If you’re new to Pilates, the first question is almost always the same: should you start on the reformer or on the mat? The short answer both build the same core strength, control, and posture, but the reformer adds spring resistance and support, while mat Pilates uses your own bodyweight. Neither is “better.” The right one depends on your goals, and most women end up loving a mix of the two.
Here’s how to choose.
What is mat Pilates?
Mat Pilates is Pilates in its purest form: a sequence of controlled movements performed on a mat using your own bodyweight, sometimes with small props like a ring, band, or light weights. It looks simple and feels anything but — every movement asks your deep core to stabilize and control.
Mat is fantastic for building body awareness, and because it needs almost no equipment, it translates easily to a practice you can carry anywhere.
What is reformer Pilates?
The reformer is the sleek, spring-loaded machine you’ve probably seen on Instagram. A sliding carriage, adjustable springs, straps, and a footbar let you add resistance and support to every move. Those springs make the reformer wonderfully adaptable: they can make an exercise more challenging or gently assist you into proper form.
That’s why so many beginners actually find the reformer easier to learn on — it guides your body through the movement.
The key differences at a glance
| Mat Pilates | Reformer Pilates | |
|---|---|---|
| Equipment | Mat + small props | Spring reformer machine |
| Resistance | Your bodyweight | Adjustable springs |
| Support for beginners | You self-correct | Machine guides your form |
| Variety | Focused, foundational | Very wide range of exercises |
| Best for | Core control, portability | Guided strength, full-body variety |
Which should a beginner start with?
If you want the most guidance and immediate feedback, start on the reformer — the springs help you find the right muscles and protect your form. If you love the idea of mastering the fundamentals with nothing but a mat, mat Pilates is a beautiful place to begin.
Honestly? At RÓS, we encourage new members to try both in their first couple of weeks. You’ll quickly feel which one your body responds to.
Can you do both? (Yes and you should)
Reformer and mat aren’t rivals; they’re partners. The mat builds the deep core awareness that makes your reformer work stronger, and the reformer builds the strength that makes your mat practice cleaner. Alternating between them keeps your body challenged and your routine fresh.
An unlimited membership makes that easy — you can flow between reformer and mat classes all week without thinking about per-class costs.
A healthy diet can help mitigate or buffer one from these types of effects as it sets the stage for a beneficial gut microbiome and less inflammation, both of which are tied to mood, anxiety, depression and even sleep.
Moreover, you also have the option of purchasing both the Ultimate Pull-Up Program & the Ultimate Push-Up Program at a heavily discounted price. I think one of the biggest mistakes I see most people make with their pull-up/chin-up programming is that they simply don’t train the pattern enough. However, this approach only works well for those who can already perform 3-5 pull-ups and are looking to level up that number.
If you can’t even perform one this would be a daunting prospect to say the least. That said, I think staying cognizant of total VOLUME is an often overlooked component of pull-up progress.
Moreover, you also have the option of purchasing both the Ultimate Pull-Up Program & the Ultimate Push-Up Program at a heavily discounted price.
Frequently asked questions
Is reformer or mat Pilates better for beginners?
Both are beginner-friendly. Many beginners prefer the reformer because the springs guide proper form, but mat Pilates is equally welcoming and endlessly modifiable.
Is mat Pilates as effective as reformer Pilates?
Yes, but in different ways. Mat Pilates builds exceptional deep-core control using bodyweight, while the reformer adds resistance and exercise variety. The best results can come from combining both.
Ready to feel the difference?
Try a reformer and a mat class this week at RÓS Pilates in Henderson, NV. Our instructors will help you find the right fit.
Book your first class →
