Mat vs Reformer: Which Pilates Teacher Training Should You Do First?
(Spoiler: it depends—but we’re here to help you figure it out.)
So you’re thinking about becoming a Pilates instructor. You’ve fallen in love with the practice, maybe you’ve had a few lightbulb moments on the mat or the Reformer, and now you're wondering what the next step looks like.
But then... you hit the big question:
Should you start with Mat Pilates or take the new path and go straight into Reformer training?
Let’s break it down clearly and honestly, because the answer isn’t black-and-white, and the industry is changing it’s traditional path to certification as demand for Reformer instructors grows. Ultimately, it’s about what you want to do with your training—and where you want to teach.
What Is Mat Pilates Training?
Mat Pilates training is exactly what it sounds like—teaching the original Pilates repertoire on the mat, using your bodyweight (plus maybe some small props like balls, bands, or rings).
It’s where Pilates began. It’s also where most instructors begin their careers.
Mat training teaches you:
Core foundations of Pilates principles
How to cue, sequence, and modify exercises
Anatomy and body mechanics
Confidence in your voice and teaching presence
Think of it like your Pilates passport. It gets you fluent in the language of Pilates movement—and gives you skills you’ll use in every single class, no matter the equipment.
What About Reformer Training?
Reformer Pilates is incredibly popular right now, especially in group formats—which is exactly what we specialise in at Move Union. It’s used in boutique studios and gym chains all over the world and almost all the largest Pilates training providers are opening up specialist group reformer training programs. Some of which will require a mat certification first, and others will not.
Our Reformer training focuses on:
Teaching group reformer classes with impact
Creating dynamic, results-driven sessions, while staying true to Pilates principles and history
Real-world studio confidence (not just passing a test)
Understanding how to adjust and modify with confidence, even with multiple bodies in front of you.
Catering to all levels in a thoughtful, safe and intelligent manner
You don’t need a Mat qualification to do our Reformer training. If you come from a fitness or movement background (like barre, dance, personal training, or yoga), you can jump straight into Reformer. But that said…
Taking Both Makes You a Better Instructor
While it’s absolutely possible to specialise straight away in Reformer, having both certifications does a few powerful things:
It gives you a deeper understanding of the full Pilates system
It builds versatility, so you can work across more studios and class formats
It strengthens your cueing and creativity—you’ll understand how movements connect across apparatus
It’s the more accepted route to certification within the industry
So while it’s not the only path, it’s a respected and strategic one—especially if you’re building a long-term career in Pilates.
So Which Should You Do First?
Here’s our honest take:
Do Mat first if:
You’re totally new to teaching or group fitness
You want a solid foundation before adding equipment
You plan to teach a wide range of classes (including mat-only) or in studios that offer both
You’re unsure about your teaching style and want to explore
Go straight to Reformer if:
You only want to teach on the Reformer
You have a background in movement or fitness
You’ve taken lots of Reformer classes and feel confident on the apparatus
You want to work in studios that only offer Reformer group classes
Final Thoughts: Choose Your Path (with Support)
Whether you start with Mat, Reformer, or both, the most important thing is that your training supports your goals, your lifestyle, and your teaching dreams.
We’re here to help you figure that out—without overwhelm, sales pressure or industry jargon. Talk it through with a human by booking a call with us today.
