Reformer Pilates vs. Mat Pilates (and the Tower!) Which One Should You Try First?
If you’re new to Pilates, you’ve probably noticed there are a few different ways to practice: on a mat, on a reformer, or on a tower. While all three follow the same Pilates principles, each offers a different experience, challenge, and benefit.
At Kin, we teach all three styles in small, personalized classes and we love helping clients find the format that best supports their goals and lifestyle. Let’s break them down so you can decide where to start.
Mat Pilates: The Pure, Portable Foundation
Mat Pilates is exactly what it sounds like. Pilates done on a mat, sometimes with small props like rings, bands, or balls. It’s the foundation of Joseph Pilates’ method and is where many people first fall in love with the work.
What to Expect:
Bodyweight exercises that strengthen, stretch, and mobilize the entire body.
A focus on core strength, stability, and precise control.
Small props to add resistance or assistance.
Best For:
Building a deep understanding of Pilates principles.
Practicing anywhere - no equipment required.
Those who want to work primarily with bodyweight resistance.
Pro Tip: Don’t mistake “mat” for “easier.” Without the support of springs, you’re responsible for all the stability, which can be a major challenge.
Tower Pilates: Mat Work with a Spring-Loaded Twist
Think of the Tower as mat Pilates that’s been supercharged. It’s essentially a raised mat with a vertical frame attached, equipped with springs, bars, and straps.
What to Expect:
The familiarity of mat-based movements such as roll-ups, leg series, side-lying work but with springs adding resistance or assistance.
Extra stability for challenging positions (like supported roll-backs) and added intensity when you’re ready to push further.
Exercises that can improve spinal mobility, build strength, and deepen flexibility.
Best For:
Anyone who loves the precision of mat work but wants more variety.
Beginners who appreciate a little extra support.
Experienced movers ready for new ways to challenge their stability.
Pro Tip: Because the Tower springs can both help and resist your movement, you get instant feedback about how your body is working, making it one of the fastest ways to refine your technique.
Reformer Pilates: Spring-Loaded Support & Challenge
The Reformer is one of the most iconic pieces of Pilates equipment. It’s a moving carriage on rails, connected to springs that can be adjusted for different resistance levels. You’ll use straps, bars, and the carriage itself in ways that challenge your whole body.
What to Expect:
Resistance and assistance from the springs to guide your movement.
Exercises in a variety of positions- lying down, sitting, kneeling, and standing.
The ability to target muscles more specifically and explore a greater range of motion.
Best For:
Those who want extra support while learning Pilates.
People looking to build strength with adjustable resistance.
Anyone who enjoys variety Reformer classes can feel different every time.
Pro Tip: The Reformer is amazing for both beginners and advanced movers—spring settings and exercise variations can make it gentle or seriously athletic.
How They’re Similar
Whether you’re on the mat, Tower, or Reformer, all Pilates formats share the same DNA:
The six Pilates principles concentration, control, centering, precision, breath, and flow.
A focus on balanced strength and mobility.
Movements designed to improve posture, coordination, and body awareness.
Which Should You Try First?
If you want the purest foundation: Start with mat Pilates to master the basics.
If you want more feedback & versatility: Try the Tower! It bridges the gap between mat and equipment work beautifully.
If you want a dynamic, full-body experience: Go for the Reformer.
Many of our clients enjoy moving between all three, keeping their practice fresh and their bodies adapting.
Start Your Pilates Journey at Kin
At Kin, our Simple Start Plan makes it easy to try our small-group Reformer and Tower classes. You’ll get 3 classes for $89, so you can experience the equipment, learn the principles, and discover which style feels best for you.
Whether you begin on the mat, the Tower, or the Reformer, we’ll guide you every step of the way with clear instruction and personalized attention.