I have always believed that Yoga and Pilates make a great partnership. Both are transformational methods focusing on the body, mind and spirit. Positive change is facilitated by quiet introspection and a deep awareness awakens through the process.

In my opinion, their differences make them complement each other in the best possible ways.  However, there are a lot of similarities between Yoga and Pilates.

Many of the movements you’ll see in Pilates are in fact inspired by Yoga so you’ll see postures that are similar. One of the major differences is in fact the length of time that a posture is held. Typically in Yoga, the posture is held longer, whereas in Pilates, you tend to move through the postures.

Similarities between Yoga and Pilates.

Both connect the mind and body to cultivate a greater sense of awareness. The breath is a major link.
Both encourage “mindful movement” and focus on the process rather than the end result.
Both have many health benefits and have been proven to reduce stress and illness
Both increase mental focus and clarity.
Both improve posture and reduce back pain.

Some key differences between Yoga and Pilates.

Yoga concentrates mostly on large, functional movement patterns increasing overall strength and flexibility of the spine and limbs; Pilates focuses on building deep core strength first and teaches correct muscle activation, which is important for alleviating back pain.
In Yoga, the primary goal is the connection to breath and various pranayama techniques are utilised. Pilates encourages breathing in through the nose and out of the mouth to assist in engaging deep abdominal connection.
Yoga needs nothing more than a mat.  Pilates has a mat based component as well as specially designed equipment, such as a Reformer, with springs and pulleys to either assist or challenge movements.

How you will benefit from Pilates.

You will learn how to work your body from the deepest stabilising system of the torso, which will strengthen your foundation. This will improve all of your other movements and enable you to move safely and efficiently. Many of you spend very long periods of time at desks, computers and in cars and your posture is suffering which leads to injury and pain. Pilates will help to correct this imbalance by targeting specific areas in your body.

Whether your goals are playing sport socially or at an elite level, or just being able to pick up your shopping and children pain free, you’ll have the body awareness to carry out these tasks safely and efficiently. Gentle yet challenging at the same time, it’s effective for everyone.
You will also notice a big difference in your Yoga practise if you incorporate some Pilates into your weekly well-being routine.
So if you want to your Warrior to be even stronger and your Crow Pose to soar to new heights, give it a go.

 

Pilates:

The Pilates method focuses on the “powerhouse” or the deep stabilising system of the torso, which supports the spine. All of the movements emanate from the deep centre of the body so that the structure is stable and able to move safely and efficiently. Gentle and challenging at the same time, it is effective for everyone.

“In 10 sessions you will feel the difference, in 20 sessions you will see the difference, and in 30 sessions you will have a new body.” – Joesph Pilates.

Yoga:

It’s origin is a spiritual one and used as a means to move energy.