Both pilates and yoga can benefit anyone who wants to increase their strength and flexibility, but there are some slight differences in the practices. The biggest variation being that typically you go into a yoga pose and hold it, or flow into the next one. Pilates involves going into a position, then challenging your core by moving your arms and/or legs. So which one is right for you?
The History of Pilates
According to webmd.com, back in the late 1800s a sickly German child named Joseph Pilates studied yoga, martial arts, and other mind-body disciplines to improve his health. During WWI, he became more interested in body movement while working with injured soldiers. “After the war, he brought his style of exercise to New York City, where dancers, actors, and athletes embraced it.”
With Pilates moves, you stabilize your core before going through a series of range-of-motion exercises. You can use specially designed machines or do Pilates on a mat without equipment or props.
Benefits of Pilates
- Increased core strength and flexibility
- Improved posture and stability
- Reduction in lower back and neck pain
- De-stresses which benefits the heart
For the most part, Pilates is safe for everyone, including pregnant women, seniors, and children.