How Much Space Do You Need for a Pilates Reformer at Home?

A reformer is around two and a half metres long when it's set up, so space is usually the first question. Here's how to measure, how much room to leave around it, and how a fold-up model changes things.

Reformer dimensions

Full-length reformers are usually around 2.4 m (8 ft) long or more. As an example, the POLSE Fold-Up Reformer measures:

  • Unfolded: 255 cm long × 66 cm wide × 63 cm high
  • Carriage height: 35 cm from the floor
  • Folded: 120 × 65.5 × 37 cm
  • Weight: 65 kg

How much room to leave around it

The frame isn't the only space you need. Arm and leg work, side-lying exercises and getting on and off all happen around the reformer, so allow roughly an arm's length (about 60 cm) clear on each side and at each end.

For the Fold-Up, that means a clear area of about 3.75 × 1.85 m while you train.

Standing exercises also need clear headroom above the reformer, so avoid low beams and hanging lights directly overhead.

Storing it in a small space

This is where a fold-up reformer earns its place. Folded, the POLSE Fold-Up measures 120 × 65.5 × 37 cm, so it can stand upright against a wall or go in a large cupboard, leaving the room free when you're not training.

If you're deciding between designs, our guide to fold-out and fold-up reformers explains the difference.

Floors and surfaces

A reformer works on wood, laminate or carpet. On hard floors, a large mat underneath helps protect the floor and reduces noise. On thick carpet, check the frame sits level before you start.

A quick checklist before you order

  1. Measure the floor area you'll train in, including the clearance around it and the headroom above.
  2. If you're choosing a fold-up model, measure where it will be stored.
  3. Check doorways, stairs and lifts on the way in. The Fold-Up weighs 65 kg and arrives in its own crate, so plan for two people to carry it.

Short on space? Start here

The POLSE Fold-Up Reformer gives you a full 255 cm reformer that packs away, with a jump board, a box and a free year of classes in the POLSE app. If you have a dedicated room, compare it with our studio models in the reformers collection. For more ideas, see our home Pilates setup guide.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use a reformer in a small flat?

Yes, if you have about 3.75 × 1.85 m of clear floor to train in. A fold-up reformer then packs away, so the room works as a living space again.

Is a fold-up reformer full length?

The POLSE Fold-Up is 255 cm long when unfolded, so you get the full length for footwork, long stretches and jump board work.

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