Pilates or yoga… perhaps you need both!
If I had a pound for every time someone asks me, as a Pilates instructor, how my yoga business is going…!! So, both practises may indeed conjure up images of comfy leggings, long-lean muscles, majestic breathing, incredible inner-strength and eternal well-being. But what are the specific differences, and which one is the most desirable path to stellar strength and holistic happiness?! Could it be both…?
Yoga vs Pilates: What’s the Difference?
Although they share similarities, they each offer a unique approach to physical and mental fitness. Understanding the differences between yoga and Pilates can help guide you between the two...
1. Origins and Philosophy
Yoga: Originating in ancient India, yoga is much more than just a physical practice. It combines breathwork (pranayama), physical postures (asanas), meditation, and mindfulness to promote overall harmony and well-being. The goal of yoga is to unite body, mind, and spirit, fostering a deeper connection with yourself and the world around you.
Pilates: Developed by Joseph Pilates in the early 20th century, Pilates was originally created as a rehabilitation method for injured soldiers. It focuses on strengthening core muscles and improving posture, flexibility, and balance. Pilates is more centered on physical fitness with an emphasis on controlled, precise movements. However, breathwork and mindfulness will still feature in many classes!
2. Approach to Movement
Yoga: Yoga incorporates a variety of postures that often flow together in sequences, such as in Vinyasa or Ashtanga styles. The movements are generally held for longer periods to promote flexibility and relaxation, and the practice emphasizes mindfulness and controlled breathing.
Pilates: Pilates focuses on small, controlled movements that target specific muscle groups, especially the deep muscles of the core, back, and pelvis. Movements can be performed on a mat or using specialized equipment (e.g., reformers) to enhance resistance. Pilates emphasizes precision, alignment and fluidity. (But we can also flow and sequence too!)
3. Focus on the Core
Yoga: While yoga does strengthen the core, its focus is broader - with attention to overall flexibility, strength, and mental clarity. Certain postures activate the core, but there is less emphasis on isolated core work.
Pilates: Pilates is often referred to as the "art of controlled movement," with an emphasis on building a strong, stable core. The core muscles (abdominals, lower back, hips) are the foundation of nearly every exercise in Pilates, which helps improve posture, balance, mobility and overall body awareness.
4. Breathing Techniques
Yoga: Breathing in yoga is deeply connected to movement, with techniques to calm the mind and enhance flexibility. The focus is on slow, deep, rhythmic breathing that complements each posture.
Pilates: Pilates also incorporates specific breathing techniques. The principle of breathing in Pilates is to inhale through the nose to prepare for a movement, and to exhale through the mouth during the exertion phase of an exercise, helping to engage the core and support the body during movement.
5. Mental Focus
Yoga: One of yoga’s core principles is mental clarity and relaxation. Many styles of yoga integrate meditation and mindfulness practices, which help to reduce stress and promote mental well-being. The practice is designed to create a sense of inner peace and balance.
Pilates: Pilates also requires mental focus, but it’s more about concentration and control. Practising pilates trains us to be aware of our alignment and movements, aiming for precision and flow. But while there is a mental aspect, Pilates tends to focus more on the physical. This isn’t to say you won’t leave your class feeling wonderfully relaxed and restored! Many instructors will include mindfulness, relaxation and feel good stretches in their sessions. (And Pilates guru, Rael Isacowitz, described the practice as “meditation in motion”!)
Which is Right for You?
Both yoga and Pilates offer multiple benefits for body and mind - helping you to bring strength, movement, balance and well-being to your life. You may be more attracted to the mindfulness and relaxation of yoga, or the strength and precision of Pilates. But all instructors of either discipline will bring unique elements and styles to their classes.
Try out different sessions of yoga and Pilates and go with what feels best for your body - perhaps a combination of both. A long stretch, slow breath, mindful moment, calm focus, alignment, activation, relaxation - a good instructor will find all the things you need… And your body will thank you for it!