Most people these days have at least heard of Pilates but most are still unsure as to what it is, it’s just another type of Yoga right? Not quite but you could call it Yoga’s more strength focused cousin. For fitness enthusiasts it has become a firm favourite due to its low-impact yet highly effective approach to strengthening the whole body. While both Traditional (Mat) Pilates and Reformer Pilates build core strength, flexibility, and improve posture, they differ in how they achieve these results. In this blog, we’ll compare Reformer Pilates vs. Mat Pilates to help you decide which one is right for you.
Where did Pilates come from?
Pilates was originally named ‘Contrology’ by a man called Joseph Pilates. Pilates was a German man who was sickly as a child and this encouraged him to experiment with various exercises to combat his ongoing conditions. He was perhaps one of the first influential figures to research and practice every type of exercise he could to create a method that would combine eastern and western ideas. His creation is what we know today as the Pilates method which not only targets physical fitness but mental health and overall wellbeing.
What is Traditional (Mat) Pilates?
When you look at the original Traditional Mat Pilates exercises in their full form they are challenging and difficult for most people to achieve, you need to have optimum core strength and great flexibility to start with. Because of this, modern day Pilates classes now include a number of modifications of the original exercises so classes vary, and in some cases to quite a large degree from one studio or instructor to the next. Mat Pilates exercises are bodyweight exercises that can be broken down into layers of small, controlled movements to make them still challenging but more achievable, with added ongoing progressions into the full original exercises and repertoire. Pilates has also become a popular choice for Physiotherapists to use as a form of exercise rehabilitation as it can be a great beginner pilates workout.
What is Reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates is the use of a piece of equipment called a Reformer which includes a sliding carriage, springs, straps and pulleys. All of which can be used to increase or decrease the resistance of an exercise, it also targets a wider range of muscle groups working together. It is a very adaptable piece of equipment and can be used either as a Beginners Reformer Pilates workout or for those seeking a more Dynamic Reformer Pilates intense workout, at Sano Studio we offer both.
Due to the number of benefits of Reformer Pilates it is becoming a staple regime for a lot of people, including professional athletes. The many benefits include improved core strength, greater flexibility and strength through range of movement giving you more explosive physical power and quick cognitive decision making in quick dynamic movements, plus better balance and control. A lot of these benefits give that extra edge in a competitive environment. The mindful aspect of Pilates also can’t be ignored either, when the pressure is on to perform at a high level physically or mentally, or both it can take its toll on the mind and body. Not only does Pilates help improve flexibility, strength and control it also provides cognitive benefits of being more in touch with your body and the way it moves, therefore improving the control and connection of your mind to your body. What a lot of people don’t know is that traditional Pilates or more commonly known as Mat Pilates was technically introduced after Reformer Pilates. Joseph Pilates first design of the Reformer that we know today was from a hospital bed when he was interned by the British authorities in WW1 when he tasked himself to rehabilitate prisoners of war who had been bed bound by injuries.
Mat Pilates vs. Reformer Pilates: Key Differences
Who Should Choose Mat Pilates?
Mat Pilates is the ideal choice for those looking for a simple equipment free low cost workout or for those who wish to focus on core strength and flexibility but without the need for additional support. It can be a wonderful Beginners Pilates workout that is easily accessible and can be done anywhere, it’s a great introduction to the Pilates principles and exercises.
Who Should Choose Reformer Pilates?
The Reformer Pilates benefits make it the best choice for those looking for a workout that not only targets core strength but it’s a full body workout giving you the ability to adjust the resistance as you go. It can be perfect for beginners or for those recovering or rehabilitating from injuries who may benefit from the supportive nature of the machine. Due to the adjustable nature of the equipment it allows for a more challenging workout making it ideal to those seeking a more intense Dynamic Reformer Pilates experience. With every Reformer Pilates class you will find a focus on muscle tone, flexibility and coordination.
Benefits of Mat Pilates
The main benefit of Mat Pilates is that the bodyweight movements can be done anywhere with minimal equipment. It will help to build core strength, improve flexibility, and improve posture. You will also benefit from the positive impact on your mental health, with the small controlled movements forcing you to focus on the present moment. With the focus on breath it can be an excellent mindful stress reducing activity for those who suffer from stress, anxiety or depression.
Benefits of Reformer Pilates
Reformer Pilates has a number of unique benefits as you are taken through a full body workout with adjustable resistance. You will strengthen and lengthen your muscles through tension from the spring's resistance and you will perform exercises that will improve your balance and coordination. With a wider range of exercises than in Mat Pilates, Reformer Pilates adds variety to your Pilates routine with more dynamic movement patterns also helping to prevent injuries by strengthening underused muscles.
Which Pilates is Right for You?
If you are a beginner or on a budget you may find that Mat Pilates is the right choice for you or if core strength is your only focus then this may be the best option.
If you are seeking to build whole body strength and conditioning with a focus on your core and increasing your range of movements, using resistance then the Reformer will help to target specific areas of concern and provide a more varied workout. It's also the best choice to support injury recovery.
Conclusion
We at Sano Studio love teaching Reformer Pilates in Edinburgh’s South Side of the city. You’ll find an array of Pilates classes at our studio in Edinburgh’s Morningside with Reformer Pilates being the main classes that we teach. So whether you’re looking to improve your core strength, increase flexibility, or get a full-body workout, both Mat and Reformer Pilates offer incredible benefits. If you're unsure which is right for you, why not try both? Visit our Pilates studio in Edinburgh, Morningside, and discover how Pilates can transform your fitness journey.
FAQ Section on Reformer Pilates
What is the difference between Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates?
Mat Pilates is bodyweight exercises performed on a mat, it may incorporate resistance bands, circles, balls and weights to increase or decrease the intensity of the exercises, Mat Pilates is predominantly focused on core exercises. Reformer Pilates is performed on a piece of equipment called a Reformer, the intensity of the exercises can be varied using spring resistance and pulley straps along with other pieces of equipment. Reformer Pilates is a full body workout which lengthens and strengthens every major muscle group to increase strength and flexibility with dynamic exercises that target strength through a full range of movement.
Which is better for beginners: Mat or Reformer Pilates?
Is Reformer Pilates harder than Mat Pilates?
Can I do both Mat and Reformer Pilates?
How often should I do Pilates to see results?
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