Yoga and Pilates are two of the most prominent mind/body exercises around, but what sets them apart? You do them on the floor, they are often seen together in the holistic “mind-body” section of the exercise world, and both promise to be a mental and physical panacea. But, despite these similarities, yoga and Pilates spring from different schools of thought.    

Yoga and Pilates: Defining Differences and Similarities

    “Yoga was developed thousands of years ago and is based in spiritual practice of union, Eliza D. Morgan, YMCA fitness trainer and certified Pilates instructor said. “Pilates was developed within the last 100 years, more or less, by an individual named Joseph Pilates who invented machines and developed mat exercises that rehabilitate the body through mind/body coordination.”

    Pilates is mostly body oriented, and a session typically includes a short series of exercise sets with some mind-body focus, while yoga incorporates deep breathing and longer sets of exercises and intense mind introspection.

    “In my opinion, yoga is a bit more serious than Pilates,” Stephanie Keach, yoga and Pilates instructor said. “Students are encouraged to study the self while in the postures. In Pilates, people are reminded to think about which muscle groups to focus on.”

    What they have in common is core strengthening. Both yoga and Pilates focus on stretching, strengthening/toning, and are rehabilitative techniques that improve posture, joint mobility and balance within the musculoskeletal system.  Blood flow to organs is also enhanced by both practices.

    “Having core strength is really the key to happiness as we experience injury, illness and old age,” Keach said. “Specifically with yoga, I have seen amazing results in people with asthma, allergies, diabetes, anxiety disorders, eating disorders, bone spurs, foot problems, heart conditions, poor digestion, and more.”

What are the Primary Benefits of Yoga and Pilates?

While Keach prefers yoga to Pilates, she sees benefits in both.

    “Yoga has more breath awareness. I find a deeper connection with my mind and body and am able to achieve a deeper peace,” Keach said. “However, Pilates is great for someone seeking pure toning and conditioning.”   

    As a fitness trainer, Morgan teaches all types and levels of strengthening/flexibility exercises.  She also includes yoga-type stretches and poses within her personal exercise program.  She explains that she prefers Pilates because the emphasis is on strengthening and stabilization of the body’s core muscle structure as well as strengthening, stretching and toning of the entire body.

    “More and more Pilates teachers are becoming interested in yoga as well and, therefore, a fusion of the two often occurs,” Keach explains.  “While traditionalists may be up in arms about this, I think it’s wonderful to see the Americanization of these systems blending together. It’s a product of our culture.”
So, how do you decide which is for you?

    “I would recommend trying each,” Keach advises. “Every instructor will have a certain flavor or style.”

    Keep in mind that any pre-existing medical conditions can be worsened by any type of exercise.  A skilled instructor will be able to work around this.  

    “If a person came to me and asked which class would best suit them, I would first evaluate their strength and note any pre-existing medical conditions,” Morgan explains. “I would recommend seeking medical advice for any pre-existing conditions before beginning any type of exercise program.”

    Pilates and yoga also have little impact on the joints.  Both methods are designed to strengthen/tone muscles without impact on the knees and hips (as in aerobics/running).  When done correctly, joint mobility, balance, posture, back strength and core stability improve.   

What equipment do I need to practice Yoga or Pilates?

    Since Pilates and yoga and have many similarities, the equipment needed for both also crosses over. If you would like to start practicing at home, the first thing you will need is a Pilates DVD or yoga video. Additional items include:

•    Yoga sticky mat: for non-slip exercising;
•    Yoga blanket: used for poses and to keep the body warm during final relaxation;
•    Yoga foam wedge: assists in poses;
•    Toning ball: helps with core strengthening and stability; and
•    Spa Rhythms CD