Pilates isn’t exactly a new concept (I mean, Rachel was doing it in Friends), but it has boomed in popularity over the last year. Here in the UAE, the rise in aesthetically stunning Reformer Pilates studios, combined with the growing wellness movement could be to blame. Or, maybe we’re all just realising that Pilates really does give you a great stretch and can be great exercise too. Coupled with an iced matcha, you’ve got the perfect weekend morning! 

What is Pilates?  

Pilates is a full body exercise concept designed to be low impact. It focuses on improving strength, balance, and flexibility. It’s been in existence for around a century (German inventor Joseph Pilates opened the first studio in New York in the 1920s), but was particularly popular in the 90s, and has had a huge resurgence in the last couple of years. As many of us move towards a more mindful way of living, Pilates embodies this with a focus on considered and intentional movement, improved breathing and mental clarity.  

So, what is the difference between reformer and mat Pilates? 

Mat Pilates, as the name suggests, is done on a mat, such as yoga mat. Reformer Pilates is performed on a specialist platform, which consists of a sliding carriage, pulley straps and adjustable springs to give customisable resistance.  

Elle, founder of Posture, with two studios based in Dubai, tells us more about the difference; “the Reformer is often the most recognisable, ‘trendy’ workout because of its moving carriage and springs. It adds resistance, which can make exercises more accessible for beginners and of course, more challenging as you progress. Mat Pilates strips it back to bodyweight only, which means you rely entirely on your own strength and control”.  

The array of movements available can be wider with Reformer Pilates, as the carriage and straps offer more dynamic and complex movements, especially when combined with additional props such as the ‘box’ or Pilates ball. Mat Pilates focuses on the same core stability and precise movement but with a slightly more limited selection of positions and movement. 

What are the similarities between mat and Reformer Pilates?  

Both methods are based on Joseph Pilates’ original theories, and focus on providing full body, low-intensity work outs as Elle tells us, “The magic is that both come from the same foundation. Whether you’re lying on the mat or moving on the Reformer, you should always be working through Joseph Pilates’ original 6 principles: control, concentration, centring, breath, precision and flow”.  

“Both methods challenge your strength, mobility and body awareness. At Posture, we emphasise that the apparatus is there to enhance your practice, but the method itself is always consistent throughout our teaching.” 

Is reformer Pilates the winner for me? 

Whilst both types of Pilates offer amazing physical and mental health benefits, Reformer Pilates can offer faster strength gains and full body toning due to the added resistance, “the Reformer offers sculpting through resistance; think lengthened muscles, strengthened core, and definition, especially in your arms and legs” says Elle.  

Reformer Pilates can also be great for those who are recovering from an injury or going through rehabilitation as the added guidance from the carriage can offer additional support throughout the workout.

…or mat Pilates?  

Mat Pilates is excellent at building a core, foundational strength and improving posture, balance and flexibility. Due to the lack of support from equipment, mat Pilates engages your core muscles, such as abs and lower back, in pretty much every position and movement to keep you steady. You might not feel the burn quite as much as a reformer class, but you still build a steady and store core strength that you can develop with more complex moves and classes. As a starting point, this is a great option for beginners.  

“Neither is ‘better’, they simply train the body in different ways”, Elle says. “When taught together as part of the full system, you get the most powerful results. I personally love mat work and believe it is the foundation for the whole system”.  

What about cost?  

With mat Pilates, you can always roll out a yoga mat, or even a towel, and get going with a free YouTube class to follow, which is a great option for those on a budget or just starting out with Pilates.  

When it comes to classes, mat classes tend to be cheaper than Pilates classes due to the reduced equipment costs, whereas Reformer classes can be a little higher. Here in Dubai, mat classes can cost around 90-130Dhs per class, and reformer prices start at around 150Dhs per class. Many studios do offer bundle class packages or subscription models, which can bring the price-per-class down. 

Sold yet? Check out our round up of the best Pilates studios in Dubai here to get started!