Within the past few years both yoga and Pilates have become a huge craze. Almost every gym has a yoga or Pilates class offered, or both. Many people know a little about each one but don't fully understand their similarities and differences as well as which would be best for them.
Many yoga instructors consider yoga more than just a workout. There is a spiritual or therapeutic aspect to it. It is meant to integrate the body and the mind together. It focuses on posture, flexibility and alignment of the body to promote health and healing. Besides being a great way to exercise, many people choose yoga simply as a de-stressor. Yoga can be done alone but many choose to take a class with a yoga instructor and the use of a yoga mat. There are many yoga styles and poses but all forms use only the body for resistance.
Pilates uses a lot of the same techniques as yoga, including body resistance, emphasis on flexibility and controlled movements. Where Pilates differs is with the use of Pilates machines, in conjunction with mat work. Just like with yoga, Pilates can be done alone, and Pilates machines can even be purchased for home use. But many choose a class format with a Pilates instruct who guides participants in abdominal work and emphasizing strength, posture and balance. Pilates can also be a great way to rehabilitate certain injuries with minimal impact.
Some choose to use both yoga and Pilates in conjunction with one another. There are certainly enough similarities in the techniques and principles that both can be combined for an extremely effective work out. Yoga instructors can help build your flexibility and Pilates instructors can help you keep and enhance it. Whether combined or separate both are excellent, stress reducing fitness techniques.
Many yoga instructors consider yoga more than just a workout. There is a spiritual or therapeutic aspect to it. It is meant to integrate the body and the mind together. It focuses on posture, flexibility and alignment of the body to promote health and healing. Besides being a great way to exercise, many people choose yoga simply as a de-stressor. Yoga can be done alone but many choose to take a class with a yoga instructor and the use of a yoga mat. There are many yoga styles and poses but all forms use only the body for resistance.
Pilates uses a lot of the same techniques as yoga, including body resistance, emphasis on flexibility and controlled movements. Where Pilates differs is with the use of Pilates machines, in conjunction with mat work. Just like with yoga, Pilates can be done alone, and Pilates machines can even be purchased for home use. But many choose a class format with a Pilates instruct who guides participants in abdominal work and emphasizing strength, posture and balance. Pilates can also be a great way to rehabilitate certain injuries with minimal impact.
Some choose to use both yoga and Pilates in conjunction with one another. There are certainly enough similarities in the techniques and principles that both can be combined for an extremely effective work out. Yoga instructors can help build your flexibility and Pilates instructors can help you keep and enhance it. Whether combined or separate both are excellent, stress reducing fitness techniques.
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