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Pilates Starter Kit: Your Guide to Essential Merrithew® Tools for Full-Body Workouts

Whether you’re just starting your Pilates journey or curating your ideal home studio, the right tools can make all the difference. Pilates is a low-impact, full-body workout that builds strength, mobility and neuromuscular control. With just a few essential pieces of equipment, you can transform any space into a focused movement environment.

From precision-engineered equipment to versatile, high-quality props, this is your go-to starter kit to functional, sustainable movement.

Reformer: Your Pilates Powerhouse

Pilates Starter Kit: Best Equipment and Props for Home Workouts

If you are looking for an extremely versatile piece of Pilates equipment, the Reformer is a must-have. This iconic piece of equipment uses spring resistance to support and challenge the body through a wide range of dynamic movements. The Pilates Reformer is designed to work your entire body (especially the upper and lower extremities), build core strength, improve posture and increase mobility.

  • Suitable for all fitness levels.
  • Supports rehabilitation, athletic performance training and everyday activity.
  • Enables dynamic, multi-planar movement to support varied programming and client needs.

Find Your Perfect Reformer with Our Quick Guide

Split-Pedal Stability Chair: Space-Efficient Strength & Rehab

Man exercising on Stability Chair

Perfect for multi-use or small studios, the Split-Pedal Stability Chair allows you to work the body in seated and standing positions, promoting balance, stability and core control.

  • Great for full-body strengthening.
  • Ideal for post-rehab, pre-natal and elderly clients, offering full-body conditioning and restorative movement.
  • Features independent pedal movement for targeted asymmetrical training.

Read Our Quick Guide on the Stability Chair

Fitness Circle® Pro: Activate More in Every Move

Man stretching on Mat with Mini Stability Ball and Fitness Circle

A versatile prop for anyone who wants to add intensity to their movement practice. Use the Fitness Circle Pro alone or with the Reformer, placing it between your hands, legs or ankles to challenge core engagement, activate the inner thighs and refine upper body alignment.

  • Lightweight and travel-friendly for practice anytime, anywhere.
  • Adds resistance without bulk.
  • Supports improved muscle activation and refined movement quality.

Add Deep Engagement with this Reformer and Fitness Circle Warm-Up

Toning Balls: Grip, Control and Resistance

Woman with Toning Balls on Mat

These weighted balls add variety, resistance and a balance challenge to any workout. A great tool for improving grip strength and coordination, Toning Balls are especially useful for clients working on motor control, post-rehab or functional hand strength.

  • Helps strengthen the entire arm and shoulder girdle.
  • Adds intensity without strain.

Build Shoulder Strength and Flexibility in Post-Rehab Clients.

Mini Stability Ball: Core Control Made Simple

Woman exercising with Mini Stability Ball

Whether placed behind your back, between the knees or under the pelvis, the Mini Stability Ball creates instability that wakes up deep stabilizer muscles. A small tool with big benefits, especially if you’re looking to improve back strength and body awareness.

  • Add instability and extra challenge to your routine.
  • Activate deep stabilizers and improve core control.
  • Targets core and hip stabilizers through multi-directional, low-impact movement.
  • Lightweight and packs easily for use on the go.

See How this Compact Prop Adds Postural Support to Reformer Workouts

Advance Your Practice Today

You don’t need a complete studio setup to get started. Just a few essentials, chosen well. Our equipment is designed to grow with you, with accessories that add value as your goals take shape. Pair it with expert-led workouts on Merrithew Connect and you’ll have a space that supports purposeful movement and progress with every session.

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