Top 10 Mat Pilates Core Moves

When people think of Pilates, they often picture the Reformer Machine. But the truth is, you don’t always need equipment to build strength. Mat Pilates can deliver just as much fire for your core while keeping things simple and accessible.

If you’re looking to boost core stability, improve posture, and build functional strength, these ten mat Pilates moves will get you there. No excuses, no fuss, just you and your mat.

1. The Hundred

This classic is a Pilates staple. Lie on your back, legs lifted at 45 degrees, arms pumping up and down as you breathe in for five counts and out for five counts. Aim for ten rounds to reach 100 breaths.

Why it works: It wakes up your entire core and gets your blood flowing.

2. Single Leg Stretch

Lie on your back, lift your head and shoulders, then alternate pulling one knee into your chest while extending the other leg out.

Why it works: Challenges coordination and strengthens deep abdominal muscles.

3. Double Leg Stretch

Same setup as single leg stretch, but extend both legs out together while reaching your arms overhead. Circle the arms back as you draw knees in.

Why it works: Combines strength, control, and flexibility.

4. Criss-Cross

Think of it as Pilates’ answer to the bicycle crunch. Rotate through your torso as you bring opposite elbow to knee, extending the other leg long.

Why it works: Fires up your obliques for that rotational strength.

5. Rolling Like a Ball

Sit tall, grab your shins, and balance just behind your sit bones. Roll back onto your shoulder blades, then roll forward again without letting your feet touch the floor.

Why it works: Improves spinal mobility and strengthens your abs.

6. Leg Pull Front

Start in a plank, lift one leg at a time without dropping your hips. Keep your core tight and controlled.

Why it works: Builds upper body stability while demanding core control.

7. Teaser

Lie on your back with arms overhead. Lift your legs to a 45-degree angle and roll up into a V-sit, reaching hands toward your toes.

Why it works: A true test of strength, balance, and control.

8. Side Plank with Leg Lift

Set up in a side plank and slowly lift your top leg. Keep your hips high and strong.

Why it works: Hits the obliques and challenges lateral stability.

9. Swan Prep

Lie face down, hands under shoulders. Lift your chest off the mat, keeping shoulders away from ears.

Why it works: Opens the chest, strengthens the back, and balances out core training.

10. Seal

Sit with soles of feet together, slide hands through legs and hold ankles. Roll back like “Rolling Like a Ball,” then clap your feet before rolling forward.

Why it works: Adds playfulness while improving control and mobility.

Why Pair Mat Pilates with a Reformer Machine

Mat Pilates is powerful on its own, but combining it with Reformer Machine workouts takes your strength to the next level. The Reformer adds resistance, variety, and progression that keeps your body challenged. Whether at home or in a studio, using both ensures you’re building a well-rounded practice.

At FitBoutique, we design premium Reformer Machines like the Ivory Fold Reformer, Onyx Reformer, and Onyx Fold Reformer to fit seamlessly into your lifestyle. Whether you’re starting small on the mat or levelling up with equipment, consistency is what transforms your core.

Final Thoughts

Core strength isn’t just about aesthetics. It’s about moving better, preventing injuries, and feeling strong in your daily life. These top ten mat Pilates core moves give you the foundation, while the Reformer Machine helps you expand beyond it.

Ready to bring studio-quality training into your home? Explore our Reformer Machine collection at FitBoutique or reach out to us via our contact page.