Mat Pilates is a floor-based form of Pilates that focuses on building core strength, improving posture, and increasing flexibility using your own body weight as resistance. It’s the foundation of the Pilates method, developed by Joseph Pilates, and can be done anywhere with just a mat—though sometimes small props like bands, balls, or rings are added for extra challenge or support.
Unlike Reformer Pilates, which uses a machine, Mat Pilates is equipment-free and relies on control, precision, and breath to guide each movement. It’s a highly effective way to build strength from the inside out—particularly in the core, glutes, hips, and back.
How It Works
Mat Pilates exercises are performed slowly and mindfully, with an emphasis on technique and alignment. Movements are low-impact and gentle on the joints, but they’re also highly targeted—often working deep stabilising muscles you might not engage in other forms of exercise.
A typical class might include exercises lying on your back, side, stomach, or hands and knees, as well as seated or standing movements. Each one is designed to improve how your body moves, functions, and feels.
It’s not just about working hard
—it’s about working smart
Complementing each other
Mat and Reformer Pilates are two sides of the same method, and were designed to be practiced together
They create a well-rounded, balanced approach to strength, flexibility, and control.
Mat Pilates builds deep body awareness and control using only your own body weight. Because there’s no external resistance or support, your core and stabilising muscles have to work harder to control your movements. It helps you master the foundational Pilates principles—like breath, alignment, and precision—which translates beautifully into every other movement, on or off the mat.
Reformer Pilates adds variety, resistance, and support. The springs on the reformer can assist or challenge you depending on the exercise, allowing for greater range of motion, more load on larger muscle groups, and deeper core activation. The flow and movement of the carriage offers a unique advantage for stretching and to challenge stability.
Together, they complement each other by:
Building strength from the inside out (mat), while also developing muscle tone and endurance (reformer)
Improving control and body awareness (mat), and then enhancing movement range and load (reformer)
Reinforcing good technique on the mat and applying it under resistance on the reformer
Keeping your practice fresh and well-rounded, avoiding plateaus and supporting long-term progress
Practicing both gives you the best of both worlds—control, support, challenge, and variety—helping you move better, feel stronger, and see results more quickly and sustainably.
On-demand mat classes
Join my live, interactive online Mat Pilates class from the comfort of your own home. Each session is brand new every week, designed to keep your body moving, your mind focused, and your practice fresh.
Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned mover, this class offers a balanced mix of strength, stretch, and control – all with expert guidance in real time. You’ll receive feedback, encouragement, and the community vibe of a studio class, without leaving your living room.
Prefer flexibility? No problem. With my On Demand option, you can have the same weekly class sent straight to you for unlimited access for 7 days. Move when it suits you, as often as you like.
Why you’ll love it:
New class every week
-No repeats, no boredom
Live and interactive
-Personal coaching, real-time connection
Train from anywhere
-No travel, no fuss
On Demand option
-Move on your schedule, your way
Build strength, improve posture, feel amazing
Feel stronger, move better, and make Pilates a seamless part of your week – all from the comfort of your own home.
Mat FAQ's
"I decided to join Vic's Mat Pilates class at Newton Leys to help my knees, back and core strength.
The class is fun, focused and professional with demonstrations of each exercise and layering for increased difficulty. I find each class gives me a full body workout and my increased core strength over the past 6 months has also improved my golf swing!"
Glenn
Support
I am on hand to answer any questions you have -please use the form opposite to get in touch and I will get back to you within 48 hours.
