Creating a reformer Pilates area in a gym: a practical guide for gym owners

Setting up a reformer Pilates area in a gym comes down to four decisions: the class format, qualified instruction, the layout of the machines and insurance. You can start with a few fixed studio reformers, or with foldable reformers if the studio needs to stay multi-purpose. Here is how to go about it, step by step, with the actual dimensions and prices of our machines.

Why reformers are coming to gyms

Reformer Pilates is spreading through specialist chains. In France, for example, Club Pilates, billed as the world leader in reformer Pilates, opened its 14th French location in Bordeaux, with classes limited to 12 people. This small-group format is just one example, not a rule.

The gym market is still sizeable. According to Epsimas figures reported by Toute-la-Franchise, at least 6,811 gyms were active in France in March 2026; the same article lists Pilates among niche concepts. Across Europe, the Deloitte and EuropeActive report, covered by Athletech News, counts 75.5 million members and €39.1 billion in revenue in 2025. For a gym owner, the reformer is a way to offer something different from the gym floor and standard group classes.

Define your offer before you buy

The number of machines you need depends on the class format, so start by deciding how you will sell the space:

• Small-group classes: one reformer per participant. This format needs the most stations.
• One-to-one or duet coaching: one or two stations are enough. A reformer with a tower broadens the range of exercises.
• Bookable open access: reserve this for members who are already trained, with clear rules on settings and supervision.

Start small, track attendance, then add stations. Identical machines make teaching and maintenance simpler.

Instruction: required qualifications and display rules

Paid classes must be taught by a qualified instructor, and the rules depend on the country your gym operates in. In France, for example, Article L. 212-1 of the Sports Code requires anyone who teaches or leads a physical activity for payment to hold a recognised diploma, title or certificate and to register for a professional card. An employer who allows an unqualified person to teach faces, as does that person, one year’s imprisonment and a €15,000 fine (Article L. 212-8, according to the fact sheet from the French Ministry of Sport). Elsewhere in Europe, check the qualification requirements that apply in your country.

The reformer also calls for specific skills, such as adjusting the springs, straps and footbar for each client, so make sure your instructor is trained to teach on equipment. Our article which qualification to teach Pilates covers qualifications and Pilates certifications in detail.

As for notices, gyms in France must clearly display a copy of the diplomas and professional card of every paid instructor, as well as the insurance certificate; check the equivalent requirements in your own country.

Space and layout

Work from the actual dimensions of the machines, then add enough clearance to move around, get on to the carriage and let the instructor walk between stations. Agree this clearance with your instructor and in line with your safety plan: there is no single standard figure.

Machine dimensions

With a tower, the height reaches 193 cm: check the ceiling height and any overhead fittings (lights, ducting, speakers).

Fixed or foldable: does the studio need to be cleared?

If the reformer area is a dedicated room, choose fixed reformers. They stay adjusted and ready between classes. If the same room is also used for yoga, step or strength classes, foldable reformers let you clear it. In that case, allow time in the timetable for setting up and putting away, and plan for handling: each Aluminium Foldable weighs 68 kg. You will also need somewhere to store the folded machines.

Either way, tell us how many sessions you are planning in your request: suitability of each machine for your intended use is confirmed with your quote.

What equipment for a first reformer area?

A first area typically means identical reformers for classes, plus perhaps one versatile station for coaching. Here are two sample set-ups, costed at our list prices including VAT, before volume pricing on quotation.

Add accessories such as boxes, spare straps and non-slip socks for members. These are only examples: the number of stations depends on your class format and floor space. To see all our fixed machines, browse our studio reformers collection.

Insurance: your liability cover must include the new activity

A gym operator must have liability insurance covering the business, paid instructors, staff and members. In France, this is set out in Article L. 321-7 of the Sports Code, as noted in the ministry fact sheet on sports facilities; check the equivalent rules in your country. Before opening the reformer area, tell your insurer about the new activity and the new machines, and get written confirmation that your policy covers them. Update any certificate on display if necessary.

Delivery, financing and volume pricing

Factor delivery time into your launch date. Standard delivery is free to 30 European countries and takes 7 to 14 days; these are estimates. Fixed reformers are heavy (78 kg for the Wooden Studio, 119 kg for the Studio with Tower), so plan access and handling in advance.

There are several ways to finance the equipment, depending on your situation: your own funds, a bank loan, leasing or equipment hire. Pilates Douceur does not offer finance, so discuss these options with your bank or a specialist provider, using our quote.

Our offer for sports professionals sets out the support available to gyms. Volume pricing applies from 2 pieces of equipment.

Frequently asked questions