Article: Do You Need a Reformer Tower?

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Aug 13, 2026Best Cadillac for Pilates

Do You Need a Reformer Tower?

I love a Cadillac session. When I train at studios I use the tower and the full frame, the roll down bar, the push through bar, the hanging straps, all of it. So when people ask me whether their home reformer needs a tower, they expect me to say yes. My real answer surprises them, and it might save you money and floor space too.

In this article

What a tower actually is
What it adds to a session
Why my home setup does not have one
Who should actually consider one
The best of both worlds
Frequently asked questions

What a tower actually is

A tower is a vertical frame at the end of a reformer that holds extra springs and bars, the roll down bar, push through bar and hanging loops. It borrows from the Cadillac, the big four poster machine you see in traditional studios. With a tower, some exercises that normally happen on the Cadillac can happen on your reformer, mostly guided spine work and supported stretching.

What it adds to a session

In a studio, I genuinely enjoy tower work. The push through bar gives a beautiful assisted stretch through the spine and shoulders, and the extra springs open up some lovely variations. But here is the honest part, tower exercises are a garnish, not the meal. The heart of reformer Pilates, footwork, straps, jumping, carriage work, lives entirely on the reformer itself. In a typical class, the tower might feature for a few minutes.

Why my home setup does not have one

At home I train on a reformer without a tower, and I have never once finished a session feeling short changed. Everything that builds strength and control is under me already. A tower also changes what the machine is, it becomes taller, heavier and permanent, which fights the whole reason I love a home reformer, that it folds away and gives me my space back. For a home practice, I would rather a beautiful reformer I use daily than a bigger machine I have to plan my room around.

Tower work is a garnish, not the meal. Everything that actually builds strength lives on the reformer itself.

Who should actually consider one

If you are a studio owner, or an instructor teaching clinical or traditional repertoire from home, a tower earns its place. The same goes if supported spine work is central to your practice for rehab reasons and your physio recommends it. For everyone else starting a home practice, my honest advice is to put the budget into the quality of the reformer, the springs and the wheels, because that is what you feel in every single rep.

The best of both worlds

My routine gives me everything. My own reformer at home for the everyday sessions, and the occasional studio visit when I want Cadillac and tower work, the same way you might mostly cook at home and eat out for the special things. Guided sessions through Fit by FitBoutique, our Pilates on demand app, keep my home training structured, and the studio covers the rest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a tower on my home reformer?

For most home users, no. The core of reformer Pilates happens on the reformer itself, and a tower mainly adds supported spine work and stretching variations. Instructors, studio owners and some rehab cases are the exception.

What is the difference between a tower and a Cadillac?

A Cadillac is a full standalone machine with a table and overhead frame. A tower is a smaller vertical frame added to a reformer that borrows some Cadillac exercises, mostly bar and spring work.

Can I add tower exercises without a tower?

Many of the benefits, spinal mobility and supported stretching, can be worked on the reformer with straps and the box, and topped up with an occasional studio session on a Cadillac.

Does a tower make a reformer harder to store?

Yes. A tower makes the machine taller, heavier and effectively permanent, which is worth weighing up if you love the idea of folding your reformer away.

Put the Budget Where You Feel It

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KEY SUMMARY

Do you need a tower on your reformer? I use one at studios, here is what it adds, who actually needs one and why my home setup goes without.

Written by Ayrah Yuso

I'm part of the FitBoutique team and have a solid passion (and love) for all things exercise related, including Reformer Pilates

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between the Maple frame and Aluminium frame reformers?

The main difference is the frame material and feel.

Our Maple Crest feature a full maple timber frame, are slightly more compact, and come with 5 springs. They have a warmer aesthetic and suit home environments beautifully.

Our Aluminium models have a heavier duty commercial feel and come with 6 springs. They are slightly more robust in appearance and commonly chosen for studio style setups.

Performance wise, both deliver the same workout experience. It simply comes down to your preferred look and feel.

What’s the difference between the Ivory, White Edition the Onyx Fold Reformer?

All three models share the same core specifications, performance, and commercial grade build. They all feature an aluminium frame, 6 springs, and the same carriage system.

The difference comes down to the finish and design.

The Onyx Fold is fully black for a sleek, modern look.
The Ivory features maple detailing through the centre for a softer contrast.
The White Edition has a white frame with a clean, light aesthetic.

Performance, strength, and functionality are the same across all three. It simply comes down to which colourway best suits your space.

Is the Ivory Reformer enough for beginners?

Absolutely! The Ivory Reformer is an excellent choice for beginners and home use. It offers great performance and quality, making it perfect for those new to reformer Pilates.

If I order today, can I choose or change my delivery date?

Yes, we can absolutely work with your preferred delivery date. Once your order is ready to ship, we’ll coordinate with our shipping partners to align the delivery as closely as possible to the date you’ve requested.

Please note:

Deliveries are ultimately carried out by third-party couriers, so exact dates can’t always be guaranteed.
What we can do is dispatch your order on a specific day to get it to you as close as possible to your preferred timeframe.
If you have a special date in mind (such as moving into a new space or setting up a studio), let us know in advance and we’ll do our best to match it.
For larger studio orders, we can also hold until you’re ready for delivery.

This way, you can plan with confidence knowing your reformer will arrive when it suits you best.

How do I know when my reformer will be delivered?

Once your reformer is dispatched, you will receive a tracking number. Our freight partner will contact you directly to arrange delivery, so you'll know exactly when to expect your reformer.

Are both the Ivory Reformer and the Onyx Fold Reformer easy to fold and move?

Yes! Both reformers are designed for easy folding and portability.

What are the key features of FitBoutique Reformer Pilates Machines?

FitBoutique offers a range of Reformer Pilates Machines, including the Onyx, Ivory, and Foldable Reformers. Each model is designed with adjustable resistance settings, a sturdy frame, and a comfortable padded surface to enhance your workout experience. The machines also feature a variety of attachments to accommodate different exercises and fitness levels

What are the benefits of using a Reformer Pilates Machine?

Using a Reformer Pilates Machine can significantly improve your strength, flexibility, and overall body awareness. Studies indicate that regular Pilates practice can enhance core stability by up to 30%, improve posture, and reduce the risk of injury. The adjustable resistance allows for a tailored workout that can be adapted to individual fitness levels and goals.

How is shipping handled for the Reformer Pilates Machines?

FitBoutique provides shipping for all Reformer Pilates Machines. All reformers are trackable, and once dispatched, you will receive your tracking details. All machines are carefully packaged to ensure they arrive in pristine condition. If you have any questions, just reach out, we are happy to help.