Setup Guide

Reformora Delivery, Setup & Equipment Care Guide

Prepare your space, inspect your delivery, and review the essential steps for safely setting up and caring for your Reformora Pilates equipment.

Please read this guide before opening, assembling, moving, or using your equipment.

This guide provides general preparation, safety, and care information. Assembly requirements vary by product and model. Always follow the model-specific manual, labels, diagrams, and instructions supplied with your equipment.

Where this guide differs from the instructions supplied with your product, follow the product-specific instructions.

For assistance, contact support@reformora.com before assembling or using the equipment.

Before Your Delivery Arrives

Prepare a suitable space before your equipment is delivered.

Measure the Access Route

Confirm that the packaged equipment can pass through:

Exterior doors
Hallways
Staircases
Elevators
Interior doorways
Corners and narrow access points

Large Pilates equipment may arrive in more than one carton or crate.

Prepare the Installation Area

Choose a space that is:

Flat and level
Clean and dry
Large enough for the assembled equipment
Clear of furniture and obstacles
Away from excessive heat, moisture, and direct sunlight
Suitable for safe movement around the equipment

Leave adequate clearance around moving components, including carriages, pedals, footbars, tower springs, and push-through bars.

A suitable equipment mat may help protect delicate flooring and reduce movement.

Before You Begin Assembly

Assembly requirements vary between products.

Before starting:

Review the instructions supplied with your model
Confirm that you have received all components
Prepare a clean, protected working area
Place a blanket, mat, or shipping cardboard beneath the equipment
Keep children and pets away from the assembly area
Remove jewellery or loose clothing that could catch on moving parts
Arrange bolts, washers, springs, straps, and accessories by type

Some products may include basic assembly tools. Additional tools may be required depending on the model.

Do not begin assembly until you have confirmed the tools and installation requirements shown in the product-specific instructions.

Assembly Assistance

We recommend using at least two capable adults when assembling, lifting, positioning, or moving:

Full-size reformers
Reformers with towers
Cadillac and trapeze tables
Ladder barrels
Large chairs
Wall-mounted equipment
Other heavy or oversized products

Do not attempt to lift or position heavy equipment alone.

Professional installation is recommended whenever wall mounting, structural attachment, or specialised assembly is required.

When Your Delivery Arrives

Depending on the size and weight of your order, it may arrive through a parcel courier or freight delivery service.

Inspect the shipment carefully before assembly.

Check the Packaging

Before opening the cartons or crates:

Count the packages and compare them with the delivery information.
Check for crushing, punctures, tears, dents, or water exposure.
Photograph all sides of any damaged packaging.
Photograph the shipping label and delivery condition.
Record any visible damage with the delivery provider when possible.

Check the Product

Open the packaging carefully. Avoid using sharp tools near upholstery, ropes, straps, wood, or painted surfaces.

After opening:

Check the components against the packing list or the “Included in the Box” section on the product page.
Inspect the frame, rails, upholstery, wheels, bars, springs, ropes, straps, and accessories.
Look for cracks, bends, deep scratches, loose components, or other visible damage.
Keep all packaging until the product has been fully inspected and assembled.

If a component is damaged, missing, or appears unsafe, do not assemble or use the equipment.

Contact support@reformora.com as soon as possible and include:

Your full name
Order number
Product name
A description of the issue
Photographs of the packaging
Photographs or a short video of the affected component

Our support team will review the issue and explain the available resolution in accordance with the applicable Reformora shipping, returns, and warranty policies.

General Assembly Principles

These principles apply to most equipment but do not replace the instructions supplied with your product.

Organise the Components

Place all components on a clean, protected surface.

Keep together:

Frame components
Legs and supports
Carriage parts
Footbars and pedals
Shoulder rests and headrests
Tower or canopy components
Springs
Ropes and straps
Handles and loops
Bolts, washers, pins, and knobs

Do not discard small bags, labels, protective covers, or packaging until assembly is complete.

Start Fasteners by Hand

Begin each bolt or screw by hand before using a tool. This helps reduce the risk of cross-threading or damaging the fitting.

Do not force a bolt that does not turn smoothly.

Keep the Frame Square

Where multiple frame connections are required:

Install all fasteners loosely.
Align the frame and confirm that it sits evenly.
Tighten the fasteners gradually.
Alternate between opposite sides where appropriate.
Complete a final check after the frame is aligned.

Do not fully tighten one side before the remaining fasteners have been positioned.

Do Not Overtighten

Fasteners should be secure without damaging the thread, frame, wood, or fitting.

Follow any tightening sequence or torque guidance included with the product.

Recheck the Equipment

After assembly:

Check every accessible bolt, pin, and adjustment knob
Confirm that all locking mechanisms are engaged
Ensure that the equipment sits evenly
Recheck the fasteners after the first several uses

Stop using the equipment if any connection repeatedly loosens.

Setup Guidance by Product Type

Pilates Reformers

Assembly differs between aluminum, wood, oak, maple, foldable, and studio reformers.

General setup may include:

Positioning the main frame or side rails
Attaching the legs or base supports
Installing the footbar
Positioning the carriage on the rails
Attaching the shoulder rests and headrest
Connecting the spring system
Installing the risers, ropes, straps, handles, or loops
Adjusting both ropes to an equal length
Testing the carriage without a user

Before first use, confirm that:

The frame is stable
The footbar is securely locked
The carriage moves smoothly
The carriage does not scrape or wobble
The springs are fully connected
The ropes are correctly routed
The straps are not twisted or frayed
No packaging or tools remain beneath the equipment

Do not use the reformer if the carriage, footbar, spring system, or frame feels unstable.

Foldable Pilates Reformers

Folding and locking mechanisms vary by model.

To prepare a foldable reformer:

Place the equipment on a flat, protected surface.
Unfold the frame using the designated handles or support points.
Engage every supplied locking pin, latch, knob, or safety mechanism.
Confirm that all frame sections are aligned.
Install the footbar, shoulder rests, springs, ropes, and accessories as shown in the product instructions.
Test the carriage before placing body weight on the equipment.

Before folding:

Remove loose accessories
Place the carriage in the instructed position
Release spring tension where required
Secure ropes and straps
Keep hands clear of hinges and folding points
Lower or fold the frame slowly and with control

Never place weight on a foldable reformer until all safety locks are fully engaged.

Store the equipment only in the position approved in the model-specific instructions.

Reformers with Tower

Assemble the reformer base before installing the tower unless the product instructions state otherwise.

General setup may include:

Completing the reformer frame and carriage assembly
Attaching the tower posts to the designated mounting points
Installing the upper crossbar
Installing the push-through bar
Connecting tower springs and accessories
Installing safety straps, chains, or locking pins
Checking that the tower is aligned and stable

Before applying resistance:

Confirm that all tower fasteners are secure
Check that the tower does not rock
Confirm that spring hooks are fully seated
Engage the required safety straps
Test bars and springs using light, controlled pressure

Never use a push-through bar without the required safety mechanism.

Cadillac and Trapeze Tables

Cadillac and trapeze systems contain large structural and tension-loaded components.

Assembly should be completed by at least two capable adults. Professional assembly may be appropriate for certain models.

General setup may include:

Assembling and levelling the table base
Installing the legs and support frame
Attaching the vertical corner posts
Connecting the upper horizontal bars
Installing the push-through bar
Installing the roll-back bar
Attaching the trapeze, springs, straps, and handles
Securing all safety chains, straps, and locking pins

Before use:

Confirm that the table does not rock
Check that the upper frame is aligned
Verify that every structural connection is secure
Attach springs only to approved anchor points
Test each moving component with light resistance
Confirm that safety straps are correctly positioned

Do not hang, swing, or suspend body weight from a component unless the product instructions specifically permit it.

Pilates Chairs

Chair designs may include a single pedal, split pedal, handles, adjustable poles, and different spring positions.

General setup may include:

Positioning the chair on a level, non-slip surface
Installing the pedal or step mechanism
Attaching the springs to the designated anchor points
Installing handles or support poles where included
Securing all adjustment knobs and locking pins
Testing the pedal by hand

Before use:

Confirm that both spring ends are fully connected
Check that the pedal moves smoothly
Make sure the pedal returns under controlled tension
Engage the split-pedal locking mechanism where required
Confirm that handles and poles cannot move unexpectedly

Keep fingers, hands, clothing, and hair away from the springs and pedal mechanism.

Ladder Barrels

Ladder barrel designs and adjustment systems vary.

General setup may include:

Positioning the barrel and ladder sections
Connecting both sections through the base or sliding track
Installing and tightening the supplied fasteners
Adjusting the distance between the ladder and barrel
Engaging the locking mechanism

Before use:

Confirm that the adjustment lock is secure
Check that the base does not slide
Ensure that the equipment does not rock
Confirm that all rungs and handles are stable

Do not adjust the barrel while a person is using the equipment.

Spine Correctors, Arc Barrels, and Small Barrels

These products may arrive fully or partially assembled.

Before use:

Remove all packaging.
Inspect the frame, base, handles, and upholstery.
Attach any removable handles or feet according to the instructions.
Place the product on a flat, non-slip surface.
Confirm that the product sits evenly and does not move unexpectedly.

Do not use the product if the base, upholstery, or handles appear damaged or unstable.

Pedi Poles and Ped-o-Pull Systems

Certain Pedi Pole and Ped-o-Pull models require wall or structural support.

General setup may include:

Positioning the base on a flat, non-slip surface
Assembling the vertical post
Adjusting the post to the permitted height
Securing the post to an appropriate structural surface where required
Installing the springs at the designated positions
Connecting the hand grips
Testing the system using light tension

Use wall fixings suitable for the wall material and installation requirements.

Do not install the product into unsupported plasterboard or another unsuitable surface.

Professional installation is recommended when wall mounting or structural attachment is required.

Do not use the product if the post, base, or mounting point moves under pressure.

Wall-Mounted Pilates Springboards

Springboards are load-bearing products and must be attached to a suitable structural surface.

Before installation:

Confirm the wall construction
Identify suitable structural studs, masonry, or other approved support
Check the mounting position and required clearance
Use fixings suitable for the wall type and expected load
Consult a qualified installer when uncertain

General installation may include:

Positioning and levelling the board
Marking the approved mounting points
Drilling and installing suitable structural fixings
Tightening each mounting point evenly
Confirming that the board sits flush against the wall
Installing the springs, handles, straps, and accessories
Testing the board using light tension

Do not mount a springboard into unsupported plasterboard alone.

Do not use the springboard if the board or fixings move under pressure.

Mats, Boxes, and Portable Accessories

For mats, moon boxes, sitting boxes, rings, balls, and other portable accessories:

Inspect the product before use
Place it on a clean, level surface
Confirm that removable components are secure
Check handles, stitching, pads, and upholstery
Keep the product away from sharp objects and excessive heat
Use the accessory only for its intended purpose

Inflatable products should be inflated gradually and only to the size or pressure stated in their product-specific instructions.

Do not stand on, sit on, or lift an accessory unless it is designed for that purpose.

Springs and Resistance

Pilates springs are tension-loaded components and must be handled carefully.

Adding springs or changing their attachment position generally changes resistance. The effect may vary depending on the product, exercise, and spring position.

Always:

Follow the model-specific spring guidance
Begin with controlled resistance
Confirm that each spring is attached at both ends
Keep fingers away from hooks and anchor points
Change springs only when the equipment is stationary and unloaded
Maintain control of spring-loaded bars, pedals, and carriages
Inspect the springs regularly

Stop using a spring if you notice:

Rust or corrosion
A stretched or uneven shape
Bent or open hooks
Cracks
Unusual noise
Loss of tension
Damage to the protective covering

Replace worn or damaged springs with compatible parts intended for the product.

Safety Check Before First Use

Complete this inspection before placing full body weight on the equipment.

Confirm that:

The frame is level and stable
The equipment does not rock
All bolts and fasteners are secure
Adjustment knobs and locking pins are engaged
The carriage or pedal moves smoothly
The footbar is correctly locked
Springs are connected at both ends
Safety straps are installed where required
Ropes and straps are evenly adjusted
Ropes, loops, and stitching are free from visible damage
Handles and shoulder rests are secure
Wall-mounted connections are immovable
The area around the equipment is clear
No tools or packaging remain beneath the equipment

Test moving components slowly and without a user before beginning exercise.

Begin with controlled resistance and movements appropriate for your experience.

Stop immediately if you notice unusual movement, instability, scraping, catching, or unexpected noise.

Safe Use Guidance

Use Reformora equipment only for its intended Pilates, fitness, or controlled-movement purpose.

Before each session:

Inspect the equipment
Select an appropriate resistance level
Keep the surrounding area clear
Tie back long hair
Avoid loose clothing near springs and moving components
Wear suitable clothing and footwear where appropriate
Keep children and pets away from the equipment

Children should not use or play on the equipment without appropriate supervision.

People who are new to Pilates, managing an injury, recovering from surgery, pregnant, or living with a health condition should seek guidance from a qualified Pilates professional or appropriately qualified healthcare professional before use.

Reformora equipment and guidance are not substitutes for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Cleaning and Care

After Each Use

Wipe the upholstery with a soft, slightly damp cloth
Remove perspiration and moisture
Wipe handles and frequently touched surfaces
Return springs and accessories to a safe position
Keep ropes and straps clear of the frame
Remove dust or debris from the surrounding floor

Do not saturate the upholstery.

Regular Inspection

Periodically inspect:

Bolts and fasteners
Springs and hooks
Ropes and straps
Clips and carabiners
Carriage wheels
Rails and tracks
Adjustment knobs
Locking pins
Pedal hinges
Footbar mechanisms
Tower connections
Wall-mounted fixings
Upholstery and stitching

The required inspection frequency depends on usage. Equipment used in a professional studio should be inspected more frequently than equipment used occasionally at home.

Cleaning Products

Use a soft cloth with water and a mild cleaning solution suitable for the product material.

Avoid:

Bleach
Abrasive cleaners
Harsh solvents
Oil-based cleaners
Excess water
Spraying liquid directly onto rails, springs, bearings, or moving mechanisms

Test any cleaning product on a small, discreet area before wider use.

Care for Wooden Equipment

Wood is a natural material and should be protected from environmental extremes.

To care for wooden frames:

Keep them away from direct sunlight
Avoid radiators and strong heat sources
Protect them from excessive moisture and humidity
Wipe spills promptly
Do not use abrasive or solvent-based cleaners
Avoid dragging the frame across the floor

Natural variations in colour and grain may be present in wooden components.

Rails, Wheels, and Moving Components

Keep reformer rails and tracks clean to support smooth carriage movement.

Use a clean, dry, soft cloth to remove dust and debris.

Do not apply oils, lubricants, or chemicals unless specifically recommended in the model instructions.

Stop using the equipment if:

The carriage catches or jumps
A wheel appears damaged
The rails become misaligned
A moving part produces unusual noise
A component makes contact with the frame unexpectedly

Contact Reformora before making an unapproved mechanical adjustment.

Moving and Storage

Before moving equipment:

Remove detachable accessories
Secure the carriage, pedal, or moving components
Release spring tension where instructed
Secure loose ropes and straps
Use the designated lifting points
Ask another person to assist with heavy products
Protect the frame and floor during movement

Do not lift or pull equipment using:

Ropes
Straps
Upholstery
Springs
Foot loops
Tower bars not designed as lifting points

Store equipment indoors in a clean, dry, and temperature-stable environment.

Foldable equipment should only be stored in the position approved in its model-specific instructions.

Warranty and Support

Your Reformora product is covered by the warranty terms shown on the applicable product page and in the Reformora Warranty Policy.

Warranty coverage, exclusions, and duration may vary by product or component.

For questions about:

Assembly
Missing components
Transit damage
Replacement parts
Product care
Warranty support

Email support@reformora.com and include:

Your full name
Order number
Product name
A clear description of the issue
Photographs or a short video

Do not continue assembling or using equipment that appears damaged, incomplete, incorrectly installed, or unstable.

The Reformora support team is available to help you create a safe, comfortable, and dependable Pilates space.

Reformora

Reformora is an independent online retailer specialising in Pilates equipment, based in Malden, Massachusetts. We are a retailer, not a manufacturer — we select the equipment we sell and handle shipping, returns, warranty and support ourselves. More about us.

Contact Reformora

Reformora
88 Whitman St, Malden, MA 02148, United States
Email: support@reformora.com
Phone: +1 (781) 568-5891
Hours: Monday–Saturday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (Eastern Time)
Live chat available on this site — we reply within one business day.