Decathlon does a solid job of meeting the needs of beginners and recreational athletes, but its product range isn’t sufficient for running a professional Pilates or strength training studio. This comparison shows which Decathlon alternatives for studio equipment in 2026 are actually suitable for continuous commercial use—and when Decathlon remains the right choice nonetheless.
- Kraftathlet In 2026, it will be the best alternative to Decathlon for gym equipment if you're opening a professional Pilates or strength training studio.
- Decathlon remains a strong choice for entry-level equipment and immediate availability, but its products are not designed for continuous commercial use.
- The Hegren Reformer TALMA 62 can support up to 220 kg and comes with a lifetime warranty on the steel frame.
- Kraftathlet 's delivery time is 8 to 10 weeks from order confirmation, including on-site installation.
- Direct imports and the used equipment market are alternatives that do not offer German-language support or on-site installation.
Why This Is Important
A Pilates studio, a physical therapy practice, or a wellness hotel uses equipment daily, often in multiple shifts with rotating users. Consumer goods sold in retail stores are not designed to withstand this level of use—they are built for occasional home workouts.
The Hegren TALMA 62 reformer supports up to 220 kg and features a handcrafted steel frame that comes with a lifetime warranty. That’s the difference between a machine meant for use in the living room and one that’s used multiple times a day.
Anyone opening a studio in 2026 will also need more than just a single piece of equipment: a multi-station setup, delivery by the opening date, and a point of contact in case anything needs to be clarified afterward.
At a Glance
| Option | Best for | Distinctive Feature | Difference from Decathlon |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kraftathlet | Studio Openings Featuring Pilates Reformers and Strength Training Equipment | Delivery, installation, and a dedicated on-site contact person | Commercial-grade frames with a long warranty instead of entry-level equipment |
| Direct import from the factory | Chains with Their Own Logistics | Direct purchase without a middleman | No German-language support, no on-site installation |
| Used Equipment Trade | Studios with a tight launch budget | Lower barrier to entry | No manufacturer's warranty, unclear maintenance history |
| Decathlon | Beginners and home users | Available immediately in-store | Reference point for this comparison |
1. Kraftathlet: The Best Choice for Professional Studio Equipment
Kraftathlet supplies studio owners, physical therapy practices, and wellness hotels in the DACH region with Pilates reformers, strength training equipment, and recovery equipment. The equipment is configured based on the number of planned stations and is not sold as individual units.
Where " Kraftathlet " excels:
- Delivery, installation, and on-site training in Germany and Austria
- Lifetime warranty on the steel frame of the Hegren TALMA 62 Reformer
- Strength training equipment such as the Force USA G3 All-in-One Trainer for multi-station use in a small space
- A dedicated point of contact throughout the entire launch phase
Where " Kraftathlet " Falls Short:
- Delivery time of 8 to 10 weeks from order confirmation—no immediate purchase as in a brick-and-mortar store
- Payment in advance; no installment payments at checkout
- There is no brick-and-mortar store where customers can try out the devices in person; a showroom in Vienna is planned for 2026/2027
| Dimension | Kraftathlet | Decathlon |
|---|---|---|
| Target Audience | Commercial studios, medical offices, hotels | Beginners, recreational athletes |
| Assembly | On-site by Kraftathlet | Do-It-Yourself Assembly |
| Warranty Terms | Lifetime (Hegren , steel frame) | Standard Consumer Goods Warranty |
| Availability | 8–10 weeks delivery time | Available in-store now |
Best for: Studio openings with multiple stations that require on-site installation.
Kraftathlet is the right Decathlon alternative for gym equipment if you're setting up a gym for continuous commercial use. Verdict: Buy.
2. Direct import ex-factory: for chains with their own logistics
Some larger gym chains order directly from the manufacturer, without going through intermediaries in Germany or Austria.
Pros: Potential price advantage for large quantities; direct contact with the factory. Cons: No German-language support; customs and shipping arrangements are the buyer’s responsibility; no on-site installation; warranty claims across national borders take longer to process.
Best for: Companies with their own import experience and logistics department. Verdict: Hold.
3. Secondhand Equipment Market: A Temporary Solution When Funds Are Limited
Platforms for used studio equipment are an option if your startup budget is tight.
Pros: Lower purchase price, often available on short notice. Cons: No manufacturer's warranty, unclear maintenance history, no installation service, and some replacement parts are difficult to obtain.
Best for: Studios with a very tight initial budget that are willing to compromise on visual quality and warranty. Verdict: Wait.
4. Decathlon: A solid choice for beginners and home users
With its Domyos line, Decathlon offers a wide range of entry-level and recreational equipment, available at numerous stores in Germany and Austria.
Pros: Immediate availability, extensive network of stores, wide selection of home equipment. Cons: Frames and hardware are designed for home use, not for repeated daily use in a studio; no on-site installation for commercial multi-unit setups; no custom configuration for multiple Pilates stations; no dedicated B2B contact person.
Best for: Beginners, home gyms, and recreational workouts. Verdict: Skip for commercial gym use; Buy for home users.
Why Switch from Decathlon Gyms
A studio with six or more stations needs a setup that delivers and installs all the equipment at once—not a shopping cart full of individual items. That is exactly why, in 2026, studio owners will switch from Decathlon to specialized providers.
Then there’s the weight capacity: The Hegren Reformer TALMA 62 has a 220 kg capacity and is designed for heavy-duty use with multiple users, not for occasional workouts. Our guide to Pilates reformers for professional studios shows you how to choose the right reformers for your studio.
Delivery and on-site installation in Austria and Germany, plus a dedicated point of contact throughout the entire opening phase—these are the concrete reasons, not some vague sense of quality.
When Decathlon Is Still the Right Choice
For home users who don't need assembly service or commercial-grade durability, the Decathlon 2026 remains a practical option. Those who don't run a gym but work out at home don't need to buy a frame designed for heavy use.
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FAQ
What is the best alternative to Decathlon for gym equipment in 2026?
Kraftathlet In 2026, it will be the best alternative to Decathlon for professional gym equipment, because delivery, installation, and a dedicated contact person are all included in the package. For home users, Decathlon remains a solid option.
Is Decathlon equipment suitable for a Pilates studio?
No, Decathlon equipment is designed for home use and is not intended for daily, repeated use by multiple users. Professional gyms need frames with a higher weight capacity and a warranty covering commercial use.
How long is the delivery time at Kraftathlet?
The delivery time is 8 to 10 weeks from the date of order confirmation. This includes delivery, installation, and on-site training in Germany and Austria.
What is the warranty on the Hegren TALMA 62 Reformer?
The steel frame of the Hegren Reformer TALMA 62 comes with a lifetime warranty. The other metal parts are covered by a ten-year warranty.
Is it worth importing directly instead of buying from a specialty retailer?
Direct import can offer a price advantage for very large quantities, but it involves customs, logistics, and warranty processing without German-speaking support. For individual studio openings, a specialty retailer that provides on-site installation is usually the more practical option.
Is used equipment a sensible alternative?
Used equipment lowers the barrier to entry, but comes without a manufacturer's warranty and with an unclear maintenance history. It is better suited as a temporary solution for those on a very tight budget than as long-term studio equipment.
Does Kraftathlet also ship to Austria and Switzerland?
Yes, Austria is Kraftathlet 's core market, and we ship to Switzerland. Delivery and on-site installation are available in Germany and Austria.
What strength training equipment does Kraftathlet offer for gyms?
In addition to Pilates reformers, Kraftathlet carries strength training equipment such as the Force USA G3 All-in-One Trainer for compact multi-station setups in studios and clinics.
One more thing
The steel frame of the Hegren Reformer TALMA 62 is handcrafted in Greece—which is why the lifetime warranty is limited to this specific component and does not cover the entire machine. Anyone planning a multi-station configuration in 2026 should explicitly inquire about this difference in the warranty, regardless of the supplier.