Pilates 101: What is the difference between Mat and Reformer Pilates?
When you think of Pilates, you probably picture women in tights and leotards, gracefully stretching on mats with impressive flexibility. What might not come to mind is Joseph Pilates himself—sporting his signature speedo-style shorts—vigorously guiding clients through hands-on adjustments on various apparatuses. For better or for worse, both of these visualisations are accurate representations of Pilates throughout the decades. At Niche, we’re redefining what Pilates looks like by offering every style of Pilates movement, from Mat and Reformer to apparatus classes like: Tower, Cadillac, Chair, and Barrel. Not sure which method suits you best? Or maybe you’re devoted to your mat practice but curious about trying the Reformer? Keep reading as we explore the key differences between Mat and Reformer Pilates.
Mat Pilates, as the name suggests, requires one simple piece of equipment (the mat), therefore making it the most accessible option for Pilates movement. With less equipment comes greater focus on body awareness and control. Mat Pilates is a floor-based workout relying mostly on body weight for resistance. This often involves a series of controlled movements and poses, emphasizing core strength. Because of the minimal equipment required for mat Pilates, it is offered at a lower price point than our Reformer classes. Psst, what we hear from clients is that Mat is actually harder.
Our Mat class formats are designed to align with those of our Reformer classes. We offer two class types for Mat Pilates.
Move Mat combines the core principles of Pilates with contemporary sequences to create a fluid class that invigorates every muscle group. This is an excellent class for beginners and seasoned movers alike - as the instructor is focused on offering a range of modifications for each exercise.
Endurance Mat is a high-energy, full-body workout designed to go beyond traditional Pilates, focusing on cardiovascular and muscular endurance to leave you feeling strong and invigorated. Dumbbells are always used in a mat endurance class.
The Pilates Reformer combines the support of a padded carriage (like a comfier Pilates mat) that moves along on wheels with the ability to add tension and resistance using springs and pulleys (or straps). Sounds intimidating? It really isn’t! In fact, the reformer offers a lower impact workout and is a great tool for people that are recovering from injury, just getting back into movement, or trying to find the perfect workout as they age.
At Niche, we offer various styles of Reformer classes:
Reformer Flow is designed to focus on strength, flexibility, and balance. Clients should expect a balanced combination of effort and ease in this workout.
Power Flow offers a full-body workout with a focus on faster transitions, ensuring a continuous and challenging flow of movements. Expect to be engaged in creative Reformer exercises that elevate your heart rate.
Reformer Strength is perfect for anybody that is looking to marry their strength training routine with the support and flow of the Pilates Reformer. A dumbbell (or two!) is used in each Strength class, making this class the most challenging class on Niche’s schedule.
Beginner classes focus on the basics of the reformer, including nomenclature and moves that leave you feeling comfortable with the nature of the moving carriage and unstable service. We recommend that every first-timer take a beginner class or book a private session with one of our instructors.
Choosing between Mat and Reformer Pilates depends on personal preferences, fitness goals, and budget considerations. Mat Pilates is a cost-effective and accessible option, while Reformer Pilates, despite higher costs, offers more tailored workouts for individuals and versatility. Integrating both into your fitness routine can provide a balanced Pilates experience, catering to different aspects of strength, flexibility, and core stability.
Still feel like you can’t choose? Our 3-credit package allows you to use 2 credits to try a Reformer class and 1 credit for a Mat class! Our memberships are created so that you can take a combination of both Mat and Reformer classes. If you’re the type that needs to do some research before jumping in, check out our YouTube channel to get a sense of what our classes are like! Embrace your Pilates practice in a way that suits you best, whether it involves alternating between the two or dedicating yourself to the one you find most enjoyable!
