Mat vs pilates equipment

Pilates is one of the fastest growing exercise choices around today, but people are sometimes confused about exactly what it's about. Some exercises are performed on a floor mat, while others seem to involve strange looking bits of equipment. The reason for this confusion is simple - there are two forms of Pilates, mat vs. equipment.

Mat workouts lend themselves to group classes, and are a good way to become familiar with Pilates. There are mat classes suitable for all fitness levels, from novice students through to long-time adherents. Mat classes emphasize the key principles of breathing, body positioning, and movement integration. However, even though this form of Pilates can be performed in groups, beware of large group classes - form is crucial to Pilates, so it is essential that the instructor can observe and correct when necessary.

Equipment workouts usually combine Pilates mat and equipment exercises into an integrated program. The overall effect is a series of deep conditioning exercises which will develop stability in your core muscles. Students report that this type of exercise can lengthen and strengthen every muscle in the body, so you look and feel different, have more energy and move more gracefully.

Whichever type you choose, you will utilize the key principles of breathing, spinal alignment, body organization, and functional movement. The two approaches are complementary, and you will experience the best results when both are practiced.