Reformer vs Mat Pilates: What's the Difference and Which Is Right for You?
Both build core strength, flexibility and better movement — the difference is the equipment. Mat Pilates uses your body weight on the floor, while reformer Pilates uses a spring-loaded machine that adds adjustable resistance and support. Reformer is often the easier place to start because the machine guides your movement and the resistance can be tailored to your level. Soul Athletic specialises in reformer Pilates across Bayside Melbourne and the Gold Coast, with beginner-friendly classes.
What is mat Pilates?
Mat Pilates is done on the floor using your own body weight for resistance, sometimes with small props like resistance bands, rings or light weights. It's accessible, portable and great for building core control. Because there's no machine assisting you, some exercises can actually be quite challenging for beginners.
What is reformer Pilates?
Reformer Pilates is done on a machine called a reformer — a sliding carriage with adjustable springs, straps and a footbar. The springs create resistance that can be increased or decreased, and the machine supports your body through each movement. This makes it highly adaptable: the same exercise can be gentle for a beginner or intense for an advanced member.
What are the main differences?
Resistance: Mat uses body weight; reformer uses adjustable springs, so you can fine-tune the challenge.
Support: The reformer guides and supports your movement, which can make correct form easier to find. On the mat, you rely entirely on your own control.
Variety: The reformer's straps, springs and carriage allow a wider range of exercises and muscle targeting.
Beginner accessibility: Many people find reformer more approachable to start with, because resistance can be lowered and the machine assists you.
Convenience: Mat Pilates can be done anywhere; reformer requires a studio and equipment.
Which is better for beginners?
Reformer Pilates is often the friendlier starting point. The adjustable springs mean movements can be scaled to your ability, and the machine's support helps you learn correct alignment with an instructor guiding you. That said, a good beginner mat class is also very accessible — the best choice often comes down to what's available near you and what you enjoy.
Which burns more or builds more strength?
Neither is universally "better" — it depends on the class and how you use it. Reformer classes can add significant resistance for strength building, while dynamic mat classes can be surprisingly demanding on your core and stabilisers. Both, done consistently, build noticeable strength, tone and mobility. Consistency matters more than the format you choose.
Can I do both?
Absolutely — many people do. Reformer builds strength and control with support and resistance, while mat work sharpens the body-weight control that carries over to everything else. Doing both gives you variety and a well-rounded practice.
How do I choose?
Ask yourself:
Am I brand new? Reformer's adjustability and support make it a comfortable place to start.
What's near me? A studio you can get to easily is the one you'll stick with. Soul Athletic has six Bayside Melbourne studios plus Tugun on the Gold Coast.
What do I enjoy? The best Pilates is the one you'll keep coming back to.
Try reformer Pilates at Soul Athletic
If you'd like to try reformer Pilates, the easiest first step is a beginner-friendly intro pack. Soul Athletic's new-client offer lets you try the reformer across its Bayside Melbourne and Gold Coast studios — with small classes and instructors who welcome first-timers.
Soul Athletic is a family-run reformer Pilates studio celebrating 10 years across Bayside Melbourne and the Gold Coast, welcoming all levels including beginners.