The benefits of Yoga and Pilates are well known and the two methods share some noticeable similarities. Both are famous for their ability to calm the mind whilst also stretching and strengthening the body.
At Complete Pilates, we don’t like to think of it as “Pilates vs yoga”. Instead, we believe that these two practices are great when performed in combination.
There are differences between the two practices however, the main one being the spiritual component of yoga. Meditation and chants are common in yoga classes, but you’re unlikely to find these elements in your average Pilates reformer class.
Having said that, Joseph Pilates devised Pilates with the aim of uniting mind, body, and spirit. So, although most people might not be aware of it, Pilates does have a spiritual and mindful quality.
To help you understand each practice better – we have looked at yoga and Pilates in four specific areas and how both can help with each and complement each other.
- Yoga or Pilates? – Best For Relaxation
- Yoga or Pilates? – Best For Strength And Toning
- Yoga Or Pilates? – Best For Injury And Recovery
- Yoga Or Pilates? – Best For Flexibility
Yoga or Pilates? – Best For Relaxation
For most people, yoga would win this category hands-down. And it is true that there is a more obvious focus on relaxation in yoga; deep breathing, purposeful movement and the spiritual element make it an intrinsic part of this movement form. Some classes also end with a dedicated period of peace-inducing meditation.
However, Pilates can also be relaxing and a great way to reduce stress. This is because Pilates exercises force you to inhale and exhale deeply and fully. This encourages good breathing habits, which has a calming influence on the nervous system.
Like Yoga, Pilates is also a mindful practice. This is because performing Pilates movements correctly requires complete focus on what is happening inside your body. This encourages you to be mentally present in your Pilates classes.
A mindful state is a calm one, so performing Pilates with this emphasis can make it relaxing.
Yoga or Pilates? – Best For Strength
Pilates is probably best known for its ability to strengthen and lengthen the body. At the same time, having to hold poses for a long duration does mean that yoga is a great way to improve in these areas too.
However, it is also important to remember that yoga is first and foremost a spiritual practice. Pilates exercises, on the other hand, were designed to make the body work at an optimum level.
So while yoga can do wonders and help to build strength and lengthen your body, Pilates promises a workout targeted at strengthening your body and making sure it is functioning at its best.
Yoga Or Pilates? – Best For Injury And Recovery
In terms of injury rehabilitation, Pilates is the practice often favoured by Osteopaths and Physiotherapists. That’s not to say that Yoga can’t be beneficial – it is just not so widely used in that way.
Pilates has the added benefit of the Pilates equipment, such as the Trapeze table or Reformer. These machines make it easy for exercises to be modified so that they become helpful for injured clients.
Having said all that, the mindful and meditative aspect of yoga can be a great way to manage pain.
Yoga Or Pilates? – Best For Flexibility
There’s no denying that yoga’s hip-opening moves, downward dogs and backbends will get your body moving and mobilising in all directions and over time it can increase flexibility and enable you to move bigger and deeper.
But at the same time, Pilates is also a great tool for increasing flexibility as, as outlined already, it focuses on strengthening and lengthening your muscles and encouraging them to work through their full range making them feel longer.
You’ll notice things like spine mobility and hamstring length improve with regular Pilates classes. If you combine both yoga and Pilates into your workout or rehabilitation regime then there’s no doubt both will compliment each other and you’ll be able to reap the benefits from both.
Yoga Or Pilates? – Best For Cardio
This really depends on the type of Pilates or yoga class you choose to attend.
Regular Pilates might not get your heart rate up a huge amount, but choose a “jump board” Reformer class and you will definitely feel the effects.
Similarly, yoga can be sweaty and provide a good cardio workout if you choose bikram, vinyasa or any other class with an intense flow.
Yoga vs Pilates? What Comes Out On Top?
So, yoga or Pilates? Ultimately this depends on your individual needs and wants from a practice.
As we have demonstrated, yoga and Pilates offer amazing benefits. And, either in combination or separately, both methods can help transform your body and mind.
The most important thing, however, is to choose one that you like and that you can commit to regularly.
At Complete Pilates we would advise you to always speak to your doctor, physiotherapist, or clinical Pilates instructor here at Complete Pilates if you are worried about starting a new exercise. We are trained to safely treat and create manageable plans to keep you healthy.
Get in touch online or contact us on 0203 764 5668 for further information and / or advice!
You can find us at one of our Pilates studios in London and speak to us about your needs. You can find us at our studios below:
These blogs are designed to give information to everyone, however, it is important to remember that everyone is different! If you have not seen one of our therapists and have any questions about injuries, what you have read or whether this may be useful to you, please just ask. We are more than happy to help anyone and point you in the right direction. Our biggest belief is that education is key. The more you understand about your injury, illness and movement, the more you are likely to improve.
