Mat or Reformer? This is one of the one of the most common questions we get asked.
On the mat, your body weight provides resistance against gravity, making the workout more challenging in many cases.
Rather than depending on the support of the equipment, it requires the full control of your body. Mat work is a great for beginners as it emphasizes on control of muscles during the workout.
The Pilates reformer is a traditional piece of Pilates equipment, originally designed by Joseph Pilates, that consists of a narrow bed with sliding carriage, straps and pulleys, with varying resistant.
The intensity can be varied considerably from one person to the next by adjusting springs on the Reformer: Extra springs added to pilates exercises to build strength in the bigger muscle groups; while lower springs can be utilised to challenge the stabilising muscles.
The versatility combined with the support provided by the machines, allows anyone (including those with constrained movement or injuries) to safely complete the work.
Pilates, a low impact exercises that improves on core strength, flexibility, mobility, balance and muscle tone. Both Mat and Reformer Pilates provide similar benefits. However, Reformer that acts as a support system for the body by helping assist it into proper form is more ideal for those with injuries or chronic imbalances.
I've created a video explaining the differences of both, hope you enjoy watching it :)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTN6JsrlWDI