Reformer Pilates vs Mat Pilates: Which One Is Right for You?

If you've been Googling Pilates classes near you and found yourself down a rabbit hole of reformers, springs, and ‘Pilates cores’ - you're not alone. One of the most common questions we hear at Rise Pilates Studio in Keyworth is: “What's the actual difference between reformer and mat Pilates, and which one should I try first?”

Great question. Let's break it down.

First: What They Have in Common

Both reformer and mat Pilates are rooted in the same method - developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century - and both focus on:

• Core strength and stability

• Posture and alignment

• Controlled, mindful movement

• Breathing and body awareness

• Building functional strength (the kind that actually helps you in daily life)

They’re both low-impact, suitable for most bodies, and genuinely transformative when practised consistently. The difference is in how you get there.

Mat Pilates: Back to Basics

What it is

Mat Pilates is practised on the floor - exactly as it sounds. You use your own bodyweight as resistance, working through a series of exercises that challenge your core, flexibility, and control. No equipment needed beyond a mat (and occasionally a half barrel or small props like a ring or ball).

What it feels like

Mat Pilates can feel deceptively simple at first - and then suddenly you're shaking. Because there’s no machine taking any load, every movement relies entirely on you. It demands a strong mind-body connection and real awareness of your form.

Who it’s great for

• People who want to explore Pilates principles before committing to equipment

• Those who travel and want a practice they can take anywhere

• Anyone building body awareness from scratch

• Clients who enjoy a more meditative, slower pace

At Rise, our mat classes include Wunda Chair and Half Barrel sessions in our second studio room - a beautifully calm space that’s a little different from your usual gym class.

Reformer Pilates: The One Everyone’s Talking About

What it is

The reformer is a sliding carriage machine with a spring-based resistance system, straps, and a footbar. It looks a bit intimidating at first. We promise it’s not.

The springs can be used to both assist and resist your movement, which means the reformer is uniquely versatile. Clients recovering from injury can use lighter spring resistance to rebuild safely. More advanced clients can increase the challenge significantly - all on the same machine.

What it feels like

Honestly? Like your body just discovered muscles it didn’t know it had. The reformer works through a much greater range of motion than mat work, targeting the deep stabilising muscles that are almost impossible to isolate otherwise. You’ll leave feeling worked but not wrecked.

Who it’s great for

• Complete beginners - the spring assistance actually makes some movements easier to learn

• Anyone recovering from injury or managing back pain (always check with your physio first)

• People who want measurable progression - you can genuinely see yourself getting stronger

• Those who’ve plateaued on mat or gym-based exercise

• Postnatal women rebuilding core strength and connection

• Busy professionals who want maximum results in minimum time

The Honest Answer: Which Is Better?

Neither is better - they’re different tools, and the best Pilates studio will offer both.

If you’re completely new to Pilates, the reformer is often the easier place to start. The machine gives you feedback on your alignment, the springs provide support, and your instructor can adjust the resistance to meet you exactly where you are. You don’t need to be fit, flexible, or strong to begin.

If you’re already practising mat Pilates and want to take your training further, adding reformer sessions will genuinely change your practice. Many of our members do both.

Reformer Pilates Near Keyworth - What to Expect at Rise

Rise Pilates Studio is based in the heart of Keyworth, Nottinghamshire, with free parking on Bunny Lane. We’re small by design - our reformer classes are kept intentionally intimate so that every client gets proper attention, proper corrections, and a class that actually works for their body.

Our instructors: Every member of the Rise team has trained to a high standard and brings their own personality to the studio floor. You’ll never feel like a number here.

Our approach: Grounded, inclusive, and practical. No lycra-clad perfection required. Just show up, grip socks on, and we’ll handle the rest.

New to us? We’d love to welcome you. Our booking platform makes it easy to find a class that fits your schedule, and our team is always happy to answer any questions before you come in.

Ready to Try It for Yourself?

Whether you’re a complete beginner or a mat Pilates regular, curious about the reformer, there’s a class at Rise for you. We’re based in Keyworth, just a short drive from West Bridgford, Ruddington, and the wider Rushcliffe area.

Browse our timetable and book your first class here. We can’t wait to meet you.

FAQs

Is reformer Pilates harder than mat Pilates?

Not necessarily - it’s different. The reformer can be made easier or harder depending on the spring settings and exercises chosen. Many people actually find it easier to start on the reformer because the machine supports correct movement patterns.

Do I need experience to try reformer Pilates?

No. At Rise, we welcome complete beginners to our reformer classes. Your instructor will talk you through everything in your first session.

What should I wear to Pilates?

Comfortable, form-fitting clothing that lets you move freely. Grip socks are required in all our classes - you can bring your own or purchase a pair from us.

Is there parking at Rise Pilates Studio?

Yes! Free parking is available on Bunny Lane, just a short walk from the studio at 9 & 9a The Square, Keyworth.

Can I do both mat and reformer Pilates?

Absolutely - and many of our members do exactly that. They complement each other beautifully.