How to Use the Pilates Reformer with Tower

Pilates is all about developing flexibility, core strength, and better body awareness. The Reformer is a core piece of Pilates equipment that incorporates adjustable resistance for a wider range of exercises, and the BASI Reformer with Tower provides even more value. Learn more about our Pilates Reformer with Tower and how it can power excellent workouts for your students and clients.

BASI Systems Reformer with Tower

A standard Pilates Reformer is a raised, flat surface with a bar or foot bar at one end and a series of springs with varying levels of resistance. During exercises, practitioners will be on the platform and move it back and forth, pulling against the added resistance to increase their strength and flexibility. The Pilates Reformer with Tower has another dimension, with a vertical extension for springs, roll-down bar, and push-through options. Users can convert the unit easily between its Reformer and Tower settings with the mat conversion, and even use the Tower components while on the Reformer carriage. 

Pilates Reformer Setup

BASI Reformers allow for a wide range of customization and adjustments during setup. The following components form the foundation of the Reformer, and each one can be adjusted to suit your height, size, and body type: 

• Carriage: The carriage is the movable platform on the main body of the Reformer. There are springs attached to the underside which attach to the frame for varying resistance; the three-tiered spring bar allows for more gradual progression in spring tension. 
• Foot Bar: The footbar has a state-of-the-art hexagonal ridged pattern to prevent slipping, and can be lowered or raised to fit a wide range of heights and exercises.  
• Headrest: The headrest is fully adjustable to reduce the risk of neck strain and ensure proper head position during every exercise.
• Springs: Users can adjust the spring placement, height, and level of resistance for their optimal workout, no matter where in their Pilates journey they are.

The more versatile your Pilates equipment is, the better it can serve practitioners by aligning with their body's unique needs and the goals of every session. While the springs are important for changing the intensity of the workout, the footbar and headrest are key for ensuring safety, comfort, and reduced risk of injury.

Bringing in the Tower

The BASI Reformer with Tower brings additional options to every workout. Users can prioritize combination exercises that use both the basic Reformer settings and the added value of the Tower. For studios, we recommend setting up every Reformer with Tower before sessions begin so you can ensure the Tower is securely in place with the right hardware locked into place and ready to support the movements. The tower base should be fully inserted into the carriage frame and secured with fasteners so it doesn't wobble or move.

Each BASI Pilates Reformer with Tower includes these attachment components: 

• Push-through bar: This bar is adjustable and can sit at different heights so users can exercise on the floor, on mats, or on the Reformer carriage.
• Arm and leg springs: Springs attach to sliding cuffs that lock into place to get the perfect angle and resistance.
• Roll-down bar: Roll-down bars are useful for spirals and curling motions, supported squats, and other dynamic spinal articulation  exercises. 

What Classes Is the Reformer with Tower Best For?

Reformers with Towers are ideal for any class where you want to move beyond basic exercises and provide a unique experience for Pilates students ready to target more ambitious goals or reach specific levels of flexibility and core strength. They are particularly valuable in these types of classes:

• Interval training
• Strength and stability classes
• Sculpt and stretch classes
• Dynamic Pilates classes

Find high-quality equipment and studio supplies at BASI Systems as you prepare for your next season of classes. If you are in the U.S., you can browse our catalog here.