Understanding the Difference between Pilates and Yoga for Your Fitness Goals

Pilates and yoga are both very popular fitness practices at the moment, and to the layman, they may seem to be the almost same thing. They both incorporate stretching and strength training, but they are very different in philosophy, and they help to achieve different types of health and fitness goals. If you’re thinking about getting into either or both of these practices, it’s a good idea to compare and contrast the two first.

The Evolution of Pilates

Pilates is an exercise system that shares many principles with yoga, because Joseph Pilates derived the system from ancient yoga asanas (or poses) when he developed it more than 80 years ago. He came up with Pilates to help dancers strengthen their bodies, and it has been used for this purpose for decades.

In recent years, this exercise system has experienced a sudden rise in popularity. Pilates relies on exercises that work the core in particular, while engaging the entire body. These exercises focus on the abdominal, lower back and stabilizing muscles, and in the process use virtually all the major muscles. Some Pilates practitioners add specific machines and weights to their routines, but this isn’t necessary. A good mat and some resistance tools are all you need. The main benefit of Pilates is that you can achieve muscle strength and tone without getting bulky, so it’s great for runners and dancers, or anyone who wants that lean, fit, healthy look.

The Traditions of Yoga

Yoga has been around much longer than Pilates; the former inspired the latter. True yogis (yoga practitioners) do not only exercise; they engage in a complete holistic system of physical and mental wellbeing that includes breathing, diet, hygiene, meditation, pre-meditation, relaxation, stretching and strength training.

People have been practicing yoga for millennia, and there are many different versions and levels to suit your needs, should you choose to begin practicing this system of health and wellbeing. Yoga is the most effective type of exercise for those who want to balance physical strength with mental wellbeing. The added bonus is that yoga exercises can give you a beautifully toned body.

Pilates and yoga both offer numerous benefits and have many similarities. The main difference is the mental wellbeing component unique to yoga. Many people insist it even helps you live longer, by bathing internal organs with oxygenated blood and increasing your “chi.” What could be wrong with that?