top of page

Reformer vs Mat Pilates

Understanding which Pilates style is best for beginners in Williamsburg and Greenpoint

Reformer and Mat Pilates both build strength, improve posture, and support long-term movement health. The difference lies in how the body is supported, how resistance is created, and what kind of experience you are looking for.

At Selformer in Williamsburg and Greenpoint, we specialize in supportive, beginner-friendly Reformer Pilates while honoring the value of Mat work. Understanding the difference can help you choose the best place to begin.

What Is Reformer Pilates?

Reformer Pilates is performed on a specialized machine that uses spring resistance, straps, and a moving carriage to guide controlled movement.

This creates a workout that is:

  • Low impact and gentle on joints

  • Deeply focused on core strength and alignment

  • Supportive for beginners learning proper form

  • Adjustable for injuries, limitations, and progression

  • Challenging enough for advanced clients

Because resistance and support are built into the machine, many people find Reformer Pilates easier to begin and more effective to progress over time.

What Is Mat Pilates?

Mat Pilates uses body weight, gravity, and small props while exercising on a padded floor mat.

​

Mat classes are typically:

  • Equipment-free and accessible anywhere

  • Focused on core endurance and stability

  • Faster paced in some class styles

  • More physically demanding for beginners without support

Mat Pilates is powerful and effective, but it can feel more challenging at the beginning because there is less external guidance for alignment and control.

Key Differences at a Glance

Support


Reformer uses spring resistance to guide and assist movement.
Mat relies entirely on body control and gravity.

​

Beginner comfort

Reformer is often more approachable for first time clients.
Mat may feel harder without prior strength or awareness.

 

Injury friendliness

Reformer allows precise adjustments and modifications.
Mat offers fewer ways to reduce physical load.

 

Progression
Reformer resistance increases as you grow stronger.
Mat progression depends mostly on body weight control.

Why Many Beginners Start With the Reformer

For people new to Pilates, the Reformer often feels:

  • More supportive and stable

  • Easier to understand and follow

  • Safer for joints, back, and posture

  • More effective for building early strength

This is why Selformer centers the studio experience around small group Reformer classes, private sessions, and guided self paced Reformer training.

The Selformer Difference

Beyond traditional Reformer classes, Selformer offers experiences that are exceptionally rare in New York.

Private Reformer Video Rooms

Completely private sessions guided by professionally produced Selformer instruction, allowing you to move at your own pace, on your own schedule, in a calm and beautifully designed space. Each room features 360 degree mirrors so you can check your form and view the screen clearly from any angle.

​

Self Service Video Reformer Stations

Independent, studio quality workouts that bridge the space between group class and private training, giving you flexibility, structure, and freedom while still being supported by the Selformer method.

These innovations make Reformer Pilates more personal, accessible, and consistent than ever before.

So Which Should You Choose?

Choose Reformer Pilates if you want:

  • Beginner-friendly support

  • Low impact strength building

  • Personalized progression

  • Guidance for injuries or posture

  • A structured, results focused workout

  • ​

Choose Mat Pilates if you prefer:

  • Equipment free movement

  • Faster paced core challenges

  • A floor based workout style

Many clients enjoy both, but starting with the Reformer often creates the strongest foundation.

Try Reformer or Mat Pilates in Williamsburg or Greenpoint

Whether you are drawn to the supportive precision of the Reformer or the grounding strength of Mat Pilates, Selformer offers welcoming ways to begin and grow your practice.

You can experience Pilates through:

  • Small group beginner-friendly Reformer classes

  • Private one-on-one sessions on the Reformer or mat

  • Private Reformer Video Rooms with space for both Reformer and mat practice

  • Self-guided Video Reformer Stations

  • Pop-up mat classes hosted at inspiring venues across Brooklyn

  • The Selformer VIP on-demand app with Mat and Reformer workouts for every level

No matter where you start, each path is designed to help you feel stronger, more confident, and connected to your movement.

Selformer VIP On-Demand Video App

Our Selformer VIP on-demand platform offers a full library of both Mat and Reformer Pilates classes across all levels, from foundational beginner sessions to more advanced, strength-focused workouts. You can choose routines with or without props, making it easy to move at home, in the studio, or while traveling. This extended digital experience allows your Pilates practice to stay consistent, flexible, and fully connected to the Selformer method wherever you are.

Book your first session and discover the Selformer experience for yourself.

please see our FAQ page for more information

Beyond traditional Reformer classes, Selformer offers experiences that are exceptionally rare in New York.

bottom of page