If you've been thinking about trying Pilates but aren’t sure where to start, you’re not alone! Pilates has become incredibly popular as a low-impact workout that anyone can do, no matter their age or fitness level. Here at Revive, Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates are two of our most-loved classes, and they both bring amazing benefits for core strength, flexibility, and overall wellness. But which one is right for you?
Let's dive in and break down the differences, benefits, and what each type can bring to your fitness routine!
What is Mat Pilates?
Mat Pilates is exactly what it sounds like—Pilates exercises done on a mat. It focuses on foundational movements, using your own body weight for resistance, so there’s no need for fancy equipment. This makes it super accessible, affordable, and a great choice if you want a simple but effective way to build strength and flexibility.
Mat Pilates is ideal if you’re just getting started with Pilates or if you like the idea of practising at home. It’s especially great for building core stability, improving flexibility, and increasing body awareness. Plus, once you learn the basics, you can do it pretty much anywhere.
What is Reformer Pilates?
Now, Reformer Pilates is a bit different because it involves a special machine called the Reformer. With a sliding carriage, springs, and adjustable straps, the Reformer creates resistance to guide you through movements in a more controlled way. It’s incredible for targeting specific muscles and can help you work on alignment, strength, and even injury recovery.
The Reformer can look a bit intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll find it opens up a whole new world of exercises you just can’t achieve on a mat. It’s a fantastic option if you’re looking for a more intense, full-body workout or need a bit more support and guidance in your movements.
Related blog: What is Reformer Pilates?
Key Differences Between Mat and Reformer Pilates
1. Equipment
Mat Pilates needs just a mat, whereas Reformer Pilates uses the Reformer machine. The equipment makes a big difference in the way the exercises feel and the level of resistance you experience.
2. Intensity
Reformer Pilates can offer a more intense workout, thanks to those adjustable springs that add resistance to each movement. On the mat, you’re mostly using your body weight, which is great for core stability but doesn’t provide the same level of resistance as the Reformer. Having said this, the Reformer offers a kind of support to beginners that Mat Pilates doesn’t. The Reformer table acts as a support system so by adjusting the springs to a lower setting, beginners are able to workout at an intensity that is right for them, with the support of the Reformer there for security.
3. Accessibility and Cost
Mat Pilates is extremely accessible and can be done anywhere with minimal cost. On the other hand, Reformer Pilates is usually done in a studio with trained instructors, like the team here at Revive. Again, because of the cost of the reformer equipment and the need for smaller class sizes, Reformer classes tend to be more costly than Mat Pilates studio classes. While it may be a bit more of an investment, the guidance and equipment can be well worth it.
4. Range of Motion
One of the coolest things about the Reformer is that it allows for a greater range of motion in your movements, which you can’t always get on a mat. This makes it excellent for improving flexibility and stretching in a controlled way.
Benefits of Mat Pilates
Core Stability and Flexibility: Mat Pilates focuses on building a strong core and improving flexibility, which is great for overall movement and stability.
Beginner-Friendly: Perfect if you’re new to Pilates or want to work on the basics.
Accessibility: Since you don’t need any special equipment, you can do Mat Pilates almost anywhere, which is a bonus if you’re travelling or practising at home.
Mind-Body Connection: Mat Pilates encourages body awareness and control, which can benefit all areas of fitness.
Benefits of Reformer Pilates
Strength and Conditioning: The Reformer provides resistance that’s perfect for strength-building and toning.
Customisable Intensity: You can adjust the springs to make exercises easier or harder, so it’s great for all fitness levels, even beginners.
Alignment and Posture: The Reformer guides your movements, making it easier to focus on alignment and improve posture.
Injury Rehabilitation: Reformer Pilates is gentle on the joints and can be adapted to support injury recovery with the right guidance from an instructor. Again, the Reformer table can act as a great support especially for those with back injuries that have even found yoga or Pilates a struggle in the past.
Who Should Choose Mat Pilates?
Beginners: If you’re new to Pilates, Mat Pilates is a great starting point to learn the basic moves and principles.
People on a Budget: Since it doesn’t require any equipment, Mat Pilates can be a more budget-friendly option.
Flexibility-Focused: If you want to work on flexibility and core strength without intense resistance, Mat Pilates is perfect.
Home Practice Fans: Love working out at home? Mat Pilates is easy to incorporate into your daily routine without the need for any special equipment.
Who Should Choose Reformer Pilates?
Those Seeking a Full-Body Workout: Reformer Pilates offers a more intense, whole-body workout thanks to the added resistance.
Strength Builders: If you’re looking to improve strength and muscle tone, the Reformer is your best friend.
People with Specific Goals: The Reformer is fantastic for people with specific fitness or rehab goals, as it can be tailored to target precise muscle groups.
Fans of Guided Movement: If you benefit from structure and enjoy working with a trained instructor, Reformer Pilates at Revive is a great choice.
Beginners: Again, the support that the Reformer offers can often enable beginners to get even more out of their workout than Mat Pilates as there is less room for error with the table and straps helping to guide your movements.
Why Try Both at Revive?
At Revive, we love mixing things up, and many of our members do both Mat and Reformer Pilates to get the best of both worlds. Mat Pilates helps build core strength and stability, while Reformer Pilates offers a more targeted, full-body workout and support for injury rehab. Newbies have previously said that at first they felt a little intimidated by the reformer, however after their first class they realised there was absolutely nothing to worry about! Our amazing team of friendly instructors are there to show you exactly what to do so you’ll never have to worry.
Like we said, there are enormous benefits to both types of classes, so combining them can keep your routine fresh, fun, and effective!
Our classes are designed to be accessible and friendly, with our experienced instructors guiding you every step of the way. Whether you want to start with the basics on the mat or dive into the Reformer, there’s a place for you here at Revive.
Related blog: Is Reformer Pilates good for beginners?
Conclusion
So, Mat or Reformer Pilates? It all comes down to your personal goals and preferences. Both offer unique benefits and can help you feel stronger, more flexible, and in tune with your body. Our suggestion, why not give both a try and see which style suits you best?
If you’re ready to get started then we’d love to have you in one of our classes. We offer a range of class packs with several offers so you can come and give us a try without the commitment of a membership.
We hope to see you on the mat/ Reformer very soon!
