Matwork Pilates, Reformer Pilates and Studio Pilates: What’s the Difference?

If you are new to Pilates, it can sometimes feel confusing trying to understand the different styles of Pilates available today. You may have heard terms such as matwork Pilates, reformer Pilates, studio Pilates, clinical Pilates, or equipment Pilates and wondered what the actual difference is between them. The good news is that they all come from the same Pilates method and share many of the same core principles, including:

• Breath

• Control

• Alignment

• Precision

• Flow

• Body awareness

However, the way the exercises are performed and the equipment used can vary quite a lot depending on the style of Pilates being taught.

What Is Matwork Pilates?

Matwork Pilates is one of the most traditional and foundational forms of Pilates. Matwork classes are primarily performed on a mat using bodyweight exercises, sometimes with the addition of small props such as resistance bands, Pilates balls, foam rollers, magic circles/Pilates rings, or light hand weights. Many of the original Pilates principles and movement patterns are taught through mat-based exercises, making matwork an important foundation within the Pilates method. Because matwork relies mostly on bodyweight movement, it can be a fantastic way to develop:

• Core strength

• Posture and alignment

• Body awareness

• Coordination

• Mobility and flexibility

• Control and stability

At Cooma Pilates, classes focus on supportive matwork Pilates in a welcoming and approachable environment.

What Is Reformer Pilates?

Reformer Pilates uses a specialised piece of Pilates equipment called the Reformer. The Reformer features a moving carriage connected to a spring resistance system, allowing exercises to be performed with varying levels of support or resistance. Reformer Pilates can feel quite different from matwork Pilates because the equipment changes how the body moves and interacts with resistance. Some people enjoy Reformer Pilates because the equipment:

• Adds variety to exercises

• Provides spring resistance

• Can assist certain movements

• Can increase challenge in different ways

• Offers a different movement experience

Reformer Pilates classes can range from gentle and supportive through to highly athletic depending on the instructor, studio style, and class level.

What Is Studio Pilates?

The term “studio Pilates” usually refers to Pilates sessions performed using larger specialised Pilates equipment. This may include:

• Reformer

• Cadillac or Trapeze Table

• Wunda Chair

• Ladder Barrel

• Spine Corrector

These pieces of equipment were also developed by Joseph Pilates as part of the original Pilates method. Studio Pilates sessions are often:

• One-on-one private sessions

• Semi-private sessions

• Small group equipment classes

Because studio equipment allows for a wide variety of exercise options, studio sessions can sometimes be more individualised depending on the person’s needs, goals, movement experience, or rehabilitation requirements.

Is One Better Than the Other?

Not necessarily. Matwork Pilates, reformer Pilates, and studio Pilates are simply different ways of practicing Pilates. Each style has its own benefits, challenges, and movement experiences. Some people prefer matwork Pilates because they enjoy the simplicity of bodyweight movement and the strong focus on control, posture, and body awareness. Others enjoy Reformer Pilates because they like the spring resistance, moving equipment, and variety of exercises available. Many people enjoy combining different styles of Pilates depending on their goals, preferences, and access to equipment.

Which Type of Pilates Is Best for Beginners?

This often depends on the individual, the instructor, and the style of class being offered. Beginner-friendly matwork Pilates can be a fantastic introduction to Pilates because it helps people learn:

• Basic Pilates principles

• Breathing patterns

• Core control

• Alignment

• Awareness of movement

Studio or reformer sessions can also be excellent for beginners, particularly in smaller or more individualised settings where exercises can be tailored more specifically to the person.

Pilates Is More Than Just Equipment

One common misconception is that Pilates is only “real Pilates” if equipment is involved. In reality, matwork Pilates remains a very important and traditional part of the Pilates method. The equipment does not replace the principles of Pilates — it simply offers another way to explore movement, strength, control, and body awareness. Whether on a mat or equipment, Pilates is ultimately about learning to move with greater awareness, control, balance, and efficiency.

Final Thoughts

There is no single “best” type of Pilates. The most important thing is finding a style, instructor, and environment that helps you feel supported, comfortable, and motivated to move. Whether you choose matwork Pilates, reformer Pilates, or studio Pilates, all forms of Pilates share the same goal — helping people move and feel better through mindful, controlled movement.