The Pilates Small Barrel: A Studio Essential
Written by Taylor Kinsey
The Small (Mini) Barrel is a deceptively simple apparatus. Nothing more than a curve and two canvas straps, yet it transforms your workout in ways that feel both supportive and humbling. It hangs quietly on the studio wall, almost unassuming, until the moment you move alongside it and realize exactly why it’s a cornerstone of the Classical Pilates system.
Anatomy of the Pilates Small Barrel
Simply put, the Small Barrel is a gradual curve made of a wooden frame. It’s covered with padded upholstery that mirrors the cushion and signature feel of other Gratz Pilates apparatus. It’s speculated that Joseph Pilates was originally inspired by the structure of a wooden barrel itself, arranging planks to create its distinctive arc. The Small Barrel is part of the larger family of Pilates barrels including the Spine Corrector and Ladder Barrel- each thoughtfully built with identical curvatures, allowing the exercises to translate seamlessly from one barrel to another.
Alongside each side of the Small Barrel are two canvas straps held for stability and grounding. Lightweight and compact, the Small Barrel is both approachable and portable, which makes it a favorite in classical studios and home setups alike.
The Power of the Small Barrel
The Small Barrel’s repertoire blends exercises seen on the Reformer, Cadillac, and matwork, making it an integral part of the Classical Pilates system. Use it to train spinal mobility and articulation with exercises like Roll Back and Roll Over, to challenge the powerhouse with abdominal series and leg series, and to improve spinal extension with movements such as Swan and arm circles.
Its gentle curve supports the body just enough while still asking your muscles to do the work. The barrel is not to be rested on or lounged against, rather, its surface is meant to be used to illuminate deeper connections to your powerhouse. All in all, the movements are challenging, rewarding, and downright craveable.
A Classical Pilates Apparatus for Everyone
The Small Barrel benefits movers of all ages and abilities. Beginners can use it to practice the C-curve with the support and feedback of its gentle arc. Advanced movers can challenge themselves with weight-bearing exercises like Leg Pull Up, Push Ups, or Star. Its raised surface also supports prenatal bodies, offering comfortable elevation for abdominal engagement, breathwork, and supported mobility.
The Small Barrel is also a gift for anyone with a tight back. It provides a safe place to practice spinal extension, open the chest, mobilize the side body, or release tension in the lower back- all movement patterns that counteract the weight of modern life.
The Small Barrel is versatile enough to shape an entire session, serve as a quick mid-day movement break, or provide the perfect finisher to your workout. Whether you have 10 minutes or an hour, you can achieve a complete, well-rounded workout with this single apparatus.
Essential Exercises on the Small Barrel
Spine Stretch Forward
The Small Barrel can both modify and enhance Spine Stretch Forward. For individuals with tight hamstrings or lower backs, placing them on top of the Small Barrel helps achieve the essential flat-back lift at the start of the exercise. For those with greater mobility, the Small Barrel allows for an increased range of motion without locking out the knees, providing an added challenge while achieving the essential spinal stretch.
Leg Series
The leg series is a staple in the Small Barrel repertoire teaching pelvic stability while strengthening the powerhouse. The movement mirrors the choreography of leg springs on the Cadillac just without the springs. The work comes from using the abdominals to anchor into the barrel while controlling the large range of motion through the legs. A grounded grip on the canvas straps are not to be overlooked keeping the upper body active, open, and fully integrated into the exercise.
Shoulder Bridge
As if Shoulder Bridge on the mat weren’t challenging enough, enter the Small Barrel. The aim is to mold your spine into the arc of the barrel, using your arms to draw the curve into your back. With one leg reaching to the sky and the other firmly rooted into the mat, both legs stay active while the pelvis works to remain steady. The Small Barrel becomes the perfect partner for teaching true hip extension while encouraging the spine to stay grounded.
The Small Barrel at Physical Studios
The Sky Blue Small Barrel is one of the most used and most beloved apparatus at Physical Studios. I like to bookend my day with it: One Hundred, Roll Downs, and the Abdominal Series in the morning before teaching begins, and then Leg Series in the evening to unwind, decompress my spine, and get that full-body exhale that happens the moment your legs drape over the barrel.
Having a studio in Los Angeles means the majority of my clients are in the film industry- writers, producers, directors, composers, actors, costume and set designers, and technical support all who spend their days moving and holding heavy equipment or draped over a screen. The Small Barrel is their relief- the antithesis of their job demands. One of my favorite things to witness is the lightbulb moment my clients get when their mid-back and chest finally open thanks to the Small Barrel’s arc. It’s the kind of physiological change that only Pilates can deliver- a refreshed mind, body and spirit.
The Small Barrel meets you exactly where you are. Whether you're in the mood for an energetic twist on the matwork or craving something steadier and more grounding, it delivers.
What Makes the Gratz Small Barrel the Real Deal
Unlock your spine with the Gratz Pilates Small Barrel. Crafted with quality and precision, rooted in Joseph Pilates’ original design, it guides spinal articulation, engages your powerhouse, and elevates every movement in your practice.
About Taylor Kinsey
Taylor Kinsey has been practicing movement for as long as she can remember. She was first introduced to Pilates while earning her BFA in dance at The Boston Conservatory. Shortly after graduating she obtained her comprehensive Pilates certification from Alycea Ungaro’s Real Pilates program and moved to Los Angeles where she taught under Saul Choza of Winsor Choza Pilates for five years. Under Saul’s mentorship and guidance she found her voice as a teacher, and grew a deep love for the Pilates system.
In 2024 Taylor opened Physical Studios — a private Pilates studio in Highland Park, Los Angeles. She’s passionate about helping her clients reimagine their physical capabilities through the Pilates method. Her years of movement training enable her to deliver true results to her clients whether they are engaging in exercise for the first time or deepening their current practice.
Taylor is a lifelong learner. She is a certified personal trainer through the National Academy of Sports Medicine, and is always deep into research studies, podcasts, and books surrounding the human body and biomechanics. For more of Taylor’s writing and work, follow her on Instagram.