When you’re looking for Pilates classes, you’ll probably come across both mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates. While they can look very different, they actually come from the same method developed by Joseph Pilates more than 100 years ago. They are both part of a full system.

The full system was designed to build strength, improve mobility and help the body move better. The difference lies mainly in the equipment used.

The Origins of Pilates

Pilates was developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates, who believed that physical health and mental focus should work together.

As a child he struggled with asthma and poor health, which led him to explore ways of strengthening the body. He studied gymnastics, boxing and a variety of movement disciplines before developing his own method.

During the First World War he worked with injured soldiers and began experimenting with springs attached to hospital beds to help them rebuild strength. These early ideas later evolved into the Pilates equipment we know today.

When he opened his studio in New York in the 1920s, Pilates called his method Contrology, emphasising the importance of controlled, mindful movement.

What is Mat Pilates?

Mat Pilates is the most traditional form of Pilates and hardly any equipment — usually just a mat.

Exercises rely mainly on bodyweight resistance, meaning your body must stabilise and control each movement without assistance from equipment.

Mat Pilates helps develop:

• Core strength

• Flexibility and mobility

• Balance and coordination

• Better posture and body awareness

Although the exercises may appear simple, performing them with control and precision can be surprisingly challenging. If you've ever taken a mat Pilates class you will understand!

What is Reformer Pilates?

Reformer Pilates uses a specialised piece of equipment called a Reformer. The machine has a moving carriage and adjustable springs that create resistance.

The springs can either increase the challenge or support the body depending on the exercise.

Reformer Pilates can help:

• Build strength through resistance

• Improve control and stability

• Support rehabilitation and injury recovery

• Add variety to Pilates training

Because the resistance can be adjusted, it’s suitable for beginners as well as experienced exercisers.

The Main Difference Between Mat and Reformer Pilates

The biggest difference is the type of resistance used.

• Mat Pilates: uses your own body weight

• Reformer Pilates: uses adjustable springs on the equipment

Mat work often requires more self-stabilisation, while the Reformer can provide additional support or challenge.

What Both Types of Pilates Have in Common

Despite the equipment differences, the principles of Pilates remain the same.

Both mat and reformer Pilates focus on:

• Controlled, precise movement

• Strength through the core

• Whole-body integration

• Quality of movement over high repetitions

Ultimately, the goal of Pilates is to build a body that moves well and feels strong in everyday life.

Which Type of Pilates is Best?

Both mat and reformer Pilates have unique benefits.

Mat Pilates develops deep control and body awareness, while Reformer Pilates adds resistance and greater exercise variety. Many people find that combining both gives the most balanced results.

At its heart, Pilates isn’t about the equipment — it’s about developing strength, control and confidence in the way your body moves.