Mat vs. Reformer Pilates: Which Is Better?

Reformer Pilates is generally more effective for targeted toning and building strength due to its spring resistance, making it ideal for those seeking faster aesthetic changes. Mat Pilates excels at developing deep core strength and body control using only bodyweight. The best choice depends on your budget, goals, and fitness level.

Use this guide to match your primary goal to the best Pilates method. For fast toning, lean towards the reformer. For foundational core strength and flexibility on a budget, start with the mat.

If you’d like a detailed look at Reformer Pilates, check out our article on What is Reformer Pilates?

Reformer Pilates is superior for toning because the adjustable spring resistance creates muscular tension more effectively than bodyweight alone. This targeted load is key for developing lean muscle definition, particularly in the legs, arms, and glutes.

• Lie on your back, lift legs to tabletop position
• Lift head and shoulders, extend arms alongside body
• Pump arms up and down whilst breathing (5 counts in, 5 counts out)
• Self-Check: Your lower back should stay firmly pressed into the mat
• Duration: 100 pumps (hence the name!)

• Start lying flat, arms overhead
• Slowly roll up vertebra by vertebra, reaching towards toes
• Roll back down with control
• Common Mistake: Avoid using momentum; control the movement entirely from your abs
• Reps: 6-8 slow, controlled repetitions

• Lie on back, one leg extended to ceiling
• Draw controlled circles with the raised leg
• Keep the circling motion small and precise
• Self-Check: Keep your pelvis perfectly still throughout
• Reps: 5 circles each direction, then switch legs

• Position yourself on the carriage, feet on the footbar
• Press out and in with various foot positions
• Why it works: Builds baseline leg strength whilst maintaining core connection
• Sets: 10 reps in each position (parallel, V-position, wide)

• Stand on carriage in downward dog position
• Push carriage back using hamstrings and core
• Why it works: Deeply stretches hamstrings whilst challenging core stability
• Reps: 10-15 controlled movements

• Sit sideways on carriage, one hand on footbar
• Arc body into lateral stretch whilst pushing bar away
• Why it works: Lengthens the entire side body and improves spinal mobility
• Hold: 30 seconds each side

No, it’s often more accessible than mat Pilates. The reformer’s springs can actually support your body weight, making challenging moves easier to learn than on the mat alone. The resistance is completely adjustable, meaning you can start with lighter springs and progress gradually.

Whilst reformer Pilates delivers exceptional results, there are a couple of considerations for newcomers. The reformer machine, with its system of springs, straps, and moving carriage, can initially feel complex compared to the simplicity of mat work. This learning curve is completely normal and easily overcome – simply arrive 10 minutes early to your first class to request a quick equipment tour from your instructor. They’ll happily explain the spring settings and basic adjustments, transforming what seems complicated into something wonderfully intuitive. Most people find that after just two or three sessions, operating the reformer becomes second nature.

The other consideration is ensuring proper form, as the reformer’s moving parts and resistance systems require precise technique to maximise benefits and prevent strain. Unlike mat Pilates where you’re working against gravity alone, the reformer adds variable resistance that needs careful control. The solution is beautifully simple: choose smaller classes with fewer than eight participants, where instructors can provide personalised attention throughout your session. This focused guidance ensures you’re moving safely and effectively, helping you master each exercise with confidence. Many students actually find this individual attention accelerates their progress, turning a potential challenge into an advantage. With the right instruction, the reformer becomes an incredibly safe and supportive way to transform your body.

fter just five classes, you’ll experience a newfound awareness of your core engagement and notice yourself standing taller throughout the day. This improved mind-muscle connection is the foundation for everything that follows – suddenly, you’re conscious of your posture whilst sitting at your desk or walking to the shops.

By the time you reach ten classes, typically around the one-month mark, the movements that once felt awkward begin flowing more naturally. You’ll notice a significant increase in muscle endurance, making everyday activities noticeably easier. Carrying groceries, playing with kids, or sitting through long meetings becomes less taxing as your core strength develops. Your body starts to feel more connected and coordinated, with movements becoming more fluid and controlled.

The magic really becomes visible after twenty classes, usually within two to three months of consistent practice. This is when you’ll see genuine changes in muscle tone and definition, particularly through your core, arms, and legs. Your clothes will fit differently, especially around the waist, and friends might start asking what you’ve been doing differently. Beyond the aesthetic changes, you’ll experience significant improvements in balance and coordination that enhance every aspect of your daily life. These results aren’t just about looking better – they’re about moving through life with greater ease, confidence, and strength.