Reformer vs Mat Pilates: Which is Right for You?

If you’re not sure about the difference between Reformer Pilates and Mat Pilates, first know that experts say they both have health benefits.

In general, Pilates programs were associated with lower systolic, diastolic, and mean blood pressure in people with high blood pressure, according to a study published in February 2024. Journal of Human Hypertension.

According to the Cleveland Clinic, the benefits of Pilates also include pain relief, core strength, improved posture, flexibility, balance, breath control, and mental health.

Learn what you need to know about the difference between Reformer Pilates and Mat Pilates, and how to choose the option that’s best for you.

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What is Reformer Pilates?

When you imagine Pilates performed on machines in a studio, this is probably what comes to mind.

Reformer Pilates uses a Pilates Reformer machine. This machine has features such as a carriage that moves up and down a series of rails, hand and foot straps that function similarly to a lat pulldown machine, and a footbar and jumpboard to help vary the movement.

Reformer classes are typically held in a studio, but after the pandemic, there has been a significant increase in in-home usage. In the Pilates Anytime survey, nearly one in five respondents reported purchasing a home improvement contractor during the pandemic.

Small home remodelers can cost hundreds of dollars, while studio remodelers can cost thousands of dollars.

“I don’t recommend having Pilates in your home unless you have experience and are receiving professional instruction, either in person or online,” says Vanessa Johnson, NCPT, Director of Instructor Training at Club Pilates.

What is Mat Pilates?

Mat Pilates is typically performed at home or in a studio, on a thick mat, and sometimes with props such as a foam roller or hand weights.

This exercise focuses on working with your own body weight. Similar to Reformer Pilates, it is a low-impact exercise that is gentle on the joints.

“Mat Pilates is also very grounding because it’s just you and the mat,” says Bianca Wise, a certified Pilates instructor at Alo Move. She says, “You get a deeper sense of your body, the way you move, and your balance.”

This form of Pilates requires you to align yourself with your body, or what Joseph Pilates (the founder of Pilates) calls your “powerhouse” or core.

“Pilates is great for anyone looking to strengthen their body for longevity, align their spine for better posture, and strengthen their core for improved everyday movement.” —Bianca Wise, Pilates instructor

What are the benefits of Reformer Pilates?

There are two schools of thought regarding the benefits of Reformer Pilates. For one, it provides a more dynamic workout than mat Pilates. You can adjust the tension of the carriage’s springs to enhance movement or add support to ease movement.

“The Reformer is adjustable so all body types can experience movement in the way that works best for them,” says Johnson. “The Reformer has the ability to significantly increase the volume on some of the original matte movements.”

However, another argument is that Reformer Pilates may serve as a stepping stone to taking Pilates to the mat.

“Joseph Pilates created the Reformer as a body conditioning device,” says Wise. “Ideally, you will become strong enough on the reformer that you will be able to do all of the same exercises without the ‘help’ of equipment.”

Regardless of which school of thought you follow, Reform Pilates has the advantage of offering a wide range of movements that are low-impact and easy on your joints. If you tend to get bored easily, this can add variety to your workouts.

What are the benefits of mat Pilates?

Mat Pilates is more accessible than Reformer Pilates in terms of location and budget.

“It can be done anywhere and everywhere, with or without equipment,” Wise says. “It’s also incredibly safe for all levels, all bodies, and all ages.”

If you have a particularly busy schedule and don’t have time to spend in a studio, or if you don’t want to purchase equipment for your home, mat Pilates may be a better option than reformer Pilates.

Both types of Pilates promote increased stability and balance, improved posture, core strength, mind-body connection, breath connection, stabilizing muscle development, and joint and injury prevention, Wise added. Masu.

How to choose Reformer Pilates or Mat Pilates

When choosing what type of Pilates to do, consider your fitness level and what you feel most comfortable starting with.

“People new to Pilates may have experience with other fitness methods and may feel most comfortable starting on a mat,” says Wise.

That being said, certain groups may benefit from the resistance training associated with Reformer Pilates.

“Working with springs means you’re working against or against resistance, which puts stress on your bones,” Wise says. “This is very important for improving and maintaining bone density, especially for women as they age.”

If you can’t go to a studio, also consider whether you have the space (and budget) for Reformer Pilates.

“Some reformers are able to fold up and crawl under a bed, but the average space needed is at least 8 feet long and 4 feet wide,” Johnson says. “It’s a good idea to have a mirror on at least one end of the reformer so you can check your form.”

Also, consider any injuries that may make some types of Pilates difficult. For example, if you find it painful to stay on your knees or have difficulty getting on and off the ground, a reformer machine may be a better option than mat Pilates. In any case, it is best to consult a professional.

“People with injuries, safety issues, or health conditions should start with a private session with a comprehensively trained Pilates instructor,” says Johnson. “Based on your symptoms, your instructor will help you determine what is best for your body.”

At the end of the day, choosing between Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates is a personal choice. Whichever you choose, you’ll enjoy the benefits associated with Pilates.

“Pilates is perfect for people who want to strengthen their bodies for longevity, align their spines for better posture, and strengthen their core to improve daily movements,” says Wise. says.