If you’re feeling like you need to have tons of equipment or expensive machines just to experience the Pilates method… you’re in luck. The original Mat Pilates method was actually designed primarily to use your own body weight for resistance.
Reformers (the machines) were designed for rehabilitation. When on the reformer, resistance can be controlled by the springs to allow your practice to progress while still keeping pressure within the bounds of a healing body. Mat work on the other hand is used to create a foundation of strength using your own body weight against gravity.
In Mat work, some small props are used to enhance movements and feel the muscle connection differently. Some of these props include the magic circle, resistance bands, rollers, or pilates ball.
Pilates as a method is much more accessible than you think. The important message is that Pilates can be translated from zero equipment all the way up to the high end expensive machines. Although the equipment can be fun and useful. The most useful tool is yourself.
