What Is Better Pilates Mat Or Reformer

Mat pilates uses body weight while the reformer adds resistance.

What is better pilates mat or reformer.

As a certified pilates instructor i recommend that people try a pilates mat class first to learn the fundamentals without the added requirement of getting used to the reformer machine. Mat pilates is a combination of disciplines like dance yoga and classic calisthenics while the standard pilates system of workout uses different pieces of equipment such as reformer cadillac. What is critical is that regular practice is maintained and that the principles of pilates breath centering concentration control precision and flow are adhered to throughout a class to maximise the results you will see. The biggest misconception is that reformer pilates is harder than mat pilates when in fact it can be the opposite in an advanced class which will lead to faster results.

Pilates reformer class uses special pilates reformer machine as the main piece of equipment to perform pilates exercises. The reformer is an amazing way to step up your practice or deepen the concepts of control. With reformer pilates you may see muscle tone and feel stronger in a shorter time than with mat pilates but the truth is that neither is better than the other. So is pilates mat or reformer better.

We recommend a pilates mat that s a quarter inch thick twice as thick as a yoga mat to cushion pressure points during pilates moves like the 100 and the teaser. You will not be able to find the reformer machine in normal gyms. The reformer uses springs for resistance along with other attachments for a wide variety of exercises and positions i e. How pilates on a reformer works.

Both build strength and increase flexibility and both can be part of a well rounded pilates practice. Mat training provides a foundation for learning to control your muscles while reformer classes add resistance to improve strength. Allowing mat principles to be a constant part of your pilates practice enables you to gain your results that much faster and efficiently. Both mat pilates and reformer pilates offer a fantastic workout but we would recommend learning the form and the flow of the class on your mat and then moving up to a reformer class if you choose to or when you are ready.

When doing pilates on a mat or a reformer the amount of resistance and tension can often vary but with a reformer it can be regulated.