Deciding between Reformer Pilates or Mat Pilates is easy. Mat Pilates isn’t dependant on machinery, and you can take it everywhere you go!
Pilates is a popular form of exercise but in all seriousness, finding the right type of Pilates for you can greatly increase its benefits. Here, we take a closer look at reformer Pilates and mat Pilates to help you decide which one is best for you.
What Is Mat Pilates?
As the name suggests, mat Pilates is performed predominantly on a mat but it’s not quite as simple as that! Mat Pilates consists of small, controlled movements that are designed to strengthen your core. As you don’t require much space to carry out these small, controlled movements, they can be conveniently practised using just a mat…hence the name.
Traditional mat-based Pilates doesn’t use any form of equipment or apparatus and relies on you using your bodyweight as a form of resistance. In mat-based Pilates sessions, however, many practitioners will use smaller equipment or apparatus, such as straps or a Pilates ball, to modify the exercises and make them easier or harder.
What Is Reformer Pilates?
In contrast, Reformer Pilates incorporates equipment, namely ‘The Reformer’ (don’t worry – it’s not as scary as it sounds!). Despite the somewhat terrifying name, The Reformer is a piece of equipment that can be used to make Pilates easier or more challenging.
Instead of relying solely on your bodyweight as a form of resistance, for example, a Reformer machine can increase tension and, therefore, make the workout harder. Conversely, you can use a Reformer to provide support as you perform each movement, thus making the exercise a little easier while you build strength.
Choosing Mat Pilates or Reformer Pilates
Both these types of Pilates can offer a great workout but you need to look more closely at each to determine if Reformer Pilates or Mat Pilates can offer you the best results.
As you might expect, you need to have access to a Reformer machine to be able to practise Reformer Pilates, and this is the first drawback associated with it. These machines can be extremely expensive, which means only highly experienced and committed Pilates enthusiasts invest in them. However, this isn’t the only drawback. It can take time to learn how to use a Reformer machine safely and effectively and, without expert guidance, you run the risk of sustaining an injury.
In contrast, mat Pilates requires no equipment, apparatus or accessories (other than the mat!) and can be practised virtually anywhere. Not only does this make Pilates more convenient and more flexible, but it also means that you’re more likely to make it part of your regular routine and, therefore, reap the long-term benefits Pilates can offer.
Additionally, the accessibility of mat Pilates means it is easily available to everyone, regardless of experience, athleticism or skill level. No matter what your fitness levels are, you can take part in a mat-based Pilates class and enjoy both physical and emotional benefits from the practice. Still asking yourself Reformer Pilates or Mat Pilates? We didn’t think so.
Mat Pilates at Goji London
At Goji London, we’re big fans of mat-based Pilates. The Reformer Pilates or Mat Pilates question becomes a bit of no-brainer, really. Not only does it offer a fantastic core workout, but it also reflects our principles of accessibility and equality. To this end, we ensure that every class is open to every body and that every movement can be modified to suit your needs.
While you can fully participate in all of our Pilates classes with only a mat, additional equipment, such as straps, may be offered for use in some sessions. By integrating additional equipment in this way, we help to adjust the intensity of the exercise to suit all class members.
To find out if mat Pilates is right for you, why not join us at one of our classes? Explore our class schedule now and ‘Book Now’ to reserve your space.