Pilates vs. Yoga
Pilates is gaining in popularity alongside yoga exercise. Although Pilates is considered a physical activity, its not considered a cardiovascular workout. Pilates and yoga share the same techniques to develop, tone and strengthen the muscles of the entire body - such as the arms, legs, abdomen and back - by using the bodys own resistance to build power during movement. Compared to yoga postures, Pilates poses are strikingly similar, yet there are some profound differences.- Yoga is an ancient practice that was originally practiced in Northern India over 5,000 years ago. Pilates was inspired by the ancient yoga asanas about 80-years ago by Joseph Pilates, a German athlete
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- The Pilates method is a complicated system of effective but gentle, whole-body conditioning and corrective exercises. It was first practiced by dancers and gained mass attention in recent years because of its largely aesthetic body sculpting effects. Yoga is a lifestyle, rather then simply an exercise. Its known as the path to both physical and mental well-being. It includes everything from physical postures and healthy diet to breathing, relaxation and meditation skills.
- Pilates mainly concentrates on cultivating core strength in the body and lengthening the spine. Also, Pilates is a valuable tool for increasing strength, definition and proper posture. Yoga aims to work the body equally and unite the body with mind and spirit. Yoga is often considered therapeutic, when compared to Pilates, as it helps people find harmony and release stress.
- Breathing and concentration are fundamental to both practices; however yoga employs breath on a deeper level. The slight difference between them is that Pilates instructs one to inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth; while in yoga, one is taught to inhale and exhale through the nose only.
- Yoga has many different styles, but all are generally performed in a group setting on a yoga mat with the aid of a yoga instructor. Pilates has a full complement of mat work, but it also incorporates work on Pilates machines which help build a longer, leaner, dancer-like physique.
- Cotton fitted clothing is recommended for both Pilates and yoga practitioners. Pilates method doesnt rely as much on extra props - such as blocks, straps, blankets, etc. - as yoga does.
