Mat vs Reformer Pilates: Which One Should I Start With?

If you’re thinking about trying Pilates but aren’t sure whether to start with Mat or Reformer, you’re in exactly the right place. Both options are suitable for beginners and more experienced movers - they just offer different sensations, different challenges, and different ways to connect with your body.

There’s no right or wrong choice. Just what feels good for you.

Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the difference so you can pick what feels most exciting (or least intimidating!) for your first class.

So… what’s the actual difference?

🧘‍♀️ Mat Pilates

Mat is your grounded, equipment-free version of Pilates, with the option of using small props like balls, rings and resistance bands. It’s brilliant for building strength, mobility, co-ordination and body awareness.

At Innerform we offer:

• Mat Gentle - slow, restorative, easeful (Injury and Elderly)

• Mat Align - thoughtful, alignment-led, classical-inspired

• Mat Dynamic - strong, uplifting and a bit sweatier

All three are suitable for beginners and seasoned movers alike - the challenge comes from how you move, not the level you’re at.

🛠️ Reformer Pilates

Reformer uses a moving carriage, springs and straps to support or challenge your body depending on how they’re set up. The machine is incredibly versatile - it can make things gentler or it can make things spicy.

We offer two levels:

• Foundation - ideal for learning the machine, building technique and feeling confident with the basics

• Intermediate - designed for those who already feel comfortable on the Reformer and want more complexity, flow and challenge

Here’s the key:

• Reformer Foundation is suitable for all levels - beginners, returners, and more experienced movers.

• Reformer Intermediate is not for beginners and should be taken once you’ve built confidence with the machine (we recommend at least 3 Foundation classes first).

  
  

Your instructor will still layer movements within each level so you can work at the right intensity for your body - but Intermediate assumes you know your way around the Reformer.

What’s easier? What’s harder?

Neither - it depends on the movement.

• On the Reformer, springs can assist you (making a move feel easier) or add resistance (making it tougher).

• On the Mat, working with just your bodyweight can feel supportive… or incredibly challenging.

The difficulty isn’t in the equipment - it’s in how the movement is layered. And we layer everything. Always.

Which one should I start with? Here’s how to decide:

Start with Mat if you want to…

• Move at a steady, grounded pace

• Focus on technique and body awareness

• Build strength using your own bodyweight

• Explore different styles (Gentle, Align, Dynamic)

  
  

Mat is also great if you want a simple setup — walk in, breathe, move.

Start with Reformer if you want to…

• Explore movement with support from the springs

• Strengthen your whole body with smooth, flowing resistance

• Work on alignment and control with feedback from the carriage

• Try something that looks fancy but is surprisingly accessible

  
  

Reformer Foundation is a lovely starting point simply because you learn how the machine works - not because it’s “easier”, but because it’s a clean slate to build from.

If you're still unsure - mix and match.

Most Innerform members quickly realise they love both for different reasons.

• Mat builds deep strength, body awareness and control.

• Reformer adds feedback, resistance and that delicious gliding feel.

Together, they support posture, mobility, balance and everyday strength beautifully.

And what about Barre, Yoga & Small Group PT?

All three blend beautifully with both Mat and Reformer, especially if you want a well-rounded routine.

• Barre - upbeat, low-impact toning that works your legs, glutes and posture with tiny, satisfying movements.

• Yoga - breath-led flow that builds strength, mobility and calm.

• Small Group PT - form-focused strength training (max 8 people) using weights, bands and bodyweight. It helps you build real, measurable progress at your own pace, with a coach who adapts exercises to your level.

All of these are beginner-friendly and designed to complement your Pilates practice - helping you feel stronger, more mobile and more confident day to day.

Your best starting point? The class you’re most curious about.

If it sparks even a tiny bit of excitement, that’s the one.

Our 3 classes for £33 intro offer lets you try any combination — Mat, Reformer, Barre, Yoga or Small Group PT — so you can explore without pressure and discover what your body loves. Credits activate on your first class and last 14 days.

And if choosing still feels like a lot, message us anytime — we’ll help you find the perfect starting point for your goals, your confidence level and your schedule.

Can’t wait to welcome you in 💛