Merrithew has launched its first wood Pilates reformer, a piece of professional fitness equipment designed for boutique studios, premium fitness clubs, hotels and wellness centres.
The Toronto-based company, which created the STOTT PILATES movement system, introduced the NX3 MAX Reformer recently. The equipment features an FSC-certified maple frame, a larger carriage and adjustments intended to reduce setup time for instructors.
The launch expands Merrithew’s equipment portfolio with a wood model developed in collaboration with its engineering team and experienced Pilates instructors. The company said the design was shaped by feedback from instructors who tested prototypes through its Advisory Lab.
“Our connection to the instructor community gives us an extraordinary testing ground. We combined their real-world experience with our engineering expertise to create a wood Reformer where design and performance work together at every touchpoint. The NX3 MAX is built to elevate the experience for the client, the instructor and the studio.” said Jim Heidenreich, CEO, Merrithew.
Instructor feedback shapes design
Merrithew developed the NX3 MAX with its engineers, STOTT PILATES Master Instructor Trainers and instructors from other Pilates methods. The company said the development process focused on how clients use the equipment and how instructors manage exercises and transitions during classes.
The reformer’s carriage measures 26 by 40 inches, making it the largest Merrithew has produced to date. The company said the additional space is intended to accommodate a wider range of body types and allow greater freedom of movement during exercises.
The equipment also features an EasyShift Gearbar that allows instructors to change resistance across four positions without removing springs. The adjustment system is intended to reduce the time required to reset equipment between exercises.
Extended rails and longer carriage travel provide additional range of motion, while an eight-wheel rolling system is designed to deliver a smooth, quiet glide. Merrithew also incorporated FastLock shoulder rests, which secure with a single twist, and a locking footbar that can be set in four positions.
A multi-position platform extender provides an expanded movement surface for additional exercises and positions, adding to the equipment’s programming options.
Wood design targets premium facilities
The NX3 MAX combines its functional features with a natural maple frame, elongated lines and curved edges. Merrithew is positioning the equipment for professional facilities that want their Pilates equipment to complement the design of their studios and other fitness spaces.
The company said the reformer is intended for boutique studios, premium fitness clubs, hotels and wellness centres seeking to distinguish their facilities and offer clients a premium exercise environment.
The frame is made from FSC-certified maple, which Merrithew says brings a natural wood finish to professional fitness settings. The company’s announcement also emphasizes the equipment’s appearance as part of its intended role in studio environments.
Company background
Merrithew describes itself as a global provider of mindful movement education and equipment. Founded in 1988, the company developed the STOTT PILATES Movement System and has expanded its portfolio to include Align-Pilates and the GYROTONIC organization.
Merrithew said it has trained more than 100,000 instructors in over 135 countries. Its business includes instructor training, fitness equipment, digital resources, business tools and a global professional network.
The company supplies equipment and education to studios, rehabilitation centres and fitness professionals, according to its corporate overview. The NX3 MAX adds a wood reformer to its equipment range, with the product developed for professional settings where equipment design and class functionality are both considerations.
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