Pilates on a reformer vs on a mat

Pilates is a wonderful form of exercise no matter where you perform it however many enthusiasts are now taking up reformer Pilates in an attempt to get level up there game. But what exactly are the benefits of practising Pilates on a reformer vs on a matt? Keep reading to find out.

What is a Pilates reformer

The Pilates reformer was invented by Joseph Pilates as a way to improve the method of exercise. The structure consists of a carriage which rolls back and forth on a set of wheels within the frame. The springs within the reformer provide various levels of resistance

The great thing about a pilates reformer it can accommodate a full range of motion. This helps you increase flexibility by pushing yourself in a way that is hard to mimic on a standard pilates map. All this helps increase strength without increasing the bulk of the muscle, one of the key selling points of pilates.

The cost vs the benefits

The first thing that will become apparent with reformers is the price. The standard mid-range reformer will set back anywhere between £1000 and £2000 new.

What you get for your money is a piece of equipment that will provide all the benefits of standard Pilates in addition to the strength benefits that come with the different resistance levels.  The reduction in stability of the carriage on a reformer engages a whole host of different stabilising muscles that drastically improve your pilates workout.

Just like regular Pilates, you can pick the level of exercise to suit your level of experience. There are more advanced exercises that require more skill with a reformer and with some guidance, it is also easy enough to get started on the equipment.

Where can I learn more about practising Pilates on a reformer

It can be tricky to know where to start on a Pilates reformer. For this reason, we recommend starting out with a Pilates class to build a good foundational knowledge in the subject.

Have a look at our pilates class search feature to find a class near you, and do not hesitate to get in contact if you have any Pilates related questions.