Mat vs. Reformer Pilates: Which One is Best for You?

Firstly, what are the main goals of Pilates? Do they vary between mat and reformer?

“The main goals of Pilates are to build deep core strength and address imbalances within the body,” Lauren tells Bed Threads Journal.

“The goals of mat and reformer Pilates don’t necessarily differ, as both are grounded in the six core principles developed by Pilates’ founder, Joseph Pilates, which are: centering, concentration, control, precision, breath, and flow. Mat Pilates is particularly effective for learning the more traditional, fundamental exercises, which can then be progressed and expanded upon using the reformer.”

Is reformer Pilates harder than mat Pilates?

Although reformer Pilates might have the rep of being the harder workout, don’t be deceived by the simplicity of mat Pilates’ set-up.

“Personally, I would say mat Pilates is actually harder due to the feedback loop – your connection to the surface that helps your brain understand what your body is doing and feeling – being less than it is in reformer. You are solely in charge of the mind-body connection and movement,” Simon tells Bed Threads Journal.

“I can understand where the perception comes from, as reformer Pilates can be more effective in feeding back the sensation and ‘burn’ to the individual, and the exercises also look visually big and dramatic.”

Moreover, while reformer Pilates can feel harder initially because of the machine – the springs, moving carriage and overall set-up making it seem more intense and technical – it actually makes certain exercises more accessible, Lauren adds.

“The springs can provide support, guide your movement, and give you feedback, which can help beginners feel more stable and in control,” she says.

“Mat Pilates, on the other hand, removes that external support. You’re relying entirely on your own strength, control, and body awareness. This often makes it more challenging to execute exercises correctly, especially without a strong foundation. Ultimately, neither is ‘harder’; it depends on the exercise, the level, and how the class is taught.”

Benefits of mat Pilates:

• Easily accessible
• At-home class videos available
• Low cost (generally cheaper than reformer studio classes)
• Low impact
• Builds deep core strength (no external support from the machine, so you gotta work!)
• Develops a strong foundation, control and fine motor skills

Drawbacks of mat Pilates:

• Less feedback to know if the movements are being done correctly
• Limited resistance (fewer options to progressively overload muscles compared to the reformer)
• Requires focus and control
• Can feel repetitive (if the programming isn’t varied or creative, or there is a lack of use of props)

Benefits of reformer Pilates:

• Adjustable resistance (the springs can support or challenge you)
• Low-impact
• Builds full-body strength while improving stability and control
• More variety of exercises or repertoire
• Guided experience (the machine provides feedback, helping you to understand the movement and build mind-body awareness)
• Increased mobility and flexibility (the machine allows the body to move through a greater range of motion in supported positions and patterns)
• Progressive (easy to increase the intensity as you get stronger)

Drawbacks of reformer Pilates:

• Less accessible than mat Pilates
• Higher cost (more expensive than mat classes)
• Can be equipment reliant (using momentum to perform the movement, rather than your own strength)
• Higher risk of injury due to spring and sliding carriage mechanism
• Different styles in the market (which can be confusing) and highly instructor-dependent
• Large, commercial class sizes are less beginner-friendly
• Can lean too heavily into the cardio or strength elements