Barrels and Arcs

Barrels are one of the key original Pilates apparatus designed by Joseph Pilates, with the original likely being made from a beer barrel. Together with arcs and Step Barrels (Spine Correctors), they are intended for exercises that increase flexibility and mobility of the body and strengthen muscles (including deep muscles). Along with reformers and chairs, they enable comprehensive training.

This unique type of equipment can be easily used by both beginners and advanced users. The curved shape of the barrel, Step Barrel, and Pilates arc is perfect for stretching exercises, especially for those experiencing back pain. These exercises improve back flexibility, posture, balance, and coordination.

Despite their seemingly simple construction, advanced training with this Pilates equipment can be quite challenging and is suitable for professional studios as well as home use. The built-in ladder (Ladder Barrel), which supports the feet or hands, provides greater stability and safety, expanding training possibilities. Meanwhile, the compact size of Step Barrels and arcs makes them easy to store and transport, and they can be used independently or as part of exercises with other Pilates machines, such as the reformer.

Balanced Body users can choose traditional designs that faithfully recreate or are inspired by Joe Pilates’ original apparatus (with wooden construction and padded upholstery for comfort) or modern versions—light yet extremely durable, made from high-density foam.

Ladder Barrel for Pilates with adjustable sliding base and foam padding.

Ladder Barrel

A resistant and durable Pilates barrel with a ladder for stretching and strengthening exercises. Stable, comfortable, and adjustable to every user.
  • Easy adjustment of the distance between the barrel and the ladder with a foot pedal
  • Durable structure made of maple wood
  • Easy-grip handles
  • Comfortable triple foam padding
  • Additional pole for increased range of exercises
  • Limited 10-year warranty
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Reinforced maple wood Pilates barrel with vinyl upholstery.

Contrology Ladder Barrel

A design that recreates Joseph Pilates’ original barrel design. The most stable and easiest to adjust classic barrel available on the market nowadays.
  • Intuitive and easily adjustable distance of the ladder from the barrel
  • Robust and highly stable frame made of maple wood
  • Easy-grip handles
  • Dense, high-quality foam for maximum comfort during exercise
  • Limited 10-year warranty
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East Coast Step Barrel for Pilates with metal handles

East Coast Step Barrel

A barrel with gentle contouring and the highest level of comfort accommodating users of all skills and body types. A reliable spine corrector that influences correct posture and improves flexibility.
  • For upper body, shoulder, and back strengthening exercises
  • Suitable for rehabilitation training
  • Contoured shape with a soft arch, shallow well, and rounded step edge
  • For use on flat surfaces (not on the Reformer)
  • Features practical integrated metal handles
  • Covered with premium dense, foam padding and heavy-duty upholster
  • Limited 10-year warranty
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Clara Step Barrel with black upholstery and wooden frame.

Clara Step Barrel

A barrel designed in honour of Clara Pilates based on the design of the apparatus she used. It stands out due to its distinctive design with cut-out handles and a steep high arch.
  • Used for spinal exercises, muscle strengthening and stretching
  • High arch and sharp angle of the seat for precise pelvic and spinal alignment
  • Vertical cut-out handholds for better control during exercise
  • Comfortable, heavy-duty upholstery
  • For use on a flat surface – on the floor or a mat (not on the Reformer)
  • Limited 10-year warranty
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Clara Step Barrel Lite in durable black foam with rounded arch.

Clara Step Barrel Lite

All the functionality of the original Clara Step Barrel in a more practical, lightweight, and cost-effective version. Thanks to that it can be easily moved and stored, which facilitates conducting a group training in the studio or perform exercises at home.
  • Modern version of the classic Clara Step Barrel
  • Used for exercises that strengthen abdominal muscles, improve flexibility of back muscles and spine
  • Can be used on a mat or safely and easily attached, by means of handles, to a reformer
  • Exceptionally light and compact, easy to move and store
  • The same high arch as in the original Clara Step Barrel
  • Made of durable, resistant, non-deformable foam
  • 1-year limited lifetime warranty
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Contrology Spine Corrector with metal handles and classic design.

Contrology Spine Corrector

A classic spine corrector based on the authentic step barrel design from the 1950s and 60s. Its unique profile and high-density, fairly firm foam provide an authentic experience during exercises and proper support for the torso, arms, back, and legs.
  • A classic barrel based on the original design, precisely replicating its angles and highly arched shape
  • Used for strengthening, stretching, and correcting spine curvature
  • The shape and profile ensure proper alignment of the spine and pelvis during exercises
  • Durable and lightweight upholstered frame with easy-to-clean vinyl covering
  • Equipped with metal handles
  • To be used on a flat surface (not on the reformer)
  • Limited 10-year warranty on the frame
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Contrology Small Barrel for Pilates with dense foam padding.

Contrology Small Barrel

An ergonomic Pilates training tool that promotes correct posture and spinal decompression. With its progressively profiled curvature, foam padding and lightweight design, it is ideal for strengthening and rehabilitation exercises.
  • Compact, classic barre for Pilates training on a mat
  • Lower curve facilitates proper positioning for lower and less mobile individuals
  • Gradual curve supports spinal decompression and reduces tension in the back and neck
  • Strengthens abdominal and core muscles to promote postural stability
  • Upholstered, dense foam padding provides comfort and proprioceptive feedback
  • Purpose: Contrology Folding Mat
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Pilates Arc for spine stretching and strengthening

Pilates Arc

A universal, two-piece arc combining the functionality of three Pilates tools: an arc (barrel), a spinal corrector and a reformer wedge. Light-weight, space-saving, perfect for home use and training in a Pilates studio.
  • Patented design consisting of two easily joined pieces
  • Can be used as an asymmetrical arc, a classic spinal corrector (Pilates Step Barrel) or a wedge supporting the back and shoulders during exercises on a reformer
  • Made of durable, resistant foam of high density
  • Exceptionally light (only 1.8 kg)
  • 1-year limited lifetime warranty
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PilatesAngle adaptive tool for Pilates by Balanced Body Polska.

PilatesAngle

A lightweight and durable exercise tool for use on a reformer and mat, designed for people who have difficulty lying on their backs. Thanks to its innovative 32° angle, it lifts the upper body and supports the cervical spine. It provides comfort and safety for pregnant women, seniors, people with back pain, limited mobility, and those recovering from injuries.
  • Allows you to perform exercises in a semi-reclining position with your upper body raised (32° incline)
  • Provides stable support for the neck and nape of the neck – recommended for pregnant women and people with neck problems
  • Ergonomic design – supports older people and those with limited mobility
  • Made of lightweight, durable high-density foam
  • Suitable for various types of exercises on the reformer, mat, and Cadillac
  • Optional accessory kit (cushion and resistance band) expands training possibilities
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