Pilates 101: Mat Pilates vs. Reformer Pilates and the Difference Between Classical, Contemporary and Lagree
Pilates is a low-impact, whole-body movement practice developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century. Originally called “Contrology”, his method was designed to strengthen the deep core, improve posture, enhance mobility, and promote a strong mind–muscle connection. Today, both Mat Pilates and Reformer Pilates share the same foundation: precise, controlled movements rooted in the belief that all healthy movement begins at the core.
So, What Is Mat Pilates?
Classical Mat Pilates follows a sequence of 34 foundational exercises performed with your own bodyweight. It focuses on:
Spinal articulation
Deep core and pelvic stability
Mind–muscle connection
Breath-led movement
Because there is no added resistance, mat work can be both simple and surprisingly demanding. It’s a beautiful place to build awareness and refine technique but leaves many clients wanting more.
More support, more feedback, and more ways to progress – cue, reformer Pilates.
Reformer Pilates and Why It’s So Popular Right Now
Reformer Pilates uses spring resistance and a sliding carriage to bring the method to life in a dynamic, deeply effective way. The springs add support when you need it and challenge when you’re ready, making the reformer uniquely accessible for beginners and endlessly progressive for seasoned movers.
Compared to mat Pilates, the reformer enhances mind-muscle connection through instant feedback so you feel every movement with clarity and understand your body faster. This produces higher quality movement, allowing you to work through a greater range of motion while remaining low-impact on the joints. This results in faster muscle development and the adjustable resistance of the springs ensures you won’t plateau.
Whether classical or contemporary in style, reformer Pilates offers a full body practice that adapts to your needs for results that translate beyond the studio. And that’s exactly why it’s having a moment…and why the moment is here to stay.
Classical vs. Contemporary Pilates
Classical Pilates stays true to Joseph Pilates' original sequence, structure and principles – clean, efficient, and powerful in its simplicity.
Contemporary Pilates incorporates modern exercise science, mindful variations, and intelligent progressions, guiding the practice into a more adaptable and athletic space.
At Fortides, we honour both. Our classes are rooted in classical foundations, elevated with contemporary nuance, and deliver a more athletic and progressive approach. We move with purpose to create a flowing, full-body workout that thoughtfully transitions from one movement to the next.
What About Lagree?
Lagree is often mentioned in the same breath as Pilates, but the experience and intention are different. Lagree uses the Megaformer for slow-tempo, high-intensity blocks that focus heavily on muscular endurance.
While both methods use spring resistance and a moving carriage, their philosophies diverge:
Lagree: intensity, burn, fatigue
Pilates: precision, alignment, functional mobility, balanced strength
Both have value, but the feeling, pacing, and long-term relationship with your body can be profoundly different. Lagree can feel repetitive as it is often the same type of circuit within the Lagree program whereas Pilates goes into a lot more depth and variety of movement.
Reformer Pilates Equipment at Fortides
There are many different types of Pilates machines—including the Reformer, Cadillac, Chair, and Megaformer. At Fortides, we use the Merrithew V2 Max Reformer, known for its smooth carriage, adjustable springs, and versatility for classical and contemporary styles. While the Reformer and Megaformer may look similar, they serve different training philosophies and create distinct movement experiences.
Which type of Pilates is right for me?
We celebrate any form of movement. Which type of Pilates is better for you truly depends on your goals, experience, and unique body. If you’re looking for a low-impact practice that builds strength, improves mobility, and enhances mind-muscle connection, Fortides is the place for you.
Start your movement journey today.