Mat Pilates vs Reformer Pilates: Which Should You Choose?

If you’ve been looking into Pilates, you’ve probably come across two options: Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates.

Both focus on controlled movement, but the experience can feel quite different. Choosing between them starts with understanding how each works—and what you enjoy.

What is Mat Pilates?

Mat Pilates uses your body weight and gravity to create challenge. Depending on the class, you might also use small equipment such as a ball, resistance band or light weights.

Without a moving carriage or springs, you work to control your position and movement on the mat.

That doesn’t make it the easy option. A small, carefully controlled movement can take plenty of effort.

What is Reformer Pilates?

Reformer Pilates uses a machine with a moving carriage, springs and straps.

The springs can provide resistance or assistance, depending on the exercise. Your instructor selects combinations and movement options to suit the session.

More springs don’t always mean a harder exercise. In some movements, reducing support creates a greater challenge for control and stability.

Is Reformer better than Mat Pilates?

Neither format is automatically better.

Both can challenge strength, coordination and body awareness. What you get from a class also depends on its programming, the instruction and how you perform the movements.

The reformer offers adjustable spring settings and different exercise possibilities. Mat Pilates gives you another way to explore control using your own body weight.

They’re different experiences within the same broader movement method.

Which is better for beginners?

You can begin with either, provided the class and instruction suit your needs.

You don’t have to “graduate” from Mat Pilates before trying the reformer. Equally, you don’t need a machine to have a worthwhile Pilates session.

Tell the studio you’re new before booking. If you have an injury or health condition, ask about suitability rather than assuming either format will be the right fit.

Can you do both?

Absolutely. Combining the two can add variety and help you discover which classes you look forward to attending.

You might enjoy the spring resistance of a Reformer class one day and the focused challenge of Mat Pilates another.

At Awaken, our instructors offer movement options so you can choose an appropriate challenge as you learn.

Curious about both? Explore our class descriptions, then ask your local Awaken team to help you choose your first session.