Let me start by saying: I am a studio Pilates loyalist. The kind of person who books classes two weeks out, has a favorite reformer machine (second from the mirror, left side), and treats my instructor’s cues like gospel. So when I heard about the Flo Pilates Pocket Reformer, a foldable at-home version that literally fits under a couch, I rolled my eyes.
I’ve been burned by the “at-home fitness revolution” before. Half the stuff I’ve tested looked great in theory, but felt like working out with a pool noodle. So I ordered the Flo Reformer mostly out of curiosity. I figured it might make a cute post, maybe a light core day option. I did not expect what happened next.
First Impressions: Wait... This Is Kinda Sleek?
When it arrived, I’ll admit it looked better than I expected. The Flo Pocket Reformer is lightweight, folds like a dream, and somehow manages to be both minimal and functional. No clunky knobs, no giant footprint, and no neon plastic screaming “home gym.”
I set it up in my living room, queued up a full-body Flo class on their app (yes, lifetime access is included), and decided to give it a fair shot.
Five minutes in, I was shaking. Ten minutes in, I was sweating. By the end, I sat on the mat stunned, exhausted, and oddly satisfied.
This Is Not Just a Pretty Prop
Let’s talk about the workout. The resistance bands are no joke — I felt that same deep, controlled burn I chase in studio sessions. The gliding motion was smooth, and transitions from one move to the next felt intuitive, not clunky or awkward like some at-home contraptions. I was hitting my core, legs, glutes, and all those tiny posture muscles that only Pilates seems to wake up.
I kept waiting for it to fall short. It didn’t.
It wasn’t just a good workout for being at home — it was a good workout, period.
The Lifestyle Shift I Didn’t See Coming
I didn’t expect to start choosing it over the studio… but that’s what happened.
At first, I used the Flo Portable Pilates Reformer between my regular classes. A quick burn on a day I didn’t feel like commuting. A little flow when I was traveling or tight on time. But then I started reaching for it more. Because let’s be real, even the most die-hard Pilates fan doesn’t always want to spend 90 minutes getting to and from class.
Now I’m blending studio and home in a way that actually works for my life. I don’t miss workouts when I’m on the road. I can train at midnight if I want. And it’s so compact, it doesn’t take over my space. Not to mention, it actually looks good in my apartment, which is rare for any piece of real workout gear.
Let’s Talk Money
I don’t even want to calculate what I’ve spent on reformer classes over the years, but let’s just say… it’s a lot.
The Flo Reformer is $149.95 (regularly $300), which is basically three classes in my city. And for that price, you get the foldable reformer base, resistance bands, a push-up attachment, a cushioned knee mat, and lifetime access to the Flo Pilates app, which is packed with guided workouts. Not to mention added gifts including, a pair of grip socks, a $25 gift card, and priority shipping–all for free with your first order.
They even throw in free U.S. shipping and a 99-day money-back guarantee.
It’s a great deal, especially for something that delivers pro-level results. And unlike so many fitness gadgets I’ve tested, this one doesn’t just sit in a corner gathering dust — it’s part of my actual routine.
Final Thoughts
I still love my studio classes. Always will. But the Flo Pilates Pocket Reformer made me rethink everything I thought I knew about home workouts. It’s powerful, versatile, beautifully designed, and—dare I say—kind of revolutionary for anyone who wants the reformer experience without the reformer price (or space).
So yeah… I’m a believer now. And if you’re someone who swore you’d never get a good Pilates burn outside the studio? You might just want to try it for yourself.
