A studio reformer runs class after class, six or seven days a week, under bodies of every height and strength. That is a different job from a machine used three mornings a week at home, and it calls for different equipment.
This guide covers what makes a reformer studio grade, the frames in the FitBoutique commercial range and who each one suits, and the questions worth answering before you fit out a room.
What makes a reformer studio grade
Most reformers look alike in a photo. The differences show up after the thousandth class, and they sit in a handful of places.
A fixed frame
A non fold frame has no hinge to wear and no join to flex under load. For a room that stays set up, it gives the most grounded, stable ride.
Enough springs
Six springs give an instructor fine control over load for every client in the room, from a first class to an athlete. More springs, finer steps.
Carriage glide
The carriage should roll smoothly and quietly from the first rep to the last, with no catch at the end of the rail. Clients feel this before anything else.
Upholstery that lasts
Padding takes sweat, cleaning spray and constant pressure. Commercial upholstery keeps its shape and wipes down between classes.
The FitBoutique studio range
Every reformer below is built for permanent setup and daily use. Within each pair, the specification and performance are identical. Only the colour and finish change, so you can choose the look that suits your studio.
Space Black Reformer
Built for high traffic studios. A larger studio frame in an all black finish, made to perform day in, day out.
The Studio Reformer
The same engineering as Space Black, in a white frame with beige upholstery for a lighter studio aesthetic.
Onyx Reformer
A non fold commercial model with a full aluminium frame and a solid, grounded feel under load. Full black frame and upholstery.
Sienna Reformer
Exactly the same specification as the Onyx, finished in a white frame with beige upholstery.
Perlino Reformer
Designed in house by FitBoutique. A full maple frame with the Max Pro spring system, made for smoother resistance and a more responsive ride.
| Model | Frame | Springs | Finish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Space Black | Larger studio frame, fixed | 6 | Black frame, black upholstery |
| The Studio Reformer | Larger studio frame, fixed | 6 | White frame, beige upholstery |
| Onyx | Full aluminium, fixed | 6 | Black frame, black upholstery |
| Sienna | Full aluminium, fixed | 6 | White frame, beige upholstery |
| Perlino | Full maple wood | Max Pro system | Natural maple |
Beyond the reformer
Many studios add one or two pieces that widen the class timetable: private sessions, rehab work and small group formats that a reformer alone cannot run.
Planning your studio floor
Start with the room, not the catalogue. Measure the floor, mark the doors and windows, and work out how many machines fit with room to move between them. Instructors need to walk the full length of every reformer to cue and adjust, and clients need space at the head and foot of the machine for standing and strap work.
What is the difference between a studio reformer and a home reformer?
A studio reformer is built for many users and many hours a day. It usually has a fixed frame, a full spring system and commercial grade upholstery. A home reformer may fold away for storage, which suits a shared room but adds a hinge to the frame.
Should a studio choose a fixed or folding reformer?
For a dedicated studio room, a fixed frame gives the most stable ride and nothing to wear at the fold. A folding commercial model, such as the Onyx Fold or Ivory, makes sense where the room is shared with other classes and the machines need to store upright.
Are the black and white versions different machines?
No. Space Black and The Studio Reformer share the same engineering, and so do Onyx and Sienna. Only the colour of the frame and upholstery changes.
Can a home studio use commercial equipment?
Yes. Every machine in the commercial range suits a serious home setup as well as a professional studio, as long as the room can hold a reformer that stays set up.