Your Guide to Choosing the Right Pilates Class

What’s the difference between Mat, Reformer, Cadillac or Studio Sessions?

When people first find us at EQ Pilates, one of the most common questions they ask is: “Which class should I start with?” And with so many options — Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, and Studio Sessions — we get it. It can feel overwhelming at first glance.

But here’s the good news: there’s no wrong place to start. Each type of session we offer is grounded in Joseph Pilates’ original method and designed to meet your body where it is — whether you’re brand new to movement, coming back after injury, or an athlete looking to gain an edge.

In this post, we’ll walk you through the difference between each class and help you decide what might be the best fit for you.

Mat Classes – The Foundation of It All

Mat Pilates is where it all began. It’s you, your body, gravity, and a mat — nothing more, nothing less.

Don’t be fooled by the simplicity: Mat work is deeply challenging. It teaches control, focus, and strength without any external support. This is where you build the foundations that carry through to everything else we teach.

Mat is ideal if you:

• Want to build deep core strength

• Prefer a minimal, no-fuss setup

• Enjoy the structure and flow of a group class

• Like the idea of something you can practice anywhere

Many of our long-term clients started on the mat — and some never left. That’s how powerful it is.

Reformer Classes – Strength, Stretch, and Precision

The Reformer is one of the most iconic pieces of Pilates equipment. With its sliding carriage, adjustable springs, footbar, and straps, it offers resistance and support that challenge your body in just the right way.

Reformer work is dynamic and flowing. You’ll stretch, strengthen, and stabilise — all while lying down, kneeling, or standing on the moving carriage.

Reformer is ideal if you:

• Like resistance training with low impact

• Want to tone, align, and feel your muscles fire up

• Appreciate clear structure and pace in a class

• Need spring assistance to support your joints or movement

It’s one of our most popular class types — and once you try it, you’ll understand why.

Cadillac Classes – Supportive, Suspended, and Seriously Effective

Think of the Cadillac as the Swiss Army knife of Pilates equipment. With its tower frame, springs, bars, and straps, it allows for incredibly targeted, supported movement — from gentle rehab to acrobatic-level strength.

The Cadillac helps you access control and stretch in ways that can feel impossible on the mat. It’s also a powerful teaching tool for those working with injury, mobility limitations, or simply wanting to deepen their connection to their body.

Cadillac is ideal if you:

• Are recovering from injury or need extra support

• Want to build deep, precise strength in a safe way

• Like working more slowly and mindfully

• Are curious about Joseph Pilates’ original apparatus

Many people fall in love with the Cadillac for how it makes movement feel both grounded and elevated at the same time.

Studio Sessions – Personalised Practice with the Full Pilates System

Studio Sessions are where the full power of the Pilates method comes to life. These aren’t group classes — they’re individualised sessions using a range of apparatus: Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Spine Corrector, and more.

You’ll work on a tailored program designed for your body, goals, injuries, and strengths. No choreography, no following the crowd — just you, your teacher, and the method.

Studio Sessions are ideal if you:

• Want one-on-one guidance and a personalised program

• Are managing injury, illness, or complex movement patterns

• Are ready to dive into the classical system more deeply

• Want the closest experience to what Joseph Pilates offered in his original New York studio

If you’re serious about transforming how your body feels and functions, this is the place to be.

So… Which One’s Right for You?

There’s no single “best” place to start — just the right one for you. Here’s a quick guide:

• Choose Mat if you want strong foundations, core strength, and something you can practice anywhere.

• Choose Reformer if you like dynamic, full-body workouts with support and resistance.

• Choose Cadillac if you want precision, support, and access to movement that might otherwise feel out of reach.

• Choose Studio Sessions if you’re after a tailored, in-depth experience using the full classical system.

Still not sure? We’re always happy to chat. Our team can help guide you to the right starting point based on your goals, experience, and any physical considerations.

Ready to Move?

Whether you're looking to reconnect with your body, recover from an injury, or finally find a movement practice you enjoy — we’re here for it.

Get in touch to find out more about how we can support you.

At EQ Pilates, we believe Pilates isn’t about perfection — it’s about progression, connection, and feeling good in your own skin. Let’s find the right path for you.