Yoga or Pilates appear to have many similarities and deliver the same health benefits to the body. These forms of exercise are usually considered in the same category among other fitness practices, but there are also many differences to these workouts than one might realize.
In some cases, fitness enthusiasts do both yoga and Pilates, which might seem redundant. So, how can you determine which workout is better for you? Below are some key points to understanding the differences between yoga and Pilates.
Origin
Yoga's origin goes back to thousands of years and was first practiced by Vedic priests in India. But over centuries, it has evolved into different forms, among this include Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Kundalini and hybrid yoga routines.
In contrast, Pilates was developed before the 1920s by Joseph Hubert Pilates as a way to rehabilitate and strengthen the body during the war. Eventually, dancers adopted variations of the workout to improve their stamina during performance, but the style remains generally the same.
Concept
Although both fitness routines are practiced with the idea of improving the body's core and breathing exercises are incorporated in properly performing the moves, yoga derives from spiritual concepts more and connects the achievement of inner peace to physical healing. Learning to quiet the mind is essential.
“Exploring meditation is a huge part of yoga practice. While Pilates focuses on creating an understanding that the mind and body are connected and how this can help in everyday life, yoga focuses on the mind/body/spirit connection," Chris James, a yoga master, said.
Classes
Pilates classes are more structured than yoga classes and the routines are required to be performed with rigid discipline and regularity to achieve results. There is also equipment or props used in classes. "Instructors, fitness professionals and Pilates enthusiasts alike are showing interest in workout routines that incorporate a combination of large and small equipment, used at the same time," Stott Pilates founder Lindsay G. Merrithew said.
On the other hand, yoga classes have various routines depending on the teacher. Classes also include chanting and meditation, which are not part of Pilates.
Which is better?
If you're looking to strengthen and align your body, specifically the back and core after an injury, then a good Pilates workout is more than enough. But if you want to improve body flexibility, balance your mind, body and spirit, or bust stress and believe that exercises can be spiritual, then doing yoga might be better.
