Pilates vs yoga – what are the differences and what are the similarities? It may be hard to choose which one suits you best if you don’t know the facts.
Over the years, pilates and yoga have significantly evolved with different variations available – that means there are techniques for everyone.
Pilates and yoga are both low-impact workouts that focus on using bodyweight resistance and there are multiple benefits to both. Overall, they’re beneficial to your health and help you gain a better quality of life.
What’s Pilates?
Pilates initially started off as rehabilitation for wounded soldiers at the end of World War I. Pilates aims at:
- Increasing muscle strength and endurance
- Improving flexibility and posture
- Improving balance
- Decreasing joint pain
By focusing on small movements, pilates helps to stabilize your back and core muscles. By starting each exercise with a controlled breath, you’ll be able to initiate a contraction of the core muscles. Pilates can be done on a mat or on specialized equipment which is dependent on your physical attributes.
Pilates is beneficial for those with the following conditions:
- arthritis
- urinary incontinence
- respiratory conditions
- joint injuries
- back pain
What’s Yoga?
The exact origins of yoga are unknown, however, it’s been around for at least 3,000 years. Yoga has roots in shamanism, Buddhism, and other Eastern religions and is centered around:
- proper relaxation
- exercise
- breathing
- diet
- positive thinking and meditation
Mindfulness and deep breathing are key features in a yoga practice.
In most classes, it is important to hold various poses and flow through different series of movements. Yoga can be seen as a form of mind and body fitness since it combines physical activity and mindful focus. This brings increased awareness to the breath and energy.
The benefits of yoga have been studied extensively. Yoga is also known to leave a positive impact on those who have medical issues such as:
- anxiety
- depression
- multiple sclerosis
- arthritis
- respiratory conditions
- high blood pressure
- chronic pain
- type 2 diabetes
Pilates vs Yoga: Similarities?
- Both yoga and pilates can be done with very little equipment such as a mat and a few additional props like a block or a pilates ring.
- They are considered similar since both practices focus on breathing techniques.
- Yoga and pilates require substantial flexibility and mobility of the joints, especially the spine, hips, and wrists.
- Both yoga and Pilates require mental focus which reduces stress.
Yoga and pilates are both great workouts. If you have a health condition, you may want to consult an instructor to determine what’s best for you.
Visit our gym in St. Julian’s and reach out to one of our personal trainers at Cynergi Health & Fitness Club to practise mindfulness and learn new yoga or pilates techniques! Make an appointment today to kickstart your journey with Cynergi Health & Fitness Club!
