Mat vs Reformer Pilates: Which is Right for You?

Understanding the differences to choose the best starting point for your practice.

If you're exploring Pilates, you've probably wondered about the difference between mat and reformer classes. Both are "real" Pilates, both are effective, and both can transform your body. But they offer different experiences.

Here's how to decide which is right for you.

What Is Mat Pilates?

Mat Pilates is performed on the floor using just your body weight (and sometimes small props like bands or balls). It's the original form of Pilates developed by Joseph Pilates and the foundation of all Pilates practice.

Mat Pilates Characteristics

• Uses body weight for resistance
• Performed on a mat (similar to yoga)
• Focuses heavily on core strength
• Can be done anywhere
• Lower cost to start
• Great for building foundational strength

What Is Reformer Pilates?

Reformer Pilates uses a specialised piece of equipment – the reformer. This sliding carriage with springs provides resistance that can make exercises easier OR harder, depending on the setup.

Reformer Pilates Characteristics

• Spring-based resistance (adjustable)
• Sliding carriage creates instability challenge
• More variety of exercises possible
• Feedback from the machine helps with form
• Can target specific muscle groups more precisely
• Higher cost (studio classes or home equipment)

Key Differences

Aspect	Mat Pilates	Reformer Pilates
Cost	Low (just a mat)	Higher (studio fees or equipment)
Location	Anywhere	Studio or home with reformer
Variety	Core-focused exercises	Wider range of movements
Difficulty	Can be very challenging	Springs can assist or challenge
Feedback	Less external feedback	Machine provides feedback on form
Travel-friendly	Yes	No (unless fold-up reformer)

Which Burns More Calories?

Both mat and reformer Pilates burn similar calories – approximately 200-400 per hour depending on intensity and your body weight. The reformer might edge slightly higher due to the added resistance work, but the difference is minimal.

Choose based on what you enjoy and will do consistently, not calorie burn.

Which Builds More Strength?

Both build strength, but differently:

• Mat Pilates – Excellent for core strength and body weight control. Can be surprisingly challenging because you're supporting your own weight.
• Reformer Pilates – Better for progressive overload (adding springs) and targeting specific muscle groups like glutes, inner thighs, and arms.

For overall strength, many people do both.

Which Is Better for Beginners?

Both are beginner-friendly, but they offer different advantages:

Start with Mat If:

• You want to learn the fundamentals first
• Budget is a concern
• You prefer working out at home
• You want something you can do anywhere

Start with Reformer If:

• You find mat work too challenging (springs can assist)
• You prefer having equipment feedback on form
• You're motivated by studio environments
• You have specific muscle goals

Our Recommendation

Start with mat Pilates to build your foundation. Once you understand the core principles – breath, alignment, control – you'll get more from reformer work. Many people then add reformer sessions for variety.

Eventually, doing both gives you the best of both worlds:

• Mat for consistency and fundamentals
• Reformer for variety and targeted work

Bringing the Reformer Home

Don't want to choose? Our Fold-Up Reformer brings studio-quality reformer Pilates to your living room. It folds away when you're done, so no dedicated studio space needed.

Pair it with the POLSE app for guided reformer classes with Gabz (@pilateswithgabz).

The best Pilates is the Pilates you'll actually do. Start where feels right for you.