Essential Affordable Props for Every Pilates Studio

This post outlines essential props for Pilates Studios without breaking the bank. Photo Credit: Freepik

5/3/20262 min read

Photo Credit: Freepik.com

Affordable Must-Have Essentials For All Pilates Studios

There are so many props out there these days that it can feel overwhelming and expensive. Most props are nice to haves, but there are certain pieces of equipment and props that every Pilates studio should have. All pricing in this post is accurate as of date published.

Wedge

The wedge is critical to offer for your pregnant clients once they enter their second trimester. You can offer to prop them up in other ways, but a wedge makes it more comfortable than most other options. The wedge isn't just for pregancy--it can be a great tool for others with vertigo, for example.

While some name brand wedges can run upwards of $200/each. Here are a few more affordable options:

$89 - Black
$79 - Tan
$113 - Black
$78- Black

Magic Circle / Pilates Ring / Magic Ring / Pilates Circle

While this prop can be referred to in many different ways, it's a staple within the method. Name brand variations can set you back $35 , or even $55! But you can find them for a fraction of the price for similar quality:

$10.69 - Black
$9.49 - Black
$13.99 - Various Colors

Pilates Ball

Pilates balls are great for improving alignment, using as a pillow or reducing lower back pain. I like to have two version--one fully inflated and one half inflated to use for different purposes. The ideal diameter is 8"-9". Bougie balls can set you back $30. You don't need to spend that though.

Pilates Mat

Even if you are a Reformer studio, I think it's critical to have mats available for instructors to mix in some floor work. Having mats available also comes in handy for offering special events or offsite collaborations. It's a low cost item that can add value to your studio. There are even Stakt dupes available that will run you half the price!

$42.49 - Folding Mat (Stakt dupe)
$24.98 - Thick Rolling Mat
$14.98 - Pink/Purple Wide Mat

Grips

Grip pads are essential to have on hand for the inevitable times someone's clothing is slick and sliding on the box or their hands get sweaty. Grip pads are versatile and come in handy when you least expect it. While they market Pilates Grip Pads in a pack of two for $6.99, all you really need is a roll of shelf liner cut to size.

$3.29 - Tan
$5.49 - Various Colors (Large Sheet)

Nice To Haves

Spine Corrector

A spine corrector isn't a tool you will use everyday, unless you take a lot of Private Lesson, however; studios that have a Spine Corrector do come off as an authority in the method. It's a great tool during private sessions, as well. A name brand variation will set you back $189, but there are options to save you $100+:

$89.99
$87.99

Maple Pole

This is another one where having a maple pole around shows your studio's commitment to staying close to the method. The good news is it doesn't really need to be maple--look for a dowel rod that is around 2-3 feet wide:

$18.90

Knee Pads

Cushions are good to have around if you have clients who suffer from joint pain when weight is placed on them. Knee pads can be used under knees, hands, hips, head, etc. Gardening knee pads are an affordable swap.

There is a world of other props that many studios carry and love. Some studios integrate other props into their signature class styles, but if you are on a budget and trying to prioritize, this is the list!