Reformer Pilates vs Mat Pilates: What’s the Difference?
If you’re new to Pilates, you may have come across both mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates and wondered - what’s the difference, and which one is better?
If you’re searching for Reformer Pilates in Leicester, or simply exploring Pilates in Leicester, understanding how the two styles compare can help you decide what’s right for you.
The truth is, both have their place, and they actually work best when combined.
What Is Mat Pilates?
Mat Pilates is where it all began.
Developed by Joseph Pilates, mat-based exercises use your body weight to build strength, control, and stability. Classes are done on a mat, sometimes with small equipment like a Magic Circle or Pilates balls.
Mat Pilates focuses on:
Core strength
Body control
Flexibility
Mobility
Alignment
Breathing
Because there’s no machine to support you, mat Pilates requires you to fully engage your muscles, particularly your core, throughout each movement.
What Is Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates uses a specialised machine called the reformer, which includes:
A moving carriage
Springs for resistance
Straps and pulleys
This allows for a much wider range of exercises and levels of resistance.
One of the reasons Reformer Pilates in Leicester has become so popular is because the machine can both support and challenge your body at the same time.
Reformer Pilates helps with:
Building strength safely
Improving posture
Supporting joints
Increasing muscle tone
Enhancing mobility
The differing spring tensions mean exercises can be made easier or more challenging depending on your level.
Key Differences Between Mat and Reformer Pilates
1. Equipment
Mat Pilates: Just a mat (and sometimes small props)
Reformer Pilates: Uses a reformer machine with springs and resistance
2. Resistance & Support
Mat Pilates: Uses body weight only
Reformer Pilates: Uses varying spring resistance
The reformer can assist movements, making it ideal for beginners, but it can also increase resistance for more advanced clients.
3. Accessibility for Beginners
Mat Pilates can feel more challenging at first, as there’s no support
Reformer Pilates often feels more accessible because the machine guides your movement
This is why many people starting Reformer Pilates in Leicester find it easier to build confidence compared to jumping straight into mat classes.
4. Strength & Progression
Mat Pilates builds deep, foundational strength
Reformer Pilates allows for more progressive resistance and faster strength gains
Both are effective, they just challenge the body in different ways.
Which One Is Better?
This is the most common question, and the answer is: Neither is better. They are designed to work together.
Mat Pilates came first and forms the foundation of all Pilates movements. It teaches control, precision, and body awareness.
Reformer Pilates builds on that foundation by adding resistance, support, and variety.
The best results come from doing both as part of your weekly routine.
Mat Pilates helps you:
Improve body awareness
Strengthen stabilising muscles
Practise control without equipment
Reformer Pilates helps you:
Build strength with resistance
Improve posture
Progress exercises safely
Stay motivated with variety
Even adding one short mat session at home each week alongside your reformer classes can make a noticeable difference.
A Balanced Pilates Routine
A simple and effective routine could look like:
2 x Reformer Pilates classes
1 x Mat Pilates session (at home or in class)
This combination supports strength, flexibility, and long-term progress.
If you’re choosing between mat and reformer Pilates, you don’t have to pick just one.
Whether you’re new to Pilates in Leicester or already attending Reformer Pilates in Wigston, combining both styles will give you the best overall results.
Mat Pilates builds the foundation. Reformer Pilates builds on it.
Together, they create a strong, balanced, and sustainable approach to movement.