Difference Between Mat Pilates & Reformer Pilates
Pilates is a form of exercise that has been proven to increase core strength, flexibility, mobility, balance, and muscle tone. That said, there are two popular types of Pilates that many people flock to; Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates. So which one is better, you might ask? This is one of the most common questions we get asked at our Upper East Side Pilates studio. Because Reformer and Mat routines provide comparable advantages, it shouldn't surprise you that many people (both Pilates novices and veterans) are frequently perplexed about which form is ideal for their present objectives and capabilities. Continue reading to learn what the major distinctions are, as well as which one you should select.
Mat Vs Reformer Pilates | Pilates Classes in Upper East Side
Both Mat and Reformer Pilates are great for toning your muscles and strengthening your core. They also teach you to start the movements from your body's powerhouse (core/centering), which will quickly translate into benefits in your everyday life. While you may do the same series of exercises on the reformer as you can on the mat, the workouts are very different. Mat classes work with only body weight because Pilates exercises don't require resistance.
Mat Pilates in Upper East Side:
The Pilates method of exercise is based on Pilates mat work. A standard Pilates mat session will target your legs, stomach, and lower and upper back muscles. Body weight puts resistance against gravity when you exercise on the mat, making the workout more difficult in many cases. Rather than depending on the springs and cables of an apparatus, you must have complete control of your body. For beginners, mat work is a great option because you focus on learning how to control your muscles during the exercises.
But despite that, more advanced mat classes are the hardest because you’re using your body all the time; There isn't a reformer there to assist or support you. Mat Pilates may not seem as exciting or challenging as Reformer Pilates, but many students see results (improved strength, posture, agility, flexibility, toned muscles) within just a few mat Pilates classes!
Upper East Side Reformer Pilates:
The Pilates reformer is a piece of equipment originally designed by Joseph Pilates that helps people to stretch and strengthen their muscles. The reformer is made up of a carriage that slides on a bed, with straps and pulleys that can be adjusted to make the exercise more or less difficult. Many newcomers are a bit intimidated by the reformer when they first see it because it looks almost like some medieval torture device, but don't worry! After just one or two workouts on a reformer, you will realize it is the most versatile and effective piece of Pilates equipment out there and a lot of fun!
The Reformer serves as a support for your body by assisting it in achieving proper form. The machine's springs serve as resistance to Pilates exercises, adding to the intensity of the workouts. To build muscle strength in larger muscle groups, extra springs may be added, or lower springs can be used to challenge the stabilizing muscles. The machine's intensity level can be changed to accommodate different users, making it a very practical tool. Additionally, the support and resistance offered by the machine allow people of all levels (including those with injuries or limited mobility) safely do exercises.
The pulley and spring system on the Reformer creates resistance, meaning there are many more exercises available than on a mat. You can do simple movements to complex ones while lying down, sitting, or standing. The Reformer also provides a tougher strength and endurance workout than mat classes, so you'll see results more quickly. Overall, you can perform a greater number of exercises on a reformer as opposed to just using a mat. Additionally, the machine enables you to exercise while in many different positions, such as lying down on your back or side, sitting up, or even standing.
The Reformer Pilates method is also useful for rehabilitation since it allows the client to work out in a horizontal plane of movement rather than vertically powered and weight-bearing through their legs. This horizontal plane, for example, allows people to build muscle in the legs by using a greater range of motion with less resistance than their own body weight. This helps them recover more quickly by engaging controlled movement.
Reformer Pilates can be a great option for people with scoliosis who may not be able to do Mat Pilates very well. A Reformer machine can help them increase their range of motion safely and effectively. Reformer Pilates can benefit people of any age and can be customized to work with your body’s needs. Reformer Pilates is a great form of strength, postural, flexibility, balance and endurance training and can be designed to target one specific area, smaller muscle groups, or as a whole body muscular exercise.
Which Manhattan Pilates Class Should You Choose?
Are you still having trouble deciding between a Mat Pilates or a Reformer Pilates workout? There's no need to stress over it; most people will get the same advantages from both approaches. Both will teach you how to use your core effectively, which will translate into benefits in everyday activities and sports. For those who have pains or chronic imbalances, the reformer is preferable to the mat. The most common misconception is that Reformer Pilates is more difficult than Mat Pilates, when in reality it might be the opposite in an advanced session (which will result in quicker results). It's vital that you keep up your practice and stick to the principles of Pilates (breath, centering, concentration, control, precision, and flow) throughout a class to get the very best outcomes.
Looking for a Great Upper East Side Pilates Studio?
At ChaiseFitness, we believe that anyone can be fit—no matter what skill level or body type. This belief inspired the creation of our patented Reinvention Method, which is for everyone—the athlete, the dancer, the beginner, the advanced, the rebuilder. We blend Pilates, ballet, and strength training and equip you with a chair and overhead bungees so that you work out all your muscles every time. We are located in the Upper East Side in Manhattan. For more information, you can contact us at (973)996-2063, or visit our website.