Pilates vs Yoga: Both are sports that can only benefit you. Although many people consider them similar, there are some important differences. But both Pilates and yoga are now valued for their numerous benefits, ranging from connecting with the body and relieving stress to developing flexibility, strength, control and endurance.
Pilates vs Yoga: Which is Best for You?
Pilates and yoga have evolved significantly in recent years. The different variations offered in studios around the world have something to offer for almost everyone. But since they offer similar training, how do you decide which one is better?
What is Pilates?
The story of Pilates begins with a sickly child named Joseph Pilates, who was born in Germany. He wanted to improve his health by studying yoga, martial arts and other disciplines involving the body and mind. During the First War, Pilates was actually used to rehabilitate wounded soldiers. Pilates brought his method to the United States in 1923 and spent years refining his approach.
The goal of Pilates is to develop muscles evenly by focusing heavily on core strength and stability. This includes slow, precise strength exercises with controlled breathing.
Pilates focuses on small movements.The Pilates exercisesrequire core stabilization before performing a series of movements. The emphasis is on beginning each exercise with controlled breathing that triggers a contraction of the core muscles.
The main benefits of Pilates are:
- Improve flexibility and posture
- Relief from lower back pain
- Increasing muscle strength and endurance
- A better balance
What is yoga?
Yoga is an ancient, spiritual practice that originated in India over 5,000 years ago. Its goal is to unite the mind, body and soul. Yoga is considered a therapeutic activity if you use the techniques correctly. It can be a way to heal the body and find spiritual harmony. It promotes body awareness, strength, balance, flexibility and mobility.
Maybe you are familiar with the different yoga exercises (asanas). Various movements are performed on an exercise mat, using your own body weight as resistance for the exercise.
The main benefits of yoga are:
- Relief from lower back and neck pain
- Increased flexibility and mobility
- Improving balance
- Increase in strength and endurance
- Improved breathing
- Reduction of stress and anxiety
What are the similarities between Pilates and yoga?
Yoga and Pilates are similar in that they both focus on proper breathing, are low impact and intensity, and are suitable for all bodies. Both yoga and Pilates can be done with minimal equipment. All you need is a mat and the time to concentrate on the exercises.
Both require mental focus and can help reduce stress. They are often recommended by doctors and sports therapists to support rehabilitation after injuries and as a supplement to various high-impact sports.
Pilates vs Yoga: The most important differences
Both Pilates andYoga is gentle exercises, which can be done on a mat, but they are completely different workouts.
Pilates tends to be a little more fast-paced than yoga. So choose Pilates if you want to specifically build more strength and muscular endurance, especially in the middle of your body.
Breathwork is important in both, but is used in different ways. In Pilates, the core of the body is tensed when exhaling; in yoga, the opposite is practiced.
There is a greater variety of styles in yoga than in Pilates. The most common yoga styles are Vinyasa, Hatha, Bikram and Yin Yoga, which differ in their different courses and speeds. With this large selection there is something for everyone. No matter the intensity, a good yoga class will leave your mind feeling relaxed and your body feeling loose and supple.
What should you choose?
It's hard to say whether Pilates or yoga is better for you. Both yoga and Pilates are great, low-impact exercises to incorporate into your workout days. Depending on your goals and previous injuries, one may be better for you than the other, so determine your goals first.
If you want to improve your strength and flexibility, Pilates may be a better choice. If you want to improve your overall well-being, you should choose yoga.
Ultimately, the easiest way to decide whether Pilates or yoga is best for you is to try both. Take one class at a time and you will decide for yourself which one better suits your own needs and abilities.
The hardest part is the beginning. Once you get on the mat and start moving, everything else is just a bonus.
