If you’re looking to open a Pilates studio—or upgrade your current equipment—the reformer you choose can significantly shape the experience of your clients and the reputation of your studio. Studio-grade Pilates reformers are a long-term investment, and with so many trusted names in the market, it’s essential to understand the strengths of each.
In this article, we’ll compare three major options for studio reformers:
✅ Balanced Body,
✅ Merrithew (STOTT Pilates), and
✅ PersonalHour’s Nano Elite Plus.
Each of these brands offers professional-grade quality, but they differ in design philosophy, pricing, and the type of clientele they best serve.
🥇 Balanced Body® Reformers: The Industry Standard
Balanced Body has long been considered a leader in the Pilates equipment space. Founded in the U.S., the company has been producing Pilates machines for over 40 years and has become a go-to brand for instructor training programs, commercial studios, and rehabilitation centers.
Why it’s popular:
- Known for its precision-engineered aluminum and wood reformers
- Strong reputation for durability and instructor trust
- Widely used in certifications and Pilates schools
Top Models:
- Balanced Body Allegro®
- Studio Reformer®
Price Range: $4,000 – $7,000+
Ideal for: Established studios seeking proven, globally recognized equipment.
🥈 Merrithew™ (STOTT Pilates) Reformers: Functional Elegance
Merrithew, based in Canada, is best known for its STOTT Pilates training system and equipment. The company offers sleek, functional reformers known for their modular design and smooth ride. Merrithew machines are often used in physical therapy clinics due to their adaptability.
Why it’s popular:
- Integrated with the STOTT Pilates methodology
- Known for silent and durable rolling mechanisms
- Offers a wide range of accessories and modular towers
Top Models:
- SPX® Max Reformer
- V2 Max™ Plus Reformer
Price Range: $4,500 – $8,500+
Ideal for: STOTT-certified instructors or studios emphasizing rehabilitation and multi-use functionality.
🆕 Nano Elite Plus – PersonalHour: The Newest Contender in Studio Reformers
PersonalHour, a growing U.S.-based brand founded in Ohio, is quickly gaining attention for delivering studio-grade reformers at highly competitive prices. Their latest model, the Nano Elite Plus, is handcrafted from premium maple wood and has been praised for its smooth carriage glide, build quality, and elegant finish.
Though newer to the market, the Nano Elite Plus has impressed early adopters with features that exceed expectations—at less than half the price of some legacy brands.
Why it’s gaining traction:
- Crafted from durable maple wood with studio-level precision
- Offers 6-spring resistance and optional accessories for tower and jump board integration
- Designed to mimic the feel and function of top-tier studio reformers
- Manufactured with U.S. oversight, with a commitment to affordability and accessibility
Key Benefits:
- Elegant wooden frame adds warmth and character to studio spaces
- Custom options available for color, spring type, and accessories
- Free access to training materials via the PersonalHour app
Price Range: ~$2,500 – $3,200
Explore Nano Elite Plus
Ideal for: New and growing studios that want premium reformers with a boutique aesthetic, without the hefty price tag.
✅ Final Comparison: Which Reformer Should You Choose for Your Studio?
| Brand | Price Range | Build Material | Ideal For | Known For |
| Balanced Body | $4,000–$7,000+ | Wood/Aluminum | Large studios & institutions | Industry standard, durability |
| Merrithew | $4,500–$8,500+ | Aluminum/Composite | STOTT-trained instructors | Rehab-friendly, silent ride |
| Nano Elite Plus | $2,500–$3,200 | Maple Wood | New & boutique studios | Studio quality at half the cost |
🧘♀️ Conclusion
Whether you’re opening your first studio or scaling an existing one, choosing the right reformer is about finding a balance between functionality, aesthetics, price, and trust.
- If you’re looking for a legacy brand with deep market trust, Balanced Body is the classic choice.
- If your studio leans into rehabilitation or the STOTT Pilates method, Merrithew offers unmatched adaptability.
- If you want modern craftsmanship, a studio-worthy experience, and price accessibility, Nano Elite Plus is a serious contender—delivering exceptional quality for a fraction of the price.
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