Pilates Vs Yoga – A New Point of View

Which is better? How are they similar? what is the difference between them? This review of two of the most popular forms of exercise is a brief but comprehensive view from one of today’s leading Pilates instructors, who has also taught yoga for as many as 35 years.

breathing

Pilates and yoga are strangely similar and at the same time profoundly different when it comes to breathing. Both methods emphasize the breath, but take it in different directions.

Breathing is one of the most important principles in Pilates. Joseph Pilates, the founder, highlighted breathing in his books and in his instruction.

According to my teacher and ‘Pilates Elder’ Mary Bowen, Joseph Pilates never developed any special breathing mechanics, although some of his students did develop various techniques after his death. Joe Pilates created breathing patterns to accompany each exercise, natural breathing that allows for frequent, full breaths as you move. The effect is exhilarating, and in fact, Pilates is known to be energizing rather than exhausting even after the most rigorous workout.

Yoga far surpasses Pilates in developing a particular breathing mechanics. The complexity and depth of yoga pranayama (breathing) techniques include breathing through different nostrils in different patterns of inhalation, exhalation, and breath retention, all designed to create and move energy in the body. I have explored breathing techniques in Pilates and yoga and have found both to be very energizing.

mind and body

Few exercise methods connect mind and body like Pilates and yoga.

Focusing your attention on your movement is key to both methods. Yoga goes a step further by adding a spiritual or religious dimension with meditation and, in certain traditions, chanting and devotion to the teacher.

History

Joseph Pilates was born in Germany in 1883. He studied all forms of exercise available in his day, including Eastern forms such as yoga. He first developed his method nearly 100 years ago.

He moved to New York in the ’60s and first introduced his method to the dance community, where it was an instant hit. From there she gained worldwide popularity. It is used by elite athletes, celebrities and physical therapists and is especially effective for physical rehabilitation such as back pain.

Since the death of Joe Pilates in the late 1960s, the method has morphed into many schools and fusions like yogalates, zumbalates, tangolates, and even piloxing (pilates and boxing).

In contrast, yoga dates back thousands of years. The oldest evidence appears in 4,500-year-old seals from the Indus Valley. Experts agree that the yoga tradition is probably much older. light on yogaUniversally considered the bible of yoga, it lists hundreds of treatments for illnesses using particular yoga positions.

Yaga has also transformed into many different schools and mergers.

without machinery

Although both methods readily use balls, bands, and other props, neither requires any equipment. You can do it anywhere and anytime – the ultimate in convenience.

There is equipment specially designed for Pilates, but it is not necessary. In fact, the non-equipment mat exercise routine is the original Pilates method that Joe Pilates called ‘Contrology’.

Extension

No review of these two exercise methods should neglect their various forms of stretching. However, no other discussion I’ve read does!

Characteristics of yoga static stretch. This means holding a position while stretching your muscles. On the contrary, Pilates is dynamic stretch where muscles lengthen as you move. Research indicates further benefits of dynamic stretching due to increased muscle recovery and reduced risk of injury.

Speaking from my personal experience as a teacher and practitioner of both Pilates and hatha yoga, I find static stretching wonderful for relaxation and stress relief. On the other hand, I find dynamic stretching to be a better option for relieving back and joint pain and for improving sports performance.

Strength and Cardio

Exercise science has shown that our bodies need 3 different types of exercise: strength training, stretching, and cardiovascular conditioning popularly known as cardio or aerobics. These three essential exercises are rarely included in a single method. Pilates always includes 2: stretching and strength training. Advanced Pilates mat exercises also include cardio for an unusually comprehensive method of exercise.

By contrast, yoga consists primarily of stretching and rarely includes strength training or cardio. There are exceptions, such as the very athletic forms of yoga found in the Iyengar, Ashtanga, and Bikram methods.

Which is better?

I think I can offer an interesting perspective on this question, because I have practiced and taught both for nearly 4 decades. In my experience, you get a more spiritual dimension from yoga, as well as relaxation. However, research shows that any exercise is very effective at relieving stress. But if you want a full workout with strengthening, stretching, and cardio, Pilates is my go-to option.