As a Pilates Instructor, I get asked this question ALL THE TIME! And for good reason, it’s a great question!
I’ll to be honest, I didn’t know the difference between Yoga and Pilates either until I started doing Pilates regularly.
That’s why today I’m going through (very basically) how Pilates differs from Yoga and why you might want to do one over the other.
In a lot of ways, yoga and Pilates are very similar:
- They are both done on the mat
- They don’t require equipment
- They both focus on the breath
- They improve body strength, muscles endurance, flexibility, mobility and posture
So how are they different?
Yoga:
- Originated in India 3,000 B.C.
- Focuses on physical, emotional and spiritual health
- Most practices involve some sort of meditation
- Builds strength and flexibility by holding poses or postures
Pilates:
- Originated in 1920 by Joseph Pilates
- Focuses on rehabilitation by building body awareness
- Can be done on the mat or equipment like the reformer, chair and cadillac
- Builds core strength, stabilizes and elongates the spine and corrects muscle imbalances through repetitive and controlled movements
The biggest difference between Yoga and Pilates is the ultimate goal.
Yoga provides a relaxing, meditative environment that helps you relieve stress while improving your body.
Pilates works on improving the way your body looks, moves and feels by focusing on your core, body alignment, awareness and control.
Both Pilates and Yoga have their merits but the best part is you don’t have to choose! You can receive the complimentary benefits of both by adding them to your regular workout routine.
And if you’re still on the fence about trying Pilates, check out this post I wrote about 5 Reasons To Should Try Pilates Today
You can also try hundreds of Pilates, Barre and Yoga classes out online for FREE for 7 days at www.pilatesondemand.ca. They have classes for everyone – beginner to advanced, prenatal, postnatal, pelvic floor, varying class lengths and intensities and a challenge for everyone.
xoxo
