Which Is Better: Mat or Equipment?

Which is better? Joseph Pilates designed both, so neither is better, they are complementary -- and Mat is one of the Pilates apparatus. The next question is usually, "Equipment is more difficult, right?" Not necessarily...

Hanging Pull-Ups (Cadillac)
Plank position

Joseph Pilates designed his exercises for the Mat. In working with clients, he used his body to create resistance to help them learn exercises and gain strength. He then designed equipment using springs, pulleys, barrels, to create resistance. All exercises are related, and all exercises relate back to the original Mat exercises. While it may seem like the equipment exercises are more difficult, the spring tension and moving parts provide resistance and assistance that benefit clients.

Why use Pilates equipment? It can help clients gain strength and understanding of certain exercises, by using the spring tension as resistance. It is more obvious to clients when they are doing an exercise incorrectly or not using proper 
technique. For those clients who are easily bored with workouts, it can provide sufficient variation to keep them engaged while they are mastering the principles. 

Push-Ups (Mat)
Plank Position

Then why bother with Mat? Mat uses clients' body weight and gravity -- there is nothing to hold onto, nothing to guide -- so strength, balance, proper form and technique are essential. It is simpler, as all the exercises can be done at home, while travelling, and outdoors. 

Oftentimes, the choice comes down to budget, scheduling, opportunity, and personal likes/dislikes. Mat is the essential Pilates apparatus, Mat exercises are the goal, and Pilates equipment can be a means of arriving there more successfully for some clients.