You may already be doing Pilates on an exercise mat, but if you want to increase the resistance without spending the money and space on a Pilates machine, a Pilates bar can help. The best Pilates bars come in a variety of price points, with a sufficient number of accessories to create adjustable resistance levels while still being easy to store.
The purpose of a Pilates bar is to allow for more intense workouts without the addition of large machinery, which is why portability and ease of storage are key. All bars can be broken down into two or three pieces for storage without taking up too much space. Some even come with a carry bag to keep things neat and organized if you plan on taking your Pilates bar with you on the road.
When considering different Pilates bars, consider the number of accessories you may need that can increase the versatility and difficulty of your workout while accommodating people of different heights. Many barbells come with add-ons such as resistance bands of varying tension, figure-eight resistance bands (to improve muscle strength), and adjustable-length nylon straps that connect the resistance bands to the barbell.
Whether you need something simple and streamlined or prefer to have a ton of extra equipment to shake things up, here are the best Pilates bars at every price.
1. Fan Favorite
With high ratings and over 2,600 reviews on Amazon, this Pilates bar is a clear favorite for those looking to up the intensity of their Pilates workouts. Constructed of solid iron tubing and a non-slip EVA foam cover, the kit comes with only basic features, including two adjustable resistance bands. However, the pole comes in three parts for easier storage or transport, and instructions are included on how to add resistance by wrapping the strap around the pole according to your desired tension. It comes with a carrying bag as well as a workout e-book and videos to help guide you. Choose purple or gray.
Helpful review: "I spent a lot of time deciding which Pilates bar to buy and I'm so happy I chose this one. It's great for workouts and very durable. It's easy to roll up the straps to adjust the resistance. The bar is easy Screwed together and sturdy and of good quality.”
2. The most fancy one
If your goal is to maximize exercise versatility, this Pilates bar is sure to fit the bill. Designed with metal tubes covered in EVA foam, it includes three adjustable resistance lines of varying tension that you can stack to create 10, 15, and 20 pounds of resistance. The set also comes with five colorful loop resistance bands with tension levels ranging from 5 to 40 pounds. Additionally, the tube resistance band attaches to the bar via straps with buckles, is adjustable in height and length, and comes with a workout e-book. This Pilates bar breaks into two parts for easy storage and portability.
Helpful review: "I love this product! It comes with a lot which is a huge bonus. I love that the straps can be easily interchanged to change the resistance. I also like that the handles can be detached from each strap for ease and richness Creative swap. Very easy to store […] The mini straps are also available in 5 sizes. I am very impressed with this purchase and highly recommend! ”
3. One with resistance up to 280 lbs.
This highly versatile Pilates bar set gives you plenty of resistance for more challenging home workouts. Comes with four sets of resistance bands (eight bands total) ranging in weight from 20 to 50 pounds and combined for a maximum resistance of 280 pounds. For extra adjustability, nylon straps attach to the ends of the straps via carabiners to accommodate different heights or lengths, and door anchors allow you to use the poles in a variety of creative ways. The foam-wrapped pole comes in three parts for easy storage, and the kit also includes a travel-friendly carrying bag and an instruction booklet with exercise tips.
Helpful review: “This set is exactly what I needed to be more consistent with my workout routine. It’s hard for me to get to the gym due to my busy schedule. If I need more of a challenge, I just add resistance. With this set With the equipment, the workout possibilities are endless.”
4. Pilates Bar Set with Free Workout App
If the e-book and instruction manual aren't enough to get you really excited about working out at home, this Pilates bar set comes with the free Champya app, which offers video tutorials with strengthening and stretching exercises so you feel like you have your own Personal practice coach. The pole itself is made of stainless steel, has a thick foam exterior, a nylon handle, and is adjustable. It comes with two resistance bands (the bar can hold up to 40 pounds of resistance), a door anchor, two extra handles, and a carrying bag. The bar comes in three parts for easier storage and portability, and is available in black or pink.
Helpful review: "This workout kit contains all the equipment you need for a full-body workout. It's very high quality, durable, and comes with workout guides. It easily folds into a handbag for easy portability."
5. Best Affordable Pilates Bar
If you're new to Pilates, or just don't want to spend too much money on equipment, it doesn't get much more affordable than this Pilates bar. This $15 bar is made of steel and covered in soft foam, and its resistance bands are adjustable, which is rare at this price point, but keep in mind that some reviewers say it's not as adjustable as others options. The bar comes in two parts for easy portability and storage, and comes with its own storage bag. Available in three colors: black, pink and turquoise.
Helpful review: "I love this Pilates bar. It's sturdy and easy to use. You can work two or three different muscle groups at the same time with constant tension. It's better for my wrists than free weights Much more. It's great to be able to adjust the tension...just a little push and pull."
6. Pilates bar with reinforced figure-8 straps
Another affordable option, this Pilates bar is a simple, efficient option that comes with a figure-8 band for additional muscle-strengthening exercises. For those just starting out, sturdy steel bars wrapped in foam are another great option. Many people report that the resistance of the wires is adequate, but keep in mind that they are not adjustable. The bar comes in a cheerful pink color and is divided into two parts, requiring minimal storage space. It doesn't have other perks, such as a storage bag or e-book, though.
Helpful review: "The moderate resistance level is perfect for beginners. Love the color!"
Nice to have: Popular Pilates Ring
Strengthen the muscles of your legs, arms and abs with the help of this popular Pilates ring. The 14-inch circuit facilitates a variety of Pilates-based exercises, comes with exercise guides, and has over 6,000 reviews. This lightweight and portable ring features padded inner and outer grips for comfort and comes with a carrying bag. Choose from six colors.
Helpful review: "Love it! I use this when I can't make it to a Pilates class. Just like the one in my Pilates class."
Also great: some non-slip socks for at-home workouts
Before you step on the mat and grab the bar, put on these comfortable yoga socks that protect you and prevent you from sliding during your Pilates, barre, or yoga workout. These ballet-inspired socks feature silicone grips on the sole for traction and an elastic cross strap on the front. They have over 21,000 reviews and come in several different colors and packs of one, two, three or four.
Helpful review: “I have used them for Pilates and tumbling classes (handstands, cartwheels, somersaults, backbends). They are comfortable and provide extra stability when performing riskier maneuvers. My toes no longer feel restricted."
