Barrels and Arcs

Barrels and arcs are essential Pilates apparatus designed to support the natural curve of the spine during stretching, strengthening and flexibility exercises. These curved surfaces allow practitioners to work through a greater range of motion than mat work alone, making them valuable tools for spinal health, posture correction and core development.

Pilates Barrels and Arcs for Spinal Health and Flexibility

Elina Pilates offers a comprehensive range of barrels and arcs suited to home users, studios and rehabilitation clinics. Each piece features high-density EVA foam padding, non-slip synthetic leather upholstery and durable construction designed for intensive daily use.

Ladder Barrels — The Complete Spinal Apparatus

The ladder barrel is one of the most versatile pieces of classical Pilates equipment. It combines a curved barrel surface with a ladder of rungs, allowing practitioners to perform deep stretches, back extensions, side bends and strengthening exercises with support and control.

Elina Pilates ladder barrels are available with wooden or steel bases:

The Ladder Barrel features a traditional wooden base with wooden rungs and adjustable barrel-to-ladder distance. It suits studios that prefer a classical aesthetic.

The Ladder Barrel with Steel offers enhanced durability with a steel structure and cushioned rubber-coated rungs. The steel construction provides excellent stability for intensive studio use.

For additional functionality, the Ladder Barrel Elite Model and Ladder Barrel with Steel Elite Model include padded foot platforms that enable a wider range of exercises and multiple working heights.

Spine Correctors — Targeted Spinal Support

Spine correctors (also known as step barrels) are smaller curved apparatus designed for stretching and strengthening the torso, shoulders, back and legs. Their compact size makes them ideal for both studio use and home practice.

The Spine Corrector features aluminium handles and a barrel covered in non-slip synthetic leather with high-density EVA foam filling. It helps practitioners achieve greater spinal flexibility while strengthening abdominal and back muscles.

The Spine Corrector Elite offers enhanced features for professional studio environments.

For maximum versatility, the Spine Corrector 3-in-1 provides three interchangeable arc sizes that insert into a single base. This allows practitioners to choose low, mid or high arc positions depending on their flexibility level and exercise requirements.

Pilates Arcs — Versatile Mat Work Enhancement

Pilates arcs are lightweight, portable curved supports that add an extra dimension to mat work classes. They provide gentle spinal support while enabling a variety of stretching, core strengthening and balance exercises.

The Arc features handles on both sides and a gentle curve that suits practitioners of all levels. It can be used for back extensions, abdominal work, hip flexor stretches and supported side bending.

The Hollow Arc is a slight arch ideal for advanced group classes. Its open design and high-strength construction make it suitable for intensive studio use where multiple practitioners share equipment.

Benefits of Barrels and Arcs

Adding barrels and arcs to your Pilates practice offers several advantages:

• Spinal mobility — curved surfaces support safe extension, flexion and lateral movement
• Posture improvement — regular use helps correct rounded shoulders and tight hip flexors
• Core strengthening — the unstable surface challenges stabilising muscles
• Flexibility development — enables deeper stretches than flat mat work
• Rehabilitation support — controlled curves suit therapeutic exercise programs

Choosing the Right Barrel or Arc for your Pilates workout

For home practitioners with limited space, the Spine Corrector or Arc provides excellent value in a compact format.

For studios and clinics, the Ladder Barrel is the most complete option, enabling the full range of classical barrel exercises. The Elite models with foot platforms offer additional versatility for diverse client needs.

For mat-based group classes, the Arc and Hollow Arc add variety without requiring significant floor space or investment.

Browse our full range of Pilates equipment to build a complete studio or home setup.