Reformer Pilates or Mat Pilates

If you have not tried Reformer Pilates or Mat Pilates before, which one should you choose to increase core strength, improve flexibility and balance, and enhance your posture?

Pilates

Pilates, created by Joseph Pilates is a system of exercises built to improve strength, alignment, body awareness and flexibility using precision, breath and control as 3 of his 8 guiding principles. He himself used the term Contrology and developed a set of exercises to assist with this.

Mat Pilates

The original 34 mat exercises were developed during Joseph Pilates time in a prisoner of war camp using body weight to improve strength and flexibility.

Mat Pilates offers greater affordability and can often hold larger numbers with more classes taking place in church halls, community centres and local gyms. It’s often peoples first introduction to Pilates (it was mine) and can be less intimidating than the reformer for beginners. All you need is a Mat and often a few seemingly innocent props!

Reformer Pilates

The reformer exercises came from the adaptations he made from the springs of hospital beds and therefore provide more resistance to build strength and gain flexibility.

Pilates Reformer is an amazing piece of equipment that offers greater challenges and many more exercises exploring classical and contemporary styles but can easily be adjusted to the needs of the individual and still offer the precision and alignment of the Mat. It can also be done even if you are a complete beginner who has never done Pilates.

Pilates for Injury Recovery and Medical Conditions

If your Physio has recommended Pilates to help support your rehabilitation, please let me know and we can discuss your needs. With the support of your Physio we can work safely and constructively within their guidelines, and this can be achieved from either Mat or Reformer.

Which is better – Mat Pilates or Reformer Pilates?

I personally practise both forms of Pilates as I love the precision that I found using only my body weight (though anyone who I’ve taught will tell you how much I love a prop!!!!), but also adore the reformer to gain greater strength, challenge my stability, endurance and gain greater flexibility.

Many people ‘find’ Pilates through injury, but I hope over time more people take it up as they recognise the part that Pilates can play in maintaining a high functioning lifestyle and maybe even learn to love it like me!!!!

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  • I love doing Pilates

    I love doing Pilates with Max in the calm and privacy of her beautiful and well-equipped studio.
    Chris, Woking

  • I leave feeling taller with improved posture and happiness

    During my brilliant Pilates classes with Max, I can feel my body starting to ease with stretches that strengthen and align, giving me confidence with my movements. Thank you.
    Sandra, Bordon

  • I had no idea that I could benefit so much from Pilates

    At nearly eighty years of age and after two hip replacements, I had no idea that I could benefit so much from Pilates. I have become stronger and more flexible than I think I was 25 years ago with much better balance as well!
    Christine, West Byfleet

  • Max notices absolutely everything and gives 100% of herself

    I like the clear precise instructions and immediate encouragement and feedback. Max notices absolutely everything and gives 100% of herself.
    Chris, Woking

  • Great sense of humour

    The preparation for my knee replacement and then post operation recovery has been excellent with Max – she knows just how much to push you and builds your confidence and capability with a great sense of humour!
    Ang, Deepcut

  • I’ve been amazed at how much stronger I’ve become

    I hoped Pilates could help to strengthen my core to better support my back, but I was sceptical about success fearing I’d left it too late. With Max’s guidance I’ve been amazed at how much stronger I’ve become, and even better, I’m absolutely loving the sessions. Thank you!
    Jo, Deepcut

  • Max is professional, friendly and a ton of fun

    As a chap in my 50’s, I consider I have an average mileage on my body for someone with a career behind a desk and a few ancient sports injuries. Since 2023 I’ve been having Pilates sessions and I honestly think my mobility and core strength is much better than it was ten years ago! Max is professional, friendly and a ton of fun!
    Andrew, Camberley

  • It has now become the highlight of my week

    I added Pilates into my weekly exercise programme initially following a shoulder injury but it has now become the highlight of my week, always pushing me to my limits but never without a laugh!
    Will, Heatherside

  • Make sure you come to Max – she’s brilliant

    If you want a Pilates instructor who will tailor a session to your specific needs, progress you, work you hard and ensure you have fun, make sure you come to Max – she’s brilliant.
    Caroline, Ash

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Please do get in touch if you want to know more or book a session

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