How was the Allegro 2 Reformer created? 15 years of history and the new Anniversary version

Joseph Pilates built his first reformer prototype from a hospital bed. Over the decades, the classic design evolved, but the real breakthrough in the commercial segment came 15 years ago. That’s when Balanced Body joined forces with the IDEO design studio from San Francisco. The goal was simple: refresh the Allegro line. The result? The project began to evolve so dramatically that the decision was made to create an entirely new reformer. And so the Allegro 2 reformer was born, which quickly set the standard in the commercial reformer segment in studios around the world.

Design based on testing and field research

The design of the Allegro 2 didn’t happen solely at desks. The IDEO team and Balanced Body founder Ken Endelman moved directly into pilates studios. The goal went deeper than just improving mechanics — it was about creating an entirely new aesthetic. 15 years ago, the market was dominated by heavy, classic frames. The Allegro 2 introduced a lightweight, visually cohesive, and unique design that immediately became a benchmark for the entire industry.

“Our work is based on prototypes. We build something quickly, even in a simplified version, and then try it out ourselves and observe advanced practitioners in action” — recalled Thomas Overthun, Director of Industrial Design at IDEO.

Designers came to training sessions with sketchbooks, gathering feedback from instructors and business owners. As a result of these conversations, concepts were introduced into the design process that had never before been analyzed in this industry:

• Revolutionary design and timeless form

The innovative frame line and the concealment of mechanisms gave the equipment an elegant look that fits any interior. The design proved so universal that, despite 15 years having passed, it still sets market trends and remains one of the most popular reformers in the world.

• Rapid prototyping

Instead of theorizing, working, simple constructions were created and immediately tested in studio conditions.

• Touch mechanism

They studied how the body reacts to contact with the frame and carriage, and what sensations accompany the user upon first contact with the machine.

• User experience

The focus was on how the client and instructor operate the moving parts during a dynamic workout. Designers also studied movement and the fluidity of the exercises.

• Idea generation

The process was based on whiteboard brainstorming sessions and thousands of sticky notes. This method became a permanent part of Balanced Body’s DNA when creating subsequent machines.

In the end, a reformer was created with timeless comfort of use and visual excellence, which made the Allegro 2 an unmatched standard — and consequently also one of the most frequently illegally copied reformers on the market. Find out why cheap imitations threaten the safety and comfort of your workouts in our article: Chinese reformer knockoffs — these differences are costing you clients.

The video below shows the behind-the-scenes design process and the birth of the Allegro 2 reformer:

Technical features of the Allegro 2 reformer’s construction

The choice of this model for professional studios is determined not only by its timeless design but also by specific patents and engineering solutions:

1. Infinity Footbar System

This is the world’s first, and still unique, footbar adjustment system along the entire length of the frame (with a lock in 9 horizontal positions and 4 vertical positions). Instead of limiting practitioners to a few fixed points, it allows the footbar to be moved to any position — by hand or foot, without needing to step off the carriage or interrupt the workout. This solution completely changed anatomical positioning on the reformer, opening the door to hundreds of new exercise variations and a perfect fit for any height.

2. SoftTouch strap adjustment

The construction eliminates metal carabiners. The result is no noise and smooth strap-length adjustment with a single pull. Adjustment is quick and quiet.

3. Carriage mechanism

The carriage moves on a precise roller system, free of resistance and sticking, ensuring stable operation during exercises.

4. Signature Springs system

A properly calibrated spring system provides progressive, precise resistance at every stage of movement.

New for the brand’s 50th anniversary: Anniversary Allegro 2

To mark Balanced Body’s 50th anniversary, an anniversary version of the equipment is joining the permanent lineup: Anniversary Allegro 2 Reformer.

Alongside the classic, light aluminum frame, the manufacturer now offers a choice of an entirely new color version. The Anniversary model features a matte black finish combined with dark walnut wood elements. The machine retains all functional solutions, including the carriage mechanism, the Infinity Footbar system, SoftTouch strap adjustment, and the precise Signature Springs system. For studio owners, this is a new styling option that fits current interior design trends based on dark details.

For the Anniversary model, the manufacturer is introducing a full line of color-matched accessories that transform the reformer into a multifunctional training station:

Equipment element	Business and training application
Tower	A dark construction that extends the reformer’s functionality with dozens of new exercise positions. It allows a significant part of the training and exercises known from the classic Cadillac (Trapeze Table) to be performed in a much smaller space, turning a single reformer into a multifunctional training station.
Platform Extender	A platform extension that significantly increases the support surface. It allows for safe, stable, and comfortable placement of feet, hands, or the whole body during complex exercise sequences.
Extended Head End Platform	Additional space at the headrest end. It increases the level of safety and comfort for the exerciser, while also opening up entirely new training possibilities — allowing for advanced movement sequences and increased exercise intensity.
Padded Jumpboard	A padded jump board enabling dynamic cardio training without straining the joints.
Plank Bars	Ergonomic plank handles that relieve and reduce pressure on the wrists during planks. They ensure a neutral hand position, increasing exercise comfort and supporting effective deep stabilization training.

 

Allegro 2 specifications and features

Construction element	Benefit for the studio owner and client
Frame and main structure	A durable, stable, and sturdy construction made of anodized aluminum, finished with precise powder coating resistant to scratches. Includes a permanently built-in platform made of solid maple wood (classic version) or dark walnut (Anniversary version).
Frame height configuration	The machine is standardly available in a low version without legs (frame height: 22.5 cm). Using the optional legs allows for the classic studio height (38 cm), making it easier for people undergoing rehabilitation to get on and off.
Infinity Footbar	Smooth horizontal sliding along the entire length of the frame (with a lock in 9 positions) and vertical adjustment (4 positions). Adjustment is done by hand or foot. It shortens the time needed to change footbar settings between exercises and allows the machine to be adapted to the client’s height and body build (a proprietary Balanced Body solution). The construction is fully covered with a comfortable material.
Moving platform	Equipped with an integrated, adjustable headrest and two-position, easily removable shoulder rests. Quiet and smooth operation, no vibration during movement, high comfort for the exerciser.
SoftTouch strap system	Allows precise adjustment of strap length to the client’s height and the requirements of a specific exercise. Adjustment is done using an easy-to-use lever located just behind the headrest — adjustment is possible even while lying on the moving platform. The construction eliminates metal clips and carabiners in favor of fastening loops, ensuring quiet operation and allowing for quick handle changes.
Signature Springs 5-spring system	The set includes 1 yellow spring (very light resistance), 1 blue spring (light resistance), and 3 red springs (medium resistance). The system allows for up to 46 degrees of resistance to be configured, making it easy to personalize training for each client. Special rings ensure safe and stable attachment of the springs to the frame.
Vertical and horizontal storage (stacking)	Ability to set up the machines vertically or stack them on top of each other (both with and without legs). Allows for quickly reclaiming floor space in the studio.
Mobility (optional wheel set)	Ability to move the reformer around the studio. The wheel set is required when storing the machine in a vertical position.

The choice of equipment determines the studio’s position in the local market. Durable construction, reliable springs, and smooth adjustment eliminate service costs and schedule downtime. Meanwhile, the unique design of the machines sets the brand apart and makes it easier to attract clients in the premium segment. Choose the version for you: