Reformer Pilates vs Mat Pilates: What’s the Difference (and Which One Is Right for You)?

If you’ve been searching “Reformer Pilates vs Mat Pilates,” you’re probably trying to figure out which one makes sense for your body, your schedule, and your goals. Good news: both are great. The best choice is the one you’ll actually stick with.

This guide breaks down the real differences (without the fitness industry hype) so you can decide what fits you best.

Quick answer: what’s the difference?

• Mat Pilates is Pilates done on the floor using your body weight (and sometimes small props like bands or balls).

• Reformer Pilates is Pilates done on a machine (the reformer) that uses springs and a moving carriage for resistance.

Both focus on core strength, posture, control, and breathing. The main difference is the equipment and how resistance is created.

What is Mat Pilates?

Mat Pilates is typically done on a mat and uses:

• Bodyweight resistance

• Controlled, precise movement

• Core engagement and breathwork

• Modifications to make moves easier or more challenging

Why people love it: It’s accessible, low-impact, and you can get strong without feeling beat up.

What is Reformer Pilates?

Reformer Pilates uses a reformer machine with:

• Springs for adjustable resistance

• Straps and a footbar for different movement patterns

• A sliding carriage that challenges stability

Why people love it: The machine can add variety, support, and intensity depending on how it’s set up.

Reformer Pilates vs Mat Pilates: side-by-side comparison

Feature	Mat Pilates	Reformer Pilates
Equipment	Mat (optional small props)	Reformer machine
Resistance	Bodyweight + gravity	Springs + moving carriage
Cost	Usually more affordable	Usually higher-priced
Accessibility	Easy to start anywhere	Requires studio/machine
Intensity options	Scales with tempo, range, leverage	Scales quickly with springs/settings
Best for	Fundamentals, consistency, mobility	Variety, targeted resistance, progression

Which one is better for beginners?

Most beginners do great with Mat Pilates because it teaches the foundations: breathing, alignment, and core control.

That said, Reformer can also be beginner-friendly because the machine can assist certain movements (especially if you have tight hips, limited mobility, or you’re rebuilding strength).

The best beginner option is the one with:

• A coach who cues form clearly

• Modifications offered without judgment

• A pace that lets you learn (not rush)

Which one is better for core strength?

Honestly? Both.

Mat Pilates is amazing for learning how to engage your deep core without relying on equipment. Reformer Pilates adds resistance and instability that can challenge your core in a different way.

If your goal is a stronger core for real life (back support, posture, balance), either one can work.

Which one is better for toning and weight loss?

Pilates can support weight loss and body composition, but it’s not a “quick fix.”

• Mat Pilates can help you build lean muscle, improve movement, and stay consistent (which matters most).

• Reformer Pilates can add resistance that may feel more “strength training-like.”

For weight loss, the best results usually come from:

• Consistency (2–4x/week)

• Nutrition habits you can maintain

• A mix of strength + cardio + recovery

Which one is easier on joints?

Both are generally low-impact.

• Mat Pilates can be joint-friendly, but some moves put pressure on wrists, knees, or neck if not modified.

• Reformer Pilates can be very joint-friendly because the machine can support your body and reduce load.

If you have joint pain, the key is coaching and modifications—not just the format.

What should you choose?

Here’s a simple way to decide:

Choose Mat Pilates if you want:

• A low-impact workout you can do consistently

• Better posture, core strength, and mobility

• A class that feels challenging but not punishing

• A more affordable option

Choose Reformer Pilates if you want:

• More equipment-based variety

• Adjustable resistance and progression

• Extra support for certain movements

• A machine-based experience

Can you do both?

Absolutely — and it’s a great combo.

A lot of people love:

• Mat Pilates for consistency and fundamentals

• Reformer Pilates for variety and progression

If you’re already doing Mat Pilates, adding reformer later can feel like leveling up.

Mat Pilates in Canton, MS (Madison County + nearby)

If you’re looking for Mat Pilates in Canton, MS in a welcoming, come-as-you-are environment, The Well would love to have you.

Mat Pilates class times at The Well

We offer Mat Pilates Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5:30pm.

Check our schedule and grab an intro offer at https://www.meetatthewell.com.

Quick FAQ

How soon will I feel results? Many people feel a difference in posture and core engagement within 2–4 weeks of consistent classes.

Is Pilates only for flexible people? Nope. Pilates helps you build mobility and control over time.