Mat or Reformer? The Classic Pilates Debate
When you begin training to become a Pilates instructor, one of the first big choices you might face is whether to focus on Matwork Pilates or Reformer Pilates – and which one is right to start with. Both have unique benefits, and at VIVA Pilates Education, we offer courses for both to give you flexibility in your teaching path.
What is Mat Pilates? – Body-weight, Mindful, Accessible
Mat Pilates relies on your body’s own weight, performed on a mat, without the use of specialized apparatus. It emphasizes core stability, alignment, flexibility, breathing, and flow – making it a highly accessible form of Pilates for beginners and advanced alike. Matwork is often praised for its grounding, low-impact nature, and ability to foster body awareness.
At VIVA, our Matwork Level 1 course is designed to equip you with complete knowledge of classic Pilates exercises, correct form and alignment, safety, communication cues, and exercise progressions and regressions – so you can teach confidently whether in studio, small groups, outdoors or online.
Pros of Mat Pilates for instructors:
- Simple, minimal equipment – great for studio classes, online or at-home sessions.
- Appeals to beginners or clients with limited mobility.
- Emphasises core control, breath, alignment, and mind-body connection.
What is Reformer Pilates? – Spring-based Resistance, Full-Body Conditioning
Reformer Pilates uses specialized spring-based apparatus to add resistance, provide support or challenge, and enable a broader range of movements. This allows for increased strength training, flexibility, joint stability, balance, coordination – often with deeper engagement of core and stabilising muscles. At VIVA, our Reformer Course covers the mechanics, breath, alignment, and essence of 120 exercises (plus modifications) on the Reformer – giving instructors the skills to deliver dynamic, powerful, and versatile Pilates classes in studio or group settings.
Pros of Reformer Pilates for instructors:
- Enables a broader exercise repertoire – strength, stability, flexibility, coordination.
- Suitable for clients of all fitness levels, including rehab, athletic training or advanced conditioning.
- Offers variety – great for keeping students engaged and committed.
Which Should You Learn First as an Instructor? – It Depends on Your Goals
MATWORK PROs
- If you want an accessible, equipment-light option – ideal for small groups or online/at-home classes
- An essential stepping stone to master body-awareness, breath, alignment and fundamentals before moving to reformer and will prepare you to pick up similar moves in reformer pilates teaching.
- Great option if you plan to work with rehab clients, mobility limitations, or beginners
REFORMER PROs
Aim to teach in fully-equipped Pilates studios with spring-based Pilates apparatus
Want to offer strength, flexibility & full-body conditioning with dynamic programming
If you want something a little bit more dynamic to teach and advance with in the Pilates space.
What VIVA recommends: If you’re newer to Pilates instruction, starting with Matwork can be a great foundation – you master the basics of alignment, breath, core work and communication. Once comfortable, progressing to Reformer broadens your skillset and versatility as an instructor. Many VIVA students choose to do both
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer – both Mat and Reformer Pilates offer unique advantages for instructors and clients. The best choice depends on your teaching goals, the environment you want to teach in, and your student audience.
Want a complete toolkit? Explore VIVA’s upcoming course dates and choose the path that fits you – Mat, Reformer, or both.
