Which is better: Yoga or Pilates?

Maybe you are looking to switch up your workouts, or maybe you are looking to try something new, and you find yourself asking the question: Which is better – yoga, or Pilates?  Maybe you’re not even sure what to expect with one or both.  The real question is, what are you looking for?  Bottom line, both are excellent additions to any workout routine and below we tell you why so that you can decide for yourself!

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Studio 1723 Pilates Plank.jpgWhat’s the difference?

Yoga is a physical discipline that, in very simple terms, combines breath control, movement, and specific body postures to foster a mind-body connection.  Certain styles are referred to as “moving meditation”, and many people find that practicing Yoga as part of their workout routine promotes a sense of relaxation and well-being.

Pilates is a method of exercise developed in the 1920s that consists of low-impact movements, sometimes with the assistance of specifically designed apparatus, that promote muscular strength, flexibility, and endurance. Pilates focuses on core strength and stability, proper postural alignment, and muscle balance.

Wild Thing Yoga Movetn.jpgWhat can they do for me?

Both forms of exercise help to improve flexibility and range of motion, which are essential in helping with injury prevention and overall physical efficiency and productivity.

Yoga is an ancient practice steeped in a very spiritual ideology – the idea that mind and body are one.  While there are many different forms and styles of yoga practice, all are centered around the connection of breath to movement.  Using this connection as an anchor during your practice enhances focus, can release stress, and can also serve to balance and align your inner self with your outer self.  Some types of classes, like Yin Yoga or Hatha Yoga are more restorative, while other types like Vinyasa Yoga can provide more of a calorie-burning, strength-building workout.

Studio_2040-2.jpgPilates is low impact by nature, and therefore accessible to all.  Additionally, Pilates workouts can be done effectively with the specialized equipment or without in a Pilates Mat class.  Because of the accessibility of movement, Pilates offers an excellent rehabilitative workout, and is a go-to for many professional athletes and dancers to build strength without placing additional stress on their joints and bodies.  Pilates workouts build strong, lean muscles with a full body workout.  Breath and movement are still an important component, but without the spiritual element common in yoga.

So which one should I do?

If they both sound interesting to you, try both!  They are great compliments to each other, and both an excellent addition to complete your workout week.  Dive into one of our yoga classes or Pilates mat classes, or if you are adventurous, take advantage of our Two for $99 Private Pilates sessions to get started at one of our Pilates Studios!

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