17/01/2026
Reformer Pilates is going through a bit of a trend at the moment but did you know what it was originally developed for? Did you know it is not as "new" as you might think and that it is NOT a progression from Mat Pilates to the next step? In fact Mat Pilates is more challenging especially at the start, requiring more load tolerance, control and less support than reformer Pilates, especially at beginner level.
Reformer Pilates was developed by the main man himself, Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century and was one of his original pieces of Pilates equipment (there are many, cadillac, wunda chair, spine corrector to name a few). Mat Pilates came first and Joseph developed the reformer to help those with injuries and weakened bodies to recover and rehabilitate safely using the springs, pulleys etc for extra support to build back up strength and control.
If you are a beginner recently recovering from an injury, you've had a surgery recently, you have a bone/joint or other medical condition, the reformer when taught by a properly qualifed instructor who understands your condition works really well.
If you are looking for a type of Pilates you can practice at home, take anywhere, you don't require high levels of support, Mat Pilates works really well for this.
Both methods are wonderful and when done together you get a really great combination of benefits.
We recommend giving us a call or email first before deciding which method is best for you and we can advise you based on your current level of fitness, goals, injury and medical history.