Mat vs. Reformer Pilates: What’s the Difference—and Where Should You Start?
If you’ve ever wondered whether you should start with Mat Pilates or Reformer Pilates—or what the real difference is between the two—you’re not alone. I get this question all the time. So here’s my take, as someone who teaches both.
Mat Pilates: Simplicity Meets Strength
Mat Pilates is incredibly accessible. All you really need is a mat (or rug), and you can do it anywhere—living room, hotel room, backyard. The original mat work, designed by Joseph Pilates, used nothing but your own body weight. Today, many instructors (myself included) love to add small props like bands or balls to either level up the challenge or help deepen your connection to a specific movement.
It’s a lower-cost, no-equipment-needed way to build strength, coordination, and flexibility. And when taught well, it can be just as effective as a reformer session—promise.
Reformer Pilates: Supportive, Strengthening, and So Creative
The Reformer adds another layer to the practice. With its spring resistance, gliding platform, and adjustable straps, this machine allows you to experience movement in a whole new way. It offers support and challenge at the same time—great for building strength, increasing flexibility, and rehabbing joints or injuries.
Fun fact: Joseph Pilates created the first Pilates apparatus by modifying hospital beds, using the bed springs to help patients move and regain strength while lying down. To this day, much of Reformer Pilates can be done supine—making it incredibly therapeutic and approachable for many.
Personally, the Reformer is my favorite. I love the added resistance—it brings in an element of strength training that you just don’t get on the mat. Plus, the creative possibilities are endless. I get to build fresh, dynamic workouts that challenge the body in new ways, and that’s what keeps it exciting—for both me and my students.
So, Which One Should You Start With?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Both have incredible benefits.
If you’re new to Pilates and feel more comfortable learning without a machine, start with Mat. It allows you to tune in to how your body moves, without worrying about springs or straps. But if you have access to a reformer and feel curious, don’t let it intimidate you—my Beginner Reformer Program breaks everything down at a slower pace and is designed to help you build confidence quickly.
In fact, many of my students are surprised by how intuitive the Reformer becomes after just a few sessions—and how fast they start to feel stronger and more connected.
Why Not Both?
If you can do both Mat and Reformer, that’s the dream combo! But if budget or space means you’re rolling with just a mat for now, know this: you can absolutely transform your body with Mat Pilates alone. The method works.
For me, Pilates—on the mat or the Reformer—is about helping you feel amazing in your body now, and as you continue to age. It strengthens your core and back, improves posture and alignment, supports your joints, and sharpens your balance. It really is for everyone. Regardless of your age, it will make a difference.
Ready to Get Started?
You can try both Mat and Reformer workouts with a 7-day free trial on Saran Pilates. Classes are available for every level, and I guide you every step of the way.
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Here are a few links to Reformers and Mats I recommend:
The Allegro 2 Reformer is the one I use in my videos. It’s very user-friendly.
The Allegro Reformer is the original Allegro design, and is a slightly more economic option.
The Metro IQ Reformer is a great option if space is limited.
This Pilates Mat is the best! It’s more padded than a yoga mat, which feels better on the back!
