Mat vs. Reformer Pilates: Which Is Right for You?

Pilates With Natalia
Sep 7
4 min read

Pilates has grown far beyond a niche studio workout. It’s now one of the most popular ways to build strength, improve posture, and find balance in a busy life. But if you’re new, you’ve probably seen two main options: mat Pilates and reformer Pilates.

Both come from Joseph Pilates’ original method. Both will challenge your body in unique ways. But they’re not the same experience. Knowing the difference will help you choose what works for your lifestyle, goals, and budget.

What is Mat Pilates?

Mat Pilates is the most accessible entry point. You only need a mat and some space. Equipment like resistance bands, Pilates rings, or small balls are added for extra challenge, but they’re optional.

Movements are designed to build strength using your body weight. Think of controlled roll-ups, hundreds, planks, and leg lifts. The focus is always on the 8 Pilates principles, which include precision, alignment, control, and breath.

Why people love mat Pilates:

You can do it anywhere: your living room, gym, and even your hotel room.
No equipment costs beyond a good mat and inexpensive equipment if you are doing free Pilates online (or studio classes cost).
It teaches you the core principles of Pilates in a simple way.
It’s scalable for beginners but still extremely challenging at advanced levels.

For many, mat Pilates is the foundation. If you want to create a regular routine at home, this is the easiest way to start.

What is Reformer Pilates?

The reformer is a bed with a moving carriage, adjustable springs, straps, and a footbar. Don’t let it intimidate you; the machine is designed to support you while adding resistance.

The springs provide both assistance and challenge, and they come in different strengths! For example:

A roll-up on the reformer may feel easier because the springs help guide you.
A leg press against the footbar may feel harder because the springs add resistance and strength like a weight.

Why people love reformer Pilates:

It offers hundreds of exercise variations.
The resistance helps build strength and stability.
It can be tailored for injury rehab or extra challenge.
Many people find it more engaging than repeating mat moves.

Studios often guide reformer sessions, so you’ll get feedback and corrections. It’s structured, motivating, and feels very different from mat work.

Mat V. Reformer: Key Differences!

Here’s a side-by-side look:

Aspect	Mat Pilates	Reformer Pilates
Equipment	Just a mat (with optional equipment like light weights, a ball, a band, etc.)	Reformer machine with springs & straps
Accessibility	Can be done anywhere	Either in studios or if you own a machine
Cost	Lower: only a mat needed and you can do it for free at home	Much Higher: classes are expensive and buying a reformer costs £2,000 plus
Focus	Core control, stability, mobility, strength, resistance, precision, flexibility	Exactly the same as in mat Pilates. The Pilates principles always remain the same, whether on a mat or a piece of equipment.
Support	Relies on body control which can be harder	Springs can assist or challenge movements
Variety	Dozens of classic exercises but hundreds of variations	Hundreds of variations with resistance

Which One Should You Do?

Ask yourself these questions:

Do you want something flexible and low-cost? Mat Pilates is ideal. You can follow along at home, online, or in a group class without needing expensive gear.
Do you prefer variety and guidance? Both offer this! Any session with a qualified instructor should give structure, feedback, and progression.
Are you recovering from injury or want more support? The reformer can help by using springs to assist movements. Many physiotherapists integrate reformer Pilates into rehab programs.
Do you like to train at home?Mat is easier — unless you’re ready to invest in your own reformer machine, which can cost anywhere from £1,000–£4,000.

The Best of Both Worlds

You don’t have to choose one forever. Many people start with mat Pilates to learn control, then add reformer classes for variety and progression. Others flip between the two depending on their schedule.

For example:

At home during the week → mat workouts.
Once or twice a month → reformer studio sessions for a challenge.

Mixing both keeps your practice fresh and well-rounded.

FAQs

1. Can I lose weight with mat or reformer Pilates?

Both can support weight loss, but Pilates is more about building lean muscle, improving posture, and creating consistency. Pair it with walking, cardio, or strength training for best results.

2. Is one harder than the other?

Not exactly. Mat Pilates requires more body strength and awareness, while the reformer uses resistance to make some moves easier and others harder. Each has unique challenges.

3. Do I need experience before trying reformer?

No, beginners are welcome. In fact, some people find the reformer easier because of the support it gives. Just make sure you fully understand how to use a reformer in your first class. A good instructor will guide and help you!

4. Which is better for core strength?

Both are excellent. Mat often forces you to engage your core deeply without assistance, while reformer strengthens the core through resistance and stability work.

Final Thoughts!

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Mat Pilates is simple, flexible, and affordable. Reformer Pilates is structured, versatile, and motivating. Both can help you move better, feel stronger, and enjoy exercise. I love mat; it is easy to start, I can do it anywhere, anytime, and it is much cheaper!

The key is consistency. Start where you are, try both if you can, and see what keeps you coming back.

Try This Workout!

Want to try a core workout right now? Try this 25-minute Pilates online class – Reformer on the mat! I teach a short workout where I combine reformer exercises and teach them on the mat, give it a go! 😁

Next Step: Get your FREE Pilates ebook for beginners! 🤍

Start Today! Get your FREE eBook and Pilates class now; you won't regret it. https://www.nataliapilates.co.uk/free-pilates

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