Stamina AeroPilates Pros

• Comfortable
• Non-slip
• Durable
• High quality
• Long-lasting
• Portable

Stamina AeroPilates Cons

• Price

The Bottom Line

Pilates exercises can dramatically reshape hips, thighs and butt, increase abdominal strength and muscle elongation and improve spinal alignment. If you want to give Pilates a try or are looking for a machine that will allow you to take your Pilates routine to that next level, the Stamina AeroPilates Reformer with Cardio Rebounder is a great choice.

Average Consumer Rating: 4.5/5

Where to Buy: Stamina AeroPilates on eBay, Stamina AeroPilates on Amazon

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