Transitioning between Mat and Reformer
There’s no doubt that group Reformer classes have experienced a surge in popularity and availability over the past few years. So much so that if you tell a friend that you practice (or teach) Pilates, you might be asked Reformer or Mat? With both Mat and Reformer being created by Joseph Pilates, both forms clearly share DNA – but what’s the real point of difference and which one should you choose? The most significant difference between Mat and Reformer is that on the Mat, you use only your own body weight as resistance. There’s no springs, straps, or foot bar to push and pull against so, in contrast to working on the Reformer, no ‘feedback’ is provided by the apparatus to help orient your body in space. This can make Mat work very challenging (especially for beginners) as it involves a level of control and concentration to figure out how to activate/isolate the targeted muscle group/s to get the most out of exercises - rather than just making a weird series of shapes on the ground (Yeah, we’ve all been there!). In contrast, the Reformer apparatus is able to increase challenge by moving at a faster tempo than its Mat work sibling and manipulating spring resistance and/or body placement - think standing on a moving carriage (Reformer) versus standing on a stable floor (Mat)! Despite these differences, the good news is that both Mat and Reformer provide benefits when it comes to strengthening and toning your body. So, why choose? Designed to complement each other perfectly, you will get more out of your Reformer workout if you combine it with Mat, and vice versa - just as Joseph Pilates intended.
Want to explore the relationship between Mat and Reformer Pilates a little more. The “Transitioning between Mat and Reformer” short course is for you.
Transitioning between Mat and Reformer (Sunday 21 November, 4pm-6pm) $60
In this 2-hour short course, Sharon will focus on exercises from both the Mat and Reformer repertoire, exploring the similarities and differences in these when performed on both apparatus. Designed to strengthen your practice in both formats, the workshop will provide a take-home workout suitable for use in open reformer sessions at Brisbane Pilates.
