Mat or Equipment? What You Actually Need for Each On-Demand Pilates Class

One of the most common questions before trying an on-demand class is simple: what do I actually need to follow along? Here's a straight answer for each type of class on the site.

Mat classes: minimal, and often nothing extra

For on-demand mat classes, you need a mat (a yoga mat, Pilates mat, or even a folded towel works) and a space to move in. Some classes use small props like a foam roller, light weights, or a cushion, but many need nothing beyond the mat itself. This is genuinely the lowest-barrier way to try Pilates at home.

Reformer, cadillac, spine corrector, and wunda chair: you'll need the actual equipment

Being upfront here matters: on-demand equipment classes are filmed on, and designed for, real studio equipment: a reformer, cadillac, spine corrector, or wunda chair. These aren't classes you can substitute with household items; the resistance, support, and range of motion the equipment provides is unique to the Pilates apparatus. If you don't have access to this equipment, your own, or at a local studio or gym, these classes won't translate the way they're meant to.

So which should you choose?

If you don't currently have access to any Pilates equipment, start with mat classes — they're a complete, effective practice on their own, not a lesser substitute for equipment work. If you do have access to equipment, whether through your own home setup or a local studio, the on-demand equipment classes let you get guided, structured sessions on apparatus you might otherwise not know how to use to its full potential.

Either way, you can browse the full catalogue and filter by what you have available, no guessing required. Start here.