What is the difference between the Pilates Mat and the Pilates Reformer?
Both Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates offer unique benefits and can be effective forms of exercise, depending on individual goals and needs. Mat Pilates is a form of Pilates that involves performing exercises on a mat using body weight as resistance.
It is a low-impact form of exercise that can help improve core strength, balance, flexibility, and posture. Mat Pilates can be done anywhere as it requires minimal equipment, making it a convenient option for home workouts or traveling.
Reformer Pilates involves performing exercises on a specially designed machine called a reformer, which provides resistance through springs and pulleys. It can help improve strength, flexibility, balance, and coordination and is particularly useful for people recovering from an injury or those with joint issues.
Both forms of Pilates can be effective for different fitness goals and levels. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual goals and preferences. Reformer Pilates is a low-impact form of exercise that utilizes a specially designed machine called a reformer. Here are some of the benefits of practicing Pilates on the Reformer:
Improved Strength
Reformer Pilates exercises focus on improving core strength, stability, and balance. This can help improve overall strength, which can have a positive impact on daily activities.
Increased Flexibility
Reformer Pilates exercises can help improve flexibility, range of motion, and joint mobility. This can help reduce muscle tension and prevent injuries.
Low Impact
Reformer Pilates is a low-impact form of exercise, making it an ideal option for people with joint issues or those recovering from an injury.
Improved Posture
Reformer Pilates exercises can help improve posture by strengthening the muscles that support the spine and improving alignment.
Increased Body Awareness
Reformer Pilates exercises require focus and concentration, which can improve body awareness and mindfulness.
Stress Reduction
Reformer Pilates exercises can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, making them an excellent option for people looking to de-stress and unwind. Pilates involves breath work, which can contribute to this.
Customizable Workouts
Reformer Pilates exercises can be modified to suit different fitness levels and goals, making it a versatile form of exercise. There are several ways to use Pilates equipment or mat Pilates exercises that are appropriate for all fitness levels. It is best to begin Pilates with a trainer or at a facility where you can get direct instructions on form and performance of the basics.
Overall, reformer Pilates is an effective form of exercise that can have numerous physical and mental health benefits. Details are highlighted below.
How many times a week should you do Reformer Pilates?
I recommend that you do two to three Pilates Reformer classes or private sessions per week. Once a week is a good start, but there is too much time in between sessions for a beginner to get the mental and physical aspects of Pilates.
Two to three times per week is recommended for novice Pilates students, and once the mental awareness starts to improve, it is fine to attend less frequently. I would also recommend taking five private lessons before jumping into a group class with multiple people and less individual attention.
Is mat Pilates as good as reformer Pilates?
Mat Pilates, in my opinion, is more difficult than reformer Pilates, at least at first. I encourage people to start with the reformer and progress to mat work. The reformer is designed to assist and resist. The assistance from the reformer initially really helps with the awareness improvements.
Mat Pilates is basically you and gravity on a mat. It is more accessible and cheaper than using the reformer, but more challenging for the novice Pilates student. In our Pilates teacher training program, we progress our students through the reformer and other Pilates equipment before teaching mat work. This allows them time to get stronger, both mentally and physically, before progressing to the more challenging mat work.
What are the benefits of reformer Pilates?
The reformer is a great piece of exercise equipment that offers hundreds and hundreds of unique exercises. You can strengthen your entire body in one session while focusing on mental awareness of proper form and breathing. Pilates is a total-body workout that does not isolate the back, biceps, chest, and legs on separate days.
In Pilates, all exercises originate from the powerhouse, or core. If you are doing leg exercises or arm exercises, your core is engaged, or should be engaged, with every exercise. Core strength, pain reduction, improved posture, and flexibility are some of the benefits that our Pilates clients and physical therapy patients report every day using the Pilates reformer.
How fast do you see results with Reformer Pilates?
Joseph Pilates had a quote that said, "In 10 sessions you'll feel the difference, in 20 you'll see the difference, and in 30 you'll have a new body." I will leave that answer to the man who created the system and equipment.
Is reformer Pilates good for weight loss?
Pilates is not a magic pill for weight loss, but it can be a great complement to eating healthy and performing cardio exercises. There is some cardio in Pilates Reformer classes, but that is not the intention. We see people tone up and make postural improvements that are just as powerful as weight loss.
Reformer Pilates can be an effective component of a weight loss program, but it should be combined with other forms of exercise and a healthy diet for optimal results. Reformer Pilates exercises focus on building lean muscle mass, which can help boost metabolism and burn more calories even at rest.
However, Pilates alone may not burn enough calories to lead to significant weight loss. Incorporating cardiovascular exercises such as running, cycling, or swimming along with a healthy diet can help create a calorie deficit that can lead to weight loss. Additionally, Pilates can help improve body composition by building lean muscle mass while reducing body fat.
This can lead to a leaner and toned appearance, even if the number on the scale remains the same. In summary, Reformer Pilates can be a useful addition to a weight loss program, but it should be combined with other forms of exercise and a healthy diet for optimal results. If you feel you need guidance for cardio and/or nutrition, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider, nutritionist, and/or trainer.
Check out the blog from Womens Health HERE:
Learn more about the Pilates Reformer at How Do I Try A Pilates Reformer Workout For Beginners?
Call 512-215-4227 to get started with us at & Pilates in Austin / West Lake Hills, Texas.