Tried Yoga? Tempted by Reformer Pilates? Here’s What Midlife Bodies Actually Need.

No springs required...

Let’s get one thing straight: mat Pilates is not just lying on the floor having a gentle stretch. It’s not passive. It’s not boring. And it’s definitely not just for the flexible few.

If you’ve tried yoga, love the mindful movement and breathwork, but crave something that builds real, functional strength without hammering your joints - welcome to your new best friend. Mat Pilates is the unsung hero for midlife women who want to feel strong, supported and energised, not just stretched.

Mat Pilates vs Reformer: What's the deal?

Yes, Reformer Pilates has that sleek, sexy, studio aesthetic. You get to pull straps, push springs, and slide your way through a workout that looks cool on Instagram. It can feel amazing, supportive, assisted, even a little luxurious as you glide through the moves. And for some, it really works.

But here’s the truth: it can also be too much. Too intense, too easy to overdo. You’re dealing with resistance, springs and complex movement patterns that, without absolute control and awareness, can tip you over the edge.

Even with decades of movement experience, I tried Reformer during my teacher training and found that old injuries and niggles came roaring back. It was simply too easy to push too far. And if I’m feeling that? Imagine how it feels if you’re new to movement, in the thick of menopause, or managing chronic fatigue or joint pain.

Mat-based Pilates gives you all the benefits - deep core engagement, postural power, full-body control - with nothing but your own bodyweight (and maybe a squishy ball or band for spice). It’s powerful, safe, and adaptable. No machines, no mirrors, no overwhelm.

Why mat Pilates hits different in midlife

When you’re navigating the glorious chaos of midlife (hot flushes, mood swings, aching joints, fatigue, the works), you need movement that meets you where you are but also lifts you up. Mat Pilates does exactly that.

• Low impact, high reward: It’s joint-friendly but still builds strength

• Core strength without crunches: Say goodbye to sore necks and hello to deep core control

• Helps with hormone havoc: Breath-led movement helps regulate stress and support your nervous system

• Builds functional strength: So you can run up the stairs without groaning, lift your suitcase like a boss, or throw shapes at 80s Night without pulling a muscle

  
  

Yoga is lovely but Pilates brings the power

Yes, there are many forms of yoga (from yin to power, restorative to vinyasa). And for some, it’s a beautiful practice. But let’s be real: not everyone wants to tie themselves in knots or chant their way through a sun salutation. And you definitely don’t need to be super bendy or spiritual to get strong.

Pilates is different. It’s accessible. It’s inclusive. And it meets you exactly where you are. You don’t need to twist yourself into a pretzel. You don’t need to balance on one foot while breathing through your eyelids. You just need a mat, a body, and the willingness to move.

And no, it doesn’t need to be hot either. (Let’s be honest, who needs heated studios when you’re already dealing with flushes that could boil a kettle?)

Pilates doesn’t just lengthen; it strengthens. It targets the glutes, hips, core, and back - all areas that tend to weaken in perimenopause and beyond.

Why mat Pilates makes everything else better

Think of mat Pilates as your body’s secret support act. Whether you’re into yoga, walking, running, lifting weights, or just want to feel steadier on your feet - Pilates makes it all easier.

By focusing on core control, spinal alignment, breath and balance, mat work builds a foundation that carries over into every other type of movement. You move better, with more awareness. You feel stronger and more stable. And you recover faster because you’re training smart, not just hard.

It’s not either/or. Pilates doesn’t replace the things you love, it supports them. It keeps you doing the things that light you up, with less pain, fewer injuries, and more confidence.

The Pausa difference

At Pausa, we make mat Pilates feel like a celebration, not a punishment. No mirrors. No pressure. Just great music, uplifting energy, and strong women moving together. Whether you’re new to Pilates or coming back after a break, our classes are built to boost your mood and strengthen your whole body - not wear you out (ok maybe a little bit).

Ready to feel the power of the mat?

Come and try a Pausa class. You’ll work muscles you didn’t know you had, laugh more than you thought you would, and leave feeling stronger, taller, and totally lifted.

Because this isn’t just stretching. This is your midlife strength, redefined.