The Difference Between Yoga And Pilates

Yoga and Pilates are often thrown into the same category, due to their similarities practice. However their are some major differences that many people don’t recognize. Here are a few

Yoga

Yoga originated from India with the purpose of connecting the individual consciousness with the universal consciousness through physical activity. Yoga or aims improve your physical, emotional and spiritual health . If practiced daily the act of yoga can be therapeutic. In addition to being therapeutic, yoga focuses on building flexibility and strength. Many types of yoga involve meditation at some point during the exercise.

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Pilates

Pilates is a unique exercise that originated in 1920 by Joseph Pilates for physical rehabilitation. The idea behind Pilates is to gain flexibility, strength and body awareness without building bulk. It is a resistance exercise, even though, as a beginner, you may experience an increased heart rate. Similar to Yoga, Pilates has a full mat routine. The main aim of Pilates is to strengthen the stomach, improve posture, stabilize and elongate the spine and develop balance and overall strength.

Photo: Devin Thomas

Difference between Pilates and yoga

The biggest difference between Pilates and yoga is the ultimate goal. Yoga provides a meditative environment for you to improve your overall quality of life. It focuses on stress relief while improving your body.

Pilates works from the center of your body outward. It forces you to increases your body awareness and work from your core, resulting in a stronger body.