Pilates vs. Yoga: The Differences and What's Right for You

Yoga and Pilates are two types of low impact workouts that use your body weight as resistance. There are benefits to both. Here is a comparison to help you choose which may help you reach your fitness goals.

Pilates, yoga, Yogilates, PiYo. They all seem to offer similar workouts, so how do you choose? Pilates and yoga have significantly evolved in recent years. With different variations available at gyms and studios around the world, there’s something for almost everyone.

Yoga and Pilates are both low impact workouts that focus on using bodyweight resistance. The benefits are vast. Both workouts can increase overall health, leading to a better quality of life.

As with any exercise, proper form is crucial. Modifications must be made for those with physical limitations.

Pilates

Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates at the end of World War I. It was primarily used as rehabilitation for wounded soldiers. Pilates brought his method to the United States in 1923 and spent years refining his approach.

Pilates may:

increase muscle strength and endurance

improve flexibility and posture

lead to better balance

result in decreased joint pain

Pilates focuses on small movements that require the use of important stabilizing muscles of the back and core. There is a strong emphasis on starting each exercise with a controlled breath that initiates a contraction of the core muscles. Pilates can be done on a mat or on specialized equipment. The equipment is unique as it only uses springs, levers, and your own body weight to provide resistance.

Evidence suggests that Pilates may be beneficial for those with the following conditions:

arthritis

urinary incontinence

respiratory conditions

joint injuries

back pain

Yoga

Share on Pinterest

Yoga originated in India over five thousand years ago, first mentioned in ancient Hindu scriptures known as the Vedas. It’s centered around the five beliefs of:

proper relaxation

exercise

breathing

diet

positive thinking and meditation

Mindfulness and deep breathing are key features in a yoga practice. Although there are many different types of yoga, holding various poses and flowing through different series of movements is standard in most classes. Yoga can be seen as a form of mind-body fitness. It combines physical activity and mindful focus. This brings increased awareness to the breath and energy.

The benefits of yoga have been studied extensively. In addition to physical and mental benefits, yoga is also known to have positive effects on medical issues, including:

anxiety

depression

multiple sclerosis

arthritis

respiratory conditions

high blood pressure

chronic pain

type 2 diabetes

Yoga and Pilates similarities

Both yoga and mat Pilates can be done with little equipment. They require only the use of a mat and a few additional props, like a block or a Pilates ring, if desired.

They both focus on using the breath properly during exercise and emphasize diaphragmatic breathing, or breathing deep into the belly.

Both yoga and Pilates require mental focus and can help reduce stress. They can also be tailored to different fitness levels.

Yoga vs. Pilates: Which is better?

Yoga and Pilates are both great workouts. If you have a health condition, you may want to consult an instructor to determine what’s best for you.

Many forms of yoga require substantial flexibility and mobility of the joints, especially the spine, hips, and wrists. Although most poses can be modified, a person with severe limitations or pain may find it challenging to follow along in more advanced classes.

There are many different styles of yoga, including restorative yoga, acro yoga, and chair yoga. Finding what works best for your body is key.

Pilates can be a great exercise for older adults or those recovering from an injury due to its low impact exercises and subtle movements. There are many forms of Pilates. The main difference between them is the type of equipment used.

Equipment-based workouts use many of the same movements as in a mat class but with added resistance. Mat Pilates is great for many people, but it can be more challenging for those with decreased mobility or poor core strength.

Pilates can be expensive, and access to equipment is mandatory for some forms of Pilates. As with yoga, Pilates can be modified, but proper teaching and performance of the exercises is crucial to avoid injury.

Warnings

Modify your workouts if you experience from back or neck pain or have respiratory problems. Talk with your doctor before trying Pilates or yoga if you’re pregnant or have other physical restrictions.

Always consult your doctor and a certified instructor before starting any exercise program. You may want to think about taking private lessons before jumping into a class or following a workout video. Incorrect form or pushing yourself past your limits may cause injury.

Next steps

Yoga and Pilates are both great additions to your weekly exercise routine. These workouts will help you reach your goals if you’re looking to:

build long, lean muscles

increase your flexibility

gain mental clarity

improve your core stability

Yoga can help deepen your meditation practice, improve your flexibility, and help with balance. Pilates may be better for recovering after an injury and improving posture and core strength.

Share on Pinterest

Posted : 2024-08-26 16:32

Disclaimer

Every effort has been made to ensure that the information provided by Drugslib.com is accurate, up-to-date, and complete, but no guarantee is made to that effect. Drug information contained herein may be time sensitive. Drugslib.com information has been compiled for use by healthcare practitioners and consumers in the United States and therefore Drugslib.com does not warrant that uses outside of the United States are appropriate, unless specifically indicated otherwise. Drugslib.com's drug information does not endorse drugs, diagnose patients or recommend therapy. Drugslib.com's drug information is an informational resource designed to assist licensed healthcare practitioners in caring for their patients and/or to serve consumers viewing this service as a supplement to, and not a substitute for, the expertise, skill, knowledge and judgment of healthcare practitioners.

The absence of a warning for a given drug or drug combination in no way should be construed to indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective or appropriate for any given patient. Drugslib.com does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Drugslib.com provides. The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist.