Reformer vs Mat Pilates: Which One is Right for You?

At Vurve, we believe in intuitive movement—listening to your body, honouring where you’re at, and moving in ways that make you feel alive, strong, and connected. Both Reformer and Mat Pilates have a place in the Vurve method. They offer different experiences, but both are built on the same foundation: mind-body connection, intentional movement, and a deep respect for your body’s wisdom.

Here’s a breakdown of both methods to help you decide what feels most aligned with you (or why you might want to blend both into your routine).

Reformer Pilates

The Reformer is the heartbeat of many of our signature classes at Vurve—it’s dynamic, powerful, and beautifully supportive.

Resistance That Builds Strength
The springs on a Reformer offer a unique kind of resistance that activates your muscles differently than bodyweight alone. It's not about how heavy the resistance is—it’s about how intentional your movement becomes. We love starting clients with lighter springs to help build foundational strength, then slowly layering challenge as the body adapts.

Support Meets Challenge
The Reformer supports your body while also asking you to rise. It can reduce pressure on the joints and assist in correct alignment—making it perfect for anyone recovering, rehabbing, or just learning to move more mindfully.

Tailored to You
One of the most beautiful things about the Reformer is its adaptability. Whether you’re postnatal, healing, an athlete, or just getting back into movement—every session can be uniquely tailored to meet you where you are.

A Healing Origin
Reformer Pilates was originally developed to rehabilitate injured soldiers. At Vurve, we honour that origin by approaching movement as medicine. It’s about creating strength with softness, discipline with grace.

Mat Pilates

Mat Pilates is raw, grounded, and incredibly empowering. It’s the body as it is—no frills, no machines, just pure connection.

Do It Anywhere
Mat Pilates is accessible, portable, and completely equipment-free (though you can absolutely level up with props if you like). You can move in your lounge, on a balcony, on holiday—or with us online at Vurve Studios.

Your Body is the Equipment
Working with your own body weight brings a different kind of strength and control. It builds deep core stability and asks you to find balance from within, without relying on springs or straps.

Strength Meets Flexibility
Mat Pilates helps improve your flexibility, posture, and endurance. You’ll feel muscles engage that you didn’t even know you had—and over time, you’ll notice your body moves more freely and efficiently.

Cost-Effective Wellness
With minimal setup, Mat Pilates is a beautiful way to incorporate daily movement—no studio or equipment necessary. Perfect for those beginning their journey or wanting to move on a budget.

So, Reformer or Mat?

There’s no “better” here. Just different tools for different seasons.

• Want deeper resistance and support? Try Reformer.

• Want flexibility and freedom? Lean into Mat.

• Want both? It's all here at Vurve. 

We believe in diversity of movement, tuning into your cycle, your energy, your needs—and choosing what feels right in the moment.

At Vurve Studios, we offer both Reformer and Mat-based practices—each class rooted in mindful movement, breath, and inner strength. Whether you’re moving to sweat, to stretch, or to come back home to yourself, there’s a space for you here.

Final Note from the Vurve Team
Whether it’s the Reformer guiding you through resistance or the mat grounding you in your own power—this practice is about more than Pilates. It’s about reclaiming your body, your strength, and your voice. That’s what the Vurve method is all about.

Come find your rhythm.