Pilates Vs. Yoga 101

Both Pilates and yoga are great ways to strengthen your muscles, increase your flexibility, and reduce stress. Both are also a great way to cross-train and promote a mind-body approach to achieving wellness. However, there are some fundamental differences between Pilates and yoga that are highlighted below.

Pilates

- A whole-body approach to physical fitness

- Created by Joseph Pilates in the 20th century (Interesting fact – Pilates studied martial arts and yoga.)

- Focuses on building core strength, lengthening the spine, improving flexibility, and correcting imbalances in the body

- Very effective for physical rehabilitation

- Produces long, lean muscles                                                  

- Can be performed on the mat or on various pieces of Pilates equipment

Yoga

- An ancient practice from northern India (Interesting fact – Yoga is over 5000 years old.)

- Promotes physical and mental well being

- Incorporates static poses and dynamic movements

- Builds strength and increases flexibility

- Very effective for finding harmony and releasing stress

- Performed on a mat or towel