Mat Pilates vs. Reformer Pilates: Where do I begin?
Mat Pilates vs Reformer Pilates
People often find themselves asking which form of Pilates is better, or which is easier? The truth is both forms are amazing and benefit you in so many ways.
Pilates is a form of exercise that focuses on strength, flexibility, and body awareness. It can be performed in two primary ways: mat Pilates and reformer Pilates. Each method has its unique characteristics and benefits.
Why Mat Pilates?
Mat Pilates
Mat Pilates is performed on the floor using a Pilates mat. Check out our on demand library. Our on demand library is full of mat classes you can take at home with our amazing instructors. It involves bodyweight exercises and sometimes small props like resistance bands, magic circles, and small weights. The exercises focus on core strength, flexibility, balance, and overall body awareness.
Benefits:
Accessibility: Can be done anywhere with minimal equipment, even at home or while traveling using Fuse Livestream classes!
Core Strength: Emphasizes core stabilization and strength.
Flexibility and Balance: Improves flexibility and balance through controlled movements.
Why Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates
Reformer Pilates uses a specialized piece of equipment called a reformer or what we call an apparatus. The reformer consists of a sliding carriage, springs, and pulleys, providing resistance and support. Exercises can be performed lying down, sitting, standing, or kneeling, and involve pushing, pulling, and holding positions against the resistance of the springs.
Reformer Pilates was created by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s to aid in rehabilitation, using a specialized machine with a sliding carriage and springs. After Pilates' died in 1967, the method gained popularity and is now known for enhancing core strength, flexibility, and overall fitness!
Benefits
Versatility: Offers a wider range of exercises and modifications due to the equipment.
Resistance Training: Provides adjustable resistance, enhancing muscle strength and endurance.
Support and Alignment: The reformer supports the body, helping with alignment and reducing the risk of injury.
Rehabilitation: Often used in physical therapy due to its low-impact nature and ability to isolate specific muscle groups.
Variety: Keeps workouts interesting with different exercise options.
How to Choose Between Mat and Reformer Pilates?
If you are new to Pilates, Mat is your best choice to get started and learn all the different kinds of movements, unless you are going through rehabilitation, contact us! If your primary goal is to build core strength, improve flexibility, and enjoy a workout that can be done anywhere, mat Pilates might be the best choice. If you are looking for a more comprehensive, resistance-based workout that can target specific muscle groups and provide support for rehabilitation, reformer Pilates might be better suited for you!
I am new to Fuse Pilates, but I have done Pilates elsewhere, where do I start?
Beginners might find mat Pilates more approachable and easier to start with, especially if they are not familiar with the apparatus.
If you are more familiar with your body balance and movements, or looking for a challenge and variety, you may prefer reformer Pilates.
Some people enjoy the simplicity and minimalism of mat Pilates, while others prefer the variety and challenge that the reformer provides.
Overall…
Mat Pilates and reformer Pilates offer unique benefits and can complement each other well. Many practitioners incorporate both into their fitness routines to enjoy the advantages of each method. At Fuse Pilates all of our classes are taught to body part requests, which means no two classes are ever the same.
Consider your goals, experience level, budget, physical condition, and personal preference when deciding which type of Pilates is right for you! We can’t wait to see you in the studio!