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As a fitness writer for CNET, I’ve tried many exercise machines and classes, but one has always intimidated me: Reformer Pilates. I’ve taken reformative Pilates classes in the past, and every time, it feels like a whole new experience when I jump on the bandwagon. However, I’ve always believed that just because something is difficult doesn’t mean I can’t do it.
When I heard that NordicTrack had launched their own smart repair tool, I knew I had to try it. the Ultra 1 reformer Intended for home use, giving you the restorative Pilates experience in the privacy of your living room without the fear of face-planting in a room full of people.
I was invited by the brand to demo their latest device during a 30-minute class, and from the start I was impressed by its design and features. These are my thoughts on NordicTrack’s latest repair machine and whether or not I would recommend purchasing one.
The Ultra 1 Reformer from NordicTrack is amazing
The NordicTrack Ultra 1 Reformer is designed with safety in mind and to fit your home.
The first thing you’ll notice about the Ultra 1 Reformer is its sleek aesthetic. You can tell its designers thought it through, keeping in mind what would make a Pilates reformer machine look less ugly in your living room, while making it a functional piece of exercise equipment. But at $5,000, it’s not cheap; It is a suitable investment for people who will use it often.
This machine is on the larger side, measuring 111.3 x 30.6 x 33.7 inches, make sure you have room to hold it and space around it if you also plan to do floor exercises. The front of the cart includes a 24-inch HD touchscreen that swivels and rotates for convenient use when you’re doing other floor exercises besides the Ultra 1.
The machine itself is completely black with a light wood finish on the edges and at the end of the carriage, giving it a sophisticated look. It also does not have an exposed hand spring to adjust the resistance. Instead, the Ultra 1 has a locking spring that changes electronically when one of its three buttons is pressed down. The buttons are different colors: red, blue, and green, and each one corresponds to a different resistance level ranging from 22 to 99 pounds.
Like traditional reformers, the Ultra 1 has foot straps that you can adjust based on the exercise you’re doing. There are also straps on each side, attached to a pulley, for the hands and feet.
How to access Pilates classes at NordicTrack
You can access different Pilates classes in the iFIT exercise library.
You can use the device without an iFit subscription, however, if you want to access 200 Pilates classes and view your performance metrics on the screen while you work out. I recommend getting it iFit Pro Membership ($39 per month).
An iFit membership also gives you access to 10,000 classes covering a variety of exercises. Additionally, it allows you to create up to five additional profiles if you have family members interested in using the Ultra 1 or attending other iFit classes.
What it’s like to work out on the Ultra 1 Reformer
We went through several different reformative Pilates exercises during the NordicTrack demo.
The stroller glides smoothly and makes no noise, which is ideal if you are trying to keep noise to a minimum in your home.
NordicTrack designed this repairman with safety in mind. With a “smart spine” that keeps the springs locked within the spine of the track, children and pets are less likely to touch them and hurt themselves. It also gives the device a cleaner look.
It was easy to switch between different resistance levels on this reformer. Since the machine doesn’t allow you to switch resistance unless the cart is parallel to the front platform of the reformer, it also seemed safer than a regular reformer because you’re not at risk of falling through the front opening.
The machine also sits 30.6 inches off the ground, which is perfect if you’re new to reformer Pilates and are afraid of heights. I comfortably did several exercises, such as sit-ups, side splits, single-leg hip extensions and hip bridges, to get used to the machine.
With an iFit Pro membership, the Ultra 1 monitor displays vital metrics from your performance in real time. These include watts (power output), stroke rate (cadence), and calories burned.
Is the NordicTrack Ultra 1 Reformer worth it?
I enjoyed experiencing the NordicTrack Ultra 1 Reformer first hand, and if I had the space, I would own one. However, the price is hefty, which I can see discouraging some shoppers from adding it to their cart.
If you’re already investing in reformer Pilates classes, you may find that owning your own Smart Reformer is a better investment. Keep in mind that you’ll also need to sign up for a $35 per month iFit subscription to access all Pilates classes. Accessories — such as a jumping board, head support, box, and repair mat — all cost extra, ranging from $70 to $250.
If you have an FSA or HSA account, you may also be eligible to use these funds toward a purchase.
One of the benefits of ordering the Ultra 1 Reformer is that the device is fully assembled when it is delivered to your home. All you have to do is lift the touch screen and connect it.
Ultimately, it comes down to whether reformer Pilates is your primary form of exercise and whether a $5,000 machine is in your budget. If you’re committed to this type of exercise, you’ll appreciate the features the Ultra 1 Reformer offers, and it doesn’t hurt that it looks like it could be easily integrated into your bedroom or living room.
