Mat and Reformer Pilates at Home: What’s the Difference?

You don’t need a room full of equipment to practise Pilates at home. A mat and enough space to move are a simple starting point. If you already own a Reformer, online classes offer another way to make use of it.

Mat and Reformer Pilates share the same foundations: breath, control, precision and coordinated movement. The main difference is the equipment you use and how it supports or challenges each exercise.

Here’s what to know about both.

What is Mat Pilates?

Mat Pilates uses your body weight and gravity to create challenge through a range of floor-based exercises.

Some classes include small props, such as a resistance band, soft ball or light weights, but many require only a mat.

Without a machine, you create and control the movement yourself.

Small, deliberate movements can feel surprisingly demanding.

What is Reformer Pilates?

A Reformer is a machine with a sliding carriage, adjustable springs, straps and a footbar. Exercises can be performed lying down, sitting, kneeling or standing.

Depending on the exercise, the springs provide resistance, assistance or a combination of both. Changing the spring setting changes how the movement feels, a heavier spring isn’t always harder.

At-home Reformer classes are designed for people who have access to a suitable machine.
If you already own one, online instruction can bring more structure and variety to your practice.

If you’re considering buying a Reformer, trying an introductory studio session first can help you get familiar with the equipment before investing.

Which one is better?

Neither is automatically better, and you don’t need to practise both.

Mat Pilates can be a complete practice in its own right. Reformer Pilates offers a different experience through its springs, straps and moving carriage.

Both include introductory and more challenging exercises. The difficulty depends on the movements, pace and class level, not simply whether you’re on a mat or a machine.

Getting started with what you have

If you have a mat: start with beginner Mat classes. There’s no need to buy a Reformer to continue progressing.

If you already own a Reformer: choose classes suited to your experience and equipment. Make sure you understand your machine’s settings and safety instructions before following a class.

If you have both: choose whichever fits your day. You might enjoy switching between the two.

Making Pilates part of your routine

Start with a class length and frequency that feel manageable. A short session can be easier to fit into your week, and you can build your routine gradually.

Check each class description for its level, equipment and focus before pressing play.

Try both with Bruna Movement

At Bruna Movement, you can choose Mat Pilates for £15 a month, or Mat & Reformer Pilates for £20 a month. Press play whenever suits you, wherever you are.

We're launching in December. The first 20 people to join the waitlist become Founding Members, with their first month free.

Always listen to your body. If you're pregnant, recovering from injury, or have a medical condition, check with your doctor or physiotherapist before starting a new exercise routine. See our Health & Wellness Disclaimer.