Pilates vs. Yoga: Which is Best for Your Fitness Goals?

There are many styles of workouts that are popular in the current world of fitness. Two that are very effective are pilates and yoga. These two types of exercises have changed a lot over the years and have come with many different variations you can access. From online classes to studio or gym sessions, it is easy to access yoga and pilates, and there are many different types for anyone to choose from. The two forms of workouts have some similarities: they are both low-impact and use body resistance as a main form of exercise. They both have some similar benefits, and they are both wonderful options to improve your health. But how do you know which option is better for you? There are some key differences that make these styles of exercise different and can make one style better for your specific needs. Read on to learn more about the differences between pilates and yoga, and which one is better for your fitness goals. 

Pilates

Pilates was first created by Joseph Pilates when World War I ended, and he used it as rehabilitation for wounded soldiers. He brought his breakthrough new exercise to the United States when he returned in 1923.

Pilates can typically help to strengthen muscle strength, flexibility, and posture. It can also help improve balance and decrease joint pain. One of the key aspects of Pilates is that it focuses on small movements that require stabilizing the back and core muscles. While performing pilates, the idea is to start off each movement with controlled breathing, which can help boost emphasis on core muscle contraction. 

Pilates is an interesting concept from a mechanical standpoint, as the equipment only uses your body weight as resistance with the assistance of springs and levers. Pilates is said to benefit a number of conditions: back pain, joint pain and industries, arthritis, urinary incontinence, and respiratory conditions. 

Yoga

Yoga has origins that are not necessarily known or agreed upon. But what is known is that it dates back at least 3,000 years and has roots in Buddhism, Shamanism, and similar Eastern religions. 

The five principles of yoga include relaxation, exercise, diet, breathing, positive thinking, and meditation. Mindfulness and deep breathing are key aspects of practicing yoga and are what lay the foundation for its mind-body fitness approach. It is a combination of exercising your body and maintaining mindful focus. Bringing awareness to your breath and the different sensations of your body are what sets yoga apart from other types of exercise. 

Yoga is thought to be helpful for a number of physical and mental aspects of life, including: depression, arthritis, anxiety, high blood pressure, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain, type 2 diabetes, and respiratory conditions. 

Which is better for you: Yoga or Pilates?

Both yoga and pilates are great forms of workouts. And while they can both be beneficial to you, one can be more helpful than the other. The most important thing to do is to always consult your doctor and a yoga and pilates instructor to determine what plan is best for you. 

Yoga requires a lot of flexibility and mobility, especially in the areas of the hips, wrists, and along the spine. Many poses would be difficult for someone who has mobility issues or severe physical limitations – although some poses can be modified. 

Finding a style of yoga for you is the key to enjoying this form of exercise if you have any sort of physical limitations. You can research styles like acro yoga, chair yoga, and restorative yoga, to name a few. 

Pilates is great for individuals who are recovering from an injury or who are older in age because it is super low in impact and force. There are also a variety of different styles of pilates, so there is likely to be a suitable option for just about everyone. 

One of the limitations for Pilates lies in its affordability, as it can be a bit expensive to invest in the equipment that is required for several types of Pilates. This could be one of the main reasons that deters some people from utilizing pilates as a form of exercise.