Ep. 59: Is There a Best Way to Do Pilates--Mat or Reformer?

Modern Body: Pilates & Movement for Life

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18d ago 33:43

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Ever feel torn between rolling out your mat or jumping into a reformer class? In this episode, Aly DiRoma unpacks one of the questions she’s most commonly asked: Should I do mat or reformer classes? Instead of drawing a line in the sand, Aly invites us to explore the strengths of each approach and encourages a “both/and” mindset when it comes to building a well-rounded movement practice.

With a teacher’s clarity and a practitioner’s heart, Aly breaks down the nuances of resistance, support, feedback, and adaptability across both modalities. Whether it’s the spring-assisted lift of the reformer or the pure bodyweight grit of mat work, you’ll come away with a fresh perspective on how each serves the body differently—and powerfully.

“The reformer isn’t a magic machine that fixes everything—and the mat isn’t a second-tier substitute. They’re both tools. They both matter.”

Through real-world examples—like how body positioning affects muscle engagement or how nervous system regulation plays into balance and proprioception—Aly shows how both platforms offer unique pathways to strength, awareness, and longevity. She also shares her own evolution with both styles, including why she often weaves mat work into reformer classes.

So, which is better? That’s not the question. The real magic lies in discovering what your body needs today—and knowing you don’t have to pick a side.

In this episode, you'll learn:

Why resistance on the reformer can be both challenge and support
How mat work develops proprioception and long-term mobility
When the reformer’s adaptability can better serve post-rehab or joint sensitivity
The overlooked accessibility of mat work—and how it mimics real-life movement

Why doing both can make your practice more resilient, balanced, and sustainable.

Curious to experience both? Try a Reformer-on-the-Mat class inside Modern Body Studio—using props like towels, bands, and light weights to simulate reformer exercises from home. Your first 7 days are free. You'll get a week of unlimited movement inside Modern Body Studio. You’ll find 300+ Pilates-inspired classes tailored for every season of life. modernbody.uscreen.io

Want a deeper dive? The Modern Mover’s Guide is your personal roadmap to moving well through every season of life.. It's the perfect companion on your Modern Mover journey and will illuminate the magic behind the Modern Body Method. https://modernmoversguide.com/guide

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