Mat vs. Reformer vs. Comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training: Which Should You Choose?
If you want to become a Pilates instructor, this is usually the first big question: Should you start with a Mat certification, learn Reformer next, or go straight into comprehensive training?
The short answer is that Mat is the foundation of Pilates, but if you are serious about teaching Pilates as a career, we recommend comprehensive training from the beginning.
That does not mean Reformer is better than Mat, because it’s not. Mat work teaches you how bodies move without spring tension, straps, or equipment mechanics helping along the way. But a Mat-only certification can limit your job opportunities, and many trainees end up adding Reformer and comprehensive training later anyway. Let’s talk about the differences, and where it makes sense for you to start.
What is Mat Pilates teacher training?
Mat Pilates teacher training focuses on the original Pilates exercises done without equipment (Think Reformer, Chair, Tower, etc). You learn how to teach movement using body weight, small props, cueing, progressions, and modifications.
Mat is the foundation of the whole Pilates system. Joseph Pilates himself originally created the Mat sequence, then equipment like the Reformer came along later. Mat helps you understand what an exercise should feel like before equipment enters the picture.
At The LAB, we teach Mat before moving to Reformer or other apparatus, even in our comprehensive training. When you can see and understand a movement on the Mat, it’s much easier to explain how the Reformer, Chair, Cadillac, or other equipment can support it.
For example, Reformer work can help someone build strength and confidence for a more challenging Mat movement. The springs give support and feedback, while the Mat asks your body to support itself.
Is Mat Pilates harder than Reformer Pilates?
Sometimes, yes. Mat Pilates can be physically challenging because there is no equipment to assist or guide you.
On the Reformer, springs can provide resistance, but they can also provide support. The carriage gives feedback. Straps can help a client find a position. That does not make Reformer Pilates easy!! It’s just a different way to achieve similar positions and movements.
In a Mat class, the teacher has to be especially good at layering progressions. Some clients need the foundations, while others are ready for a more advanced version of the same exercise. In a larger Mat class, there is also less time for hands-on attention and individual correction.
Sometimes we hear clients say that Mat Pilates just gives them a sore back. A great Mat teacher can make class feel challenging, clear, and fun for everyone in the room. It takes skill!
What is Reformer Pilates teacher training?
Reformer teacher training teaches you how to use the Reformer safely and effectively, including spring settings, footwork, straps, transitions, modifications, and programming.
A Reformer certification can be a good choice if you know you want to teach at a studio that only offers Reformer classes. It gives you a more direct path into that specific format.
But Reformer-only training still has limits. Many studios use more than one piece of equipment, and a teacher who understands the whole system has more ways to help clients progress. You can see the relationship between Mat and Reformer work, then use the Tower, Chair, Barrel, or Magic Circle when it makes sense for that particular person.
What does comprehensive Pilates teacher training include?
Comprehensive Pilates teacher training covers the full Pilates repertoire across Mat and the major apparatus. A comprehensive program should include Mat, Reformer, Cadillac or Trapeze Table, Chair, Ladder Barrel, Spine Corrector, and Magic Circle.
The National Pilates Certification Program requires a minimum of 450 hours of comprehensive education for eligibility for its comprehensive certification exam. At The LAB, our program is 500 hours and includes six in-person training weekends, observation, self-practice, practice teaching, written assessments, practical exams, anatomy, and class planning.
Comprehensive training gives you the biggest foundation and the most flexibility as a teacher.
You learn Mat first, then build on it with the Reformer and the rest of the apparatus.
Should you get Mat certification before Reformer certification?
Not necessarily. If you are planning to become a comprehensive teacher, you do not need to complete a separate Mat certification first.
A good comprehensive program will teach Mat first because it is foundational, then move you into Reformer and equipment work in a sequence that makes sense.
Starting with Mat-only can make sense if you are still figuring out whether teaching is for you, or if you want to deepen your own Pilates knowledge without pursuing a full teaching career.
It can also be a good fit if you love teaching hybrid classes that combine Pilates with barre, yoga, or other movement styles. Just know that many Mat positions are not traditional Pilates Mat classes. They may be a mix of several formats, which may or may not be what you want to teach.
When does Mat-only Pilates certification make sense?
Mat-only training can be a great choice when your goal is specific.
It may be right for you if:
You want a deeper understanding of Pilates for your own practice.
You plan to teach occasionally, not build a full-time Pilates career.
You enjoy teaching hybrid Mat-based classes.
You cannot commit to comprehensive training right now because of time, cost, or location.
A Mat certification is still meaningful education. It’s not a shortcut and it’s not less valuable, it simply narrows your career path.
Which Pilates certification gives you the most job opportunities?
Comprehensive Pilates certification generally gives you the most options because you can teach across the full system, which is what most boutique or independent Pilates studios are looking for. Comprehensive training also gives you a stronger understanding of how the apparatus supports the Mat work, which makes you a more adaptable teacher if you do want to teach Mat.
If you are looking at teaching Pilates professionally in Chicago or beyond, it is worth thinking about where you want to be in two years, not just what feels easiest to begin this month.
In conclusion
Start with Mat as part of your education, but if you are serious about Pilates teaching as a career, go comprehensive from the beginning.
You will learn the Mat work first anyway. You will understand Reformer work more deeply because of it. And you will finish with more tools, more confidence, and more opportunities to teach the kind of Pilates you want to teach.
Ready to explore comprehensive Pilates teacher training in Chicago? Learn more about The LAB’s 500-hour program or reach out to Holly or Jacquelyn.