If you have been searching for a portable pilates reformer, chances are the Flo Pilates Reformer has popped up repeatedly on your screen. It is heavily advertised as a compact, space saving solution that promises studio style Pilates workouts from the comfort of home.
As a busy mom who genuinely enjoys home workouts, I was drawn in by the convenience, the sleek design, and the promise of reformer style resistance without the massive equipment or studio level pricing.
So I ordered the Flo Portable Pilates Reformer Board directly from their website, pilatesflo.com, for $139.
Unfortunately, after waiting weeks and actually using the product, I can confidently say this is one purchase I regret. This review is my full, honest experience so you can decide if this product is right for you.
About the Portable Flo Pilates Reformer
The Flo Portable Pilates Reformer Board is marketed as a lightweight, foldable Pilates reformer alternative designed for home use. According to the company, it provides resistance based Pilates workouts using pulley ropes and bands, all while remaining compact enough to store under a bed or couch.
The Flo reformer is often advertised with a suggested retail price of $310, though in reality it is almost always discounted and rarely seen above $150. Shipping is advertised as free, and the purchase is said to include a 1 year warranty and access to a companion workout app, including a 14 day free trial.
It sounds appealing on paper, especially for beginners or those short on space.
Ordering and Shipping
Ordering from the Flo website was straightforward, and shipping was listed as free. However, delivery took approximately three weeks, which felt long for a product positioned as modern and convenient.
My experience using this Pilatesflo Reformer
From the very first setup, I noticed the reformer was much lighter than expected. While portability is a selling point, the lightweight build made the unit feel unsteady during actual workouts.
One major issue I encountered was the app membership. At the time of purchase, Flo’s advertising clearly stated that app membership access was included with purchase. After downloading the app, I had no access to workouts or programs.
I immediately contacted customer service and provided screenshots of emails and advertisements clearly stating that membership was included. The response I received was that they no longer offer app access with purchases.
No compensation was offered.
To fully evaluate the product, I ended up paying separately for a one time app membership, even though their website also claims buyers receive a 14 day free trial, which I was never given.
App Classes and Workout Quality
After paying for access, the app workouts were disappointing. The classes are very short, not very challenging, and not particularly helpful if you have any Pilates experience.
Even as a busy mom, I want workouts that feel effective and intentional. These felt surface level and left me underwhelmed.
Resistance and Build Quality
The resistance level is very light, even at its strongest setting. This makes it unsuitable for anyone looking for real reformer style strength or toning.
The rope pulleys are extremely long, do not glide smoothly, and do not stay in place properly. Movements feel awkward rather than fluid.
Overall, the build quality feels cheap, and the reformer does not feel secure during use.
Not a Full Pilates Reformer Replacement
This is important to understand.
Despite how it is marketed, the Flo Pilates Reformer is not a full reformer replacement. It is more of a Pilates inspired exercise board. If you have ever used a real reformer, the difference is obvious almost immediately.
Better Alternatives
If you are looking for a portable Pilates solution, your money would be better spent on a better built Amazon alternative with transparent reviews and easy return.
Meanwhile, I received a Pilates reformer from my sister as an early Christmas gift.
It’s the PAETA Pilates Reformer, an 91 inches Foldable Reformer Pilates Machine for Home Use, with Dual Resistance- Springs and Cords available on Amazon.com.
If you’re a pilates beginner like myself, I believe this is the best option to go for.
Pros:
Foldable Design – One of the standout features for me is how easily the reformer folds for storage. My home gym space is limited, and the ability to fold it up when not in use is a game-changer.
Adjustable Heights – The reformer’s adjustable height settings allow for a customizable workout. This is perfect for different exercises and users with varying preferences or body types.
Sturdy Build and Piano Wire Springs – The quality of the materials is immediately evident. The piano wire springs provide excellent resistance and a smooth feel during every movement. I appreciate how durable and reliable the springs feel, giving me confidence during each session.
Jump Board – The inclusion of a jump board adds an extra dimension to my workouts. It allows for high-intensity, cardio-style training that adds variety and challenge to my routine.
Comfortable & Quiet – The padding on the machine is soft but firm enough for proper support during exercises. It’s also surprisingly quiet compared to other reformers I’ve used, which is great for working out without disturbing others in the house.
Smooth, Easy Assembly – Setup was straightforward, and I was able to start using it in no time. All parts were well-packaged, and the instructions were clear.
Cons:
Size – At 91 inches, this is a pretty large piece of equipment, so while it folds for storage, you still need to have a decent amount of space to use it comfortably.
Overall:
It’s well-built, adjustable, and offers a variety of features.
Is the Flo Pilates Reformer a Scam?
I would not call the Flo Pilates Reformer an outright scam because a product does arrive and it technically works. However, the marketing is misleading, and key promises were not honored.
Issues include advertised app membership that was revoked, visuals suggesting accessories that are not included, and a warranty that becomes costly to use.
Flo advertises a money back guarantee and a 1 year warranty, but returning the product comes with significant costs.
Customers are required to pay exorbitant return shipping fees and a restocking fee, even if the unit is defective. This discourages returns and makes the guarantee far less consumer friendly than it appears.
While not illegal, it feels deceptive, and that matters when consumers are spending their hard earned money.
Pros and Cons of Flo Pilates Reformer
Pros
Lightweight and easy to store.
Free shipping.
Cons
Not a full Pilates reformer replacement.
Very light resistance.
Unsteady during workouts.
Long rope pulleys that do not glide smoothly.
Final Verdict: Would I Recommend the Flo Pilates Reformer?
Honestly, no.
For $139, plus additional money for app access, the Flo Pilates Reformer feels incomplete, poorly built, and overhyped. The misleading advertising and customer service experience make it difficult to trust the brand.
As always, this review is written to help other moms make informed decisions and avoid wasting money on products that do not live up to their promises.
while you’re here, read my review of this treadmill I tried some months back.