The Pilates chair — sometimes called a Wunda Chair or stability chair — is one of the original pieces of apparatus Joseph Pilates designed. It looks deceptively simple: a padded platform with one or two pedals attached by springs. In practice it’s one of the most demanding and versatile pieces of Pilates equipment available, and the range of exercises you can do on it is enormous.
Here’s a guide to the main options worth knowing about if you’re considering buying one.
Balanced Body Wunda Chair
The Wunda Chair is the most widely used Pilates chair in studios, and Balanced Body’s version is the benchmark. It’s based on Joseph Pilates’ original design and offers a broad range of spring resistance. Optional add-ons include handles and a high back, which significantly extend the exercise repertoire. A well-made, long-lasting piece of kit.
Balanced Body EXO Chair
The EXO is Balanced Body’s more compact option — smaller footprint, easier to move and store. It doesn’t sacrifice sturdiness for size, which is impressive. A good choice for home use where space is limited but you want a proper studio-quality chair rather than something designed primarily for beginners.
Merrithew Split-Pedal Stability Chair (STOTT PILATES)
Merrithew’s chair uses a split-pedal design, which allows you to work each leg independently — useful for rehabilitation work, unilateral exercises, and adding asymmetrical challenge to your practice. The lockable handles allow exercises like lunges and dips. Double steel frame, very solid. One of the more comprehensive home options if you want to do full studio programming.
Peak Pilates MVE Chair
Built from anodized aluminium, the MVE is lightweight and durable — popular for personal training and small group settings where the chair gets moved around frequently. The wider pedal gives a good arc of motion and the spring system is easy to change between exercises. A reliable option if portability within a studio or home gym matters.
AeroPilates Precision Chair
AeroPilates targets the home user who is already doing Pilates and wants to add a chair to their practice. It comes with guided workout videos and has an adjustable two-spring resistance system. Compact, with anti-skid endcaps. It won’t replace a full studio chair for advanced work, but it’s a practical and well-priced option for home use.
Elina Pilates Combo Chair
The Combo Chair stands out because it functions as both a Pilates chair and a regular seat — useful if you’re tight on space and want the equipment to double as furniture. Four spring positions, two spring strengths, removable handles, and built-in wheels for moving it around. The dual-use design is genuinely clever rather than a gimmick.
What to consider before buying
Pilates chairs are a significant investment and not the most beginner-friendly piece of equipment. If you’re new to Pilates, the reformer is a more accessible starting point. The chair rewards people who already have a strong Pilates foundation and want to extend their home practice.
Key questions to ask before buying:
- Do you want split or single pedals? Split pedals allow unilateral work; single pedals are more traditional.
- Do you need handles? Some chairs include them, others offer them as add-ons. Handles open up a significantly wider range of exercises.
- How important is portability? Studio chairs are heavy. If you need to move it regularly, lighter aluminium-frame options are worth the premium.
- What’s your budget? Expect to pay £500–£1,500+ for a quality chair. Cheaper options exist but tend to compromise on build quality and spring feel.
If possible, try a chair at a studio before buying — it’s the most reliable way to know whether the type of work it offers suits your practice.
