Mat Pilates vs. Reformer Pilates: Which One Is Right for You?
Perhaps Pilates has landed on your radar recently and piqued your interest. In an effort to investigate, maybe you perform a cursory search on Instagram. Maybe you are floored by what you see: the springs, the bars, the platforms, the rings, the mats. To the long-time Pilates practitioner, this is all standard fare, but to the Pilates novice, this might appear to be a wonderland of physical and acrobatic intensity. Perhaps you decide to take your search a bit further, and you discover that Pilates is often corralled into two types: Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates. Both forms of Pilates stem from the same foundational principles originally developed by Joseph Pilates—control, precision, breath, centering, concentration and flow—however, they offer distinct experiences.
What Is Mat Pilates?
Mat Pilates is exactly what it sounds like—a sequence of movements performed on the floor using a padded mat. A Pilates mat is thicker than a standard yoga mat in order to provide more support for the spine and joints. Mat Pilates relies primarily on body weight as resistance, along with occasional props like resistance bands, small weights, Pilates rings or balls to add variety or intensity. Here are a few benefits of Mat Pilates:
Mat Pilates can be done anywhere you can lay your mat—at home, in a studio, on the top of a mountain, on a large boat, etc.
It is focused on foundational movements and helps you build a strong core by teaching you to move with control using just your body.
Generally Mat Pilates is more affordable than reformer classes, and there are many routines available online.
Mat Pilates is perfect for beginners or anyone looking to focus on Pilates fundamentals. It’s also great for minimalists.
What Is Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates uses a specialized piece of equipment called a reformer—a flat, bed-like platform that rolls back and forth on wheels within a frame. The reformer features adjustable springs for changing the resistance (similar to adding/decreasing weight on a cable machine at the gym), a sliding carriage, foot bar, straps and pulleys. This setup allows for a wide range of motion and customized resistance levels. Here are a few benefits of Reformer pilates:
The reformer provides assistance (and resistance!) making it easier for some people to perform Pilates movements with proper technique and alignment.
The resistance from the springs goes beyond just using body weight—the reformer makes movements more intense and targeted.
Because of the support and versatility, reformer Pilates is often used in physical therapy to aid in recovery.
Reformer Pilates is often the choice for intermediate to advanced Pilates practitioners or people who are looking for a more dynamic workout.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
If you're new to Pilates, starting with mat classes can help you build foundational strength and understand the core principles. If you're looking for more variety or want to challenge your muscles in different ways, the reformer offers a dynamic (and adjustable) workout. If you’re recovering from an injury or you have mobility limitations, a reformer class with a trained instructor could offer the focus and oversight you need.
It should be noted that the Classical Pilates experience (as Joseph Pilates intended!) involves the practice of the complete system using the mat, reformer, wunda chair, cadillac, barrels and the smaller apparatus. Mat and Reformer Pilates complement each other beautifully—practicing one or the other is only half the story, but good for getting your feet wet! Both styles are excellent for improving posture, flexibility and muscular endurance. Many Pilates enthusiasts alternate between Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates to keep their workouts varied and balanced.
Whether you prefer the simplicity of the mat or the versatility of the reformer, Pilates has something to offer everyone. Explore both, listen to your body, and choose what aligns best with your fitness goals. The beauty of Pilates lies in its adaptability—and once you find your groove, your body (and mind) will thank you.
At The Pilates Room NYC, we incorporate Mat and Reformer Pilates. Though we are a Classical Pilates studio, we offer two different types of reformers: the wooden reformers that are slightly more modern, and the original metal reformers, manufactured by Gratz. Both reformer types offer benefits and different ways to challenge the body. We encourage our clients to workout on both!
We also incorporate Mat Pilates into workouts and feel that alternating between Mat and Reformer Pilates can help switch up the stimulus and challenge the body in a number of ways. Visit our website to learn more, and get 15% off your first one-on-one Pilates session!