Reformer Pilates or mat Pilates: what’s the difference?

Pilates is practiced in two main ways: on the floor, on a mat, or on an apparatus such as the Reformer. Both share the same principles, but the experience is very different. Here is how to compare them and choose the practice that suits you.

Mat Pilates: your body weight as resistance

Mat Pilates mainly uses your body weight. Exercises are done lying down, seated or kneeling on a mat, sometimes with small props such as a ring, a ball or a band. It is an excellent foundation to learn the basics of Pilates: breathing, control and core work.

Its main challenge? Without support or assistance, some movements are demanding for beginners. It can be hard to feel whether you are working the right muscles, and the intensity is less easy to adjust.

Reformer Pilates: the resistance of springs

The Reformer adds a new dimension thanks to its springs. They can assist a movement to make it more accessible, or add resistance to intensify it. The sliding carriage, the footbar and the straps make it possible to vary angles and work the whole body. If the vocabulary feels new, check our short Reformer glossary.

The main differences

• Intensity: on the Reformer, it is adjusted by changing springs, which helps you progress faster in strength and tone.
• Support: the machine guides the movement and helps maintain good alignment, ideal for beginners or a return to training.
• Variety: the Reformer offers hundreds of exercises, standing, seated, kneeling or lying down.
• Coaching: Reformer Pilates classes are often taught in small groups, with more personalized corrections.
• Accessibility: mat Pilates can be done anywhere, while the Reformer requires an equipped studio.

Which one gives more results?

Both practices are beneficial. Mat Pilates develops strong body awareness. Reformer Pilates, thanks to adjustable resistance, often brings faster results in tone, strength and posture. Many women combine the two: a few mat exercises at home and Reformer classes at the studio.

Why we chose the Reformer

At BLVD Pilates in Laval, we chose Reformer Pilates to offer a high-end, precise experience adapted to each client. Our equipment lets us adjust every exercise, and our certified instructors guide every movement. Take a look at our space in the studio gallery to get a feel for it.

What about beginners?

Contrary to a common belief, the Reformer is not reserved for experienced practitioners. In fact, the assistance of the springs makes many exercises easier to perform correctly than on the mat. A beginner can therefore quickly feel the right muscles working, without compensating with the neck or lower back. That is also why the Reformer is often recommended for a return to physical activity, always with a healthcare professional’s approval in case of injury.

How to choose?

If you like practicing alone at home and want an accessible activity, mat Pilates is a good start. If you are looking for visible results, attentive coaching and a more complete experience, Reformer Pilates is for you. The simplest way is to try it: book a Reformer Pilates class at the studio and feel the difference from the very first session.