I Tried NordicTrack’s $5,000 Smart Pilates Reformer and It Won Me Over

The $5,000 NordicTrack Ultra 1 Reformer promises to eliminate the need for costly Pilates classes — and after a full test, it actually delivers. CNET's reviewer was won over by a machine that blends premium build quality with a surprisingly intuitive smart experience.

NordicTrack, a brand long synonymous with high-end home cardio equipment, has entered the Pilates space with the Ultra 1 Reformer. The unit costs $4,999 and aims to replicate the feel and function of a studio reformer while adding a 22-inch tilt-and-swivel touchscreen powered by iFit, the company's subscription-based fitness platform. The review, published on CNET, details weeks of testing and concludes that the machine is more than a novelty — it's a genuine alternative to dropping $30 per class indefinitely.

Pilates reformers have been a staple in fitness studios for decades, but home versions have often been either too flimsy for serious use or too expensive to justify. The NordicTrack Ultra 1 Reformer sits at the luxury end of the market, competing with brands like Balanced Body and Merrithew. What sets it apart is the integrated digital layer: live and on-demand classes, automatic resistance adjustments via a connected motor, and performance tracking. The review notes that the iFit subscription ($39 per month for a family plan) adds a recurring cost, but that many users will still save compared to studio memberships.

Key specs include a steel frame, a padded carriage, adjustable springs for resistance, and the aforementioned screen that pivots so you can follow classes from any angle. The reviewer also highlighted the smoothness of the ropes and pulleys, which is critical for controlled, low-impact movements. A notable detail: the machine folds up when not in use, a feature that's rare at this price point. The article also mentions that NordicTrack offers a 30-day return policy and financing options starting at $99 per month.

Industry observers see this as part of a broader shift toward connected home fitness — a trend accelerated by the pandemic. Companies like Peloton led the way with spin bikes and treadmills, and now other modalities are getting the smart treatment. The NordicTrack Ultra 1 Reformer specifically targets a demographic that values convenience and is willing to pay a premium for technology that guides and motivates them. However, analysts caution that the high upfront cost and subscription requirement may limit adoption to affluent households.

Looking ahead, NordicTrack will likely continue to expand its smart equipment lineup. The Ultra 1 Reformer sets a benchmark for digital Pilates, and competitors may follow with their own offerings. For consumers, the next milestone to watch is whether iFit expands its Pilates content library and introduces more advanced programming. If the machine holds up over years of use — and the review suggests it will — this could redefine how Pilates is performed at home.