Mat Or Reformer Pilates – What’s The Difference & Which Is Best?
As you may well know, Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on strengthening the core, improving posture, and enhancing mobility & flexibility, amongst things. It was developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s and has since become a popular choice for fitness enthusiasts and those looking for help with various issues.
But did you know that there are two main types of Pilates: mat and reformer? Read on to find out more about both, and perhaps establish which is best!
What is mat Pilates?
Mat Pilates is the original form of Pilates that uses only your body weight and a mat as resistance. It consists of a series of exercises that target the core muscles, as well as the arms, legs, and back. Mat Pilates is accessible, adaptable, and affordable. You can do it anywhere, anytime, with no equipment. It is also suitable for all fitness levels and life stages.
However, mat Pilates is challenging, especially for beginners. Without any external feedback or assistance, you have to rely on your own body awareness and control to perform the exercises correctly. One of my 121 clients who also does a lot of reformer says “there’s no hiding on the mat” – In the long run, I see this as a benefit and will give you a solid foundation.
What is reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates is a form of Pilates that uses a machine called a reformer. A reformer is a bed-like frame with a sliding carriage, springs, straps, and a footbar. It allows you to add or remove resistance to the exercises, making them easier or harder. Reformer Pilates works more areas than mat Pilates, as it involves more movements of the arms and legs. It also provides feedback and support to help you align your body and improve your form. However, reformer Pilates can also be expensive, inconvenient, and intimidating. You need access to a studio or a machine at home, which can cost a lot of money and space. You also need proper guidance from an instructor to use the machine safely and effectively.
Which one is better for you?
The answer depends on your goals, preferences, and budget. Both mat and reformer Pilates have their pros and cons, and they complement each other well.
If you want to build more strength beyond that which mat Pilates with some small equipment such as bands, is able to provide, reformer Pilates might be a better option for you. It can also provide more support and assistance for those with very limiting conditions (really bordering disability).
If you want to improve general strength, mobility, flexibility, and have the convenience of regular and consistent practice, mat Pilates might be more suitable for you. If you’re trying to get a solid result from Pilates, such as back pain relief or other problem, you really do need to aim for 2-4 sessions per week. Unless you have a reformer at home, a lot of time and money, you’re more likely to be consistent and regular with mat and therefore get faster, more tangible results.
The simplicity of Mat is my preference for 2 main reasons:
It changed my life, resolved and keeps at bay my back pain, and enabled me to get on with the things I love while maintaining regular practice whenever and wherever I like.
Most people are able to commit to enough regular practice to actually get a result.
However, the best way to enjoy the benefits of both methods is to combine them in your routine. For example, you can do mat Pilates at home or on the go, and reformer Pilates at a studio or with a machine once or twice a week. This way, you can challenge yourself with different levels of resistance, work different muscle groups, and keep your workouts fun and varied.
If you’d like to try Reformer then please let me know and I can link you up with some of the best instructors.
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If you need more help and don’t know where to start, I’ve been there, please get in touch and we can chat.