This is a common question and easily confused, let me try and simply explain the difference.
Pilates is a method of exercise that is low impact, working on flexibility, muscular strength and endurance. Pilates focuses on postural alignment, core strength and muscle balance.
Joseph Pilates created “pilates” almost one hundred years ago, to rehabilitate injured WW1 soldiers and later for strength and conditioning for dancers.
There are many hybrid forms of pilates and methods taught by different schools, you will find pilates classes range from strong workouts to very gentle, and you may need to try a few to find the best suited to your level and needs.
Summary Pilates Benefits
- Postural alignment and correction
- Injury rehabilitation
- Core conditioning
- Muscle Balance
- Flexibility and Mobility
Yoga is a physical, mental, and spiritual practice or discipline, recognised as an ancient system of philosophies derived from India and the Himalayas more than 2500 years ago. In yoga the body, breath and mind are seen as a union.
The 3 main aspects taught in “modern” yoga are
Asana – meaning the poses/postures
Pranayama – meaning the breath and breathing techniques to calm the body and mind
Mediation or Relaxation – Done usually at the end of practice
There are many types of yoga, you may have heard of Hatha, Yin, Ashtanga, Iyengar etc. Again, like pilates you will also find hybrid versions that combine elements from different styles.
If you are after a specific style, do a little more research into which will suit you.
Summary Yoga Benefits
- Union of Mind and Body
- Flexibility and strength
- Relaxation and stress relief
- Joint mobility
- Release stagnate energy in poses
