Pilates vs Yoga
Many people would place pilates and yoga in the same fitness category, which wouldn’t be entirely incorrect as they are similar. There are, however, some major differences to be aware of when choosing which one is right for you.
Here are five of the main differences to help you decide:
Origin
Pilates began in the mid-20th century. Joseph Pilates created the practice of pilates as a form of strengthening and rehabilitation. The elements of dance involved in pilates has helped its popularity across the world.
Originating from India, Yoga dates back over 5,000 years. Over time, the practice of yoga has evolved as different cultures have formed different types, including Ashtanga, Bikram, Kripalu and Vineyasa.
Breathing
Breathing is an important aspect of both pilates and yoga. In pilates, the focus is on inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth.
Breathing in yoga is a more in-depth technique. In some yoga exercises participants breathe both in and out through the nose, matching the movements and postures with deep breaths. Some yoga workouts have specific segments, called pranayama, dedicated to breathing.
Mind, Body & Spirit
Both pilates and yoga have elements of connecting mind and body. The focus during pilates is understanding the connection between mind and body, and how this can help with everyday life.
Yoga, on the other hand, includes spirituality as well as mind and body. One of the ways to explore spirituality during yoga is through meditation.
Classes
Each class, whether it’s pilates or yoga, will be different. But there are a couple of overall differences:
Pilates classes are fairly structured, compared to yoga. Once you’ve been to one pilates class, you are likely to know what to expect when you turn up at future classes.
The structure of a yoga class will largely depend on the type of yoga you opt for. All will be a combination of postures and sequences, and some will involve meditation or even chants.
Workouts
Both pilates and yoga workouts work on gaining flexibility and strength. A pilates workout is a total body workout that focuses on spinal alignment and core strengthening. Workouts tend to be on a floor mat using your body’s resistance to achieve results. Occasionally machines and weights will be used to build strength.
A yoga workout works equally on each muscle in your body. Every posture is followed by a counter-posture to help create balance within your body. Core strength is covered with a yoga workout, but unlike pilates, it is not a key focus.
If you’re a fitness fanatic, keen to learn more about types of fitness and a variety of workouts then sign up to a personal trainer course.
Premier Training has been providing fitness qualifications for more than twenty years, and also offers courses such as a Diploma in Specialist Exercise (for Low Back Pain) and Total Group Instructor Training.
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