The Differences Between Yoga and Pilates

 Pilates is sometimes associated with Yoga. Although Pilates is inspired by Yoga, there are significant differences.

Here you can read about some differences and common benefits of Yoga and Pilates. 

EQUIPMENT AND MACHINES

Both Yoga and Pilates can be practiced with the body as the only resistance. Both may be practiced barefoot on a mat. However, unlike Yoga where you use little equipment, such as the bolster and Yoga blocks. Pilates incorporates more equipments. Some of them being, the Fitness circle, Pilates ball, Wobblies, Arc Barrel, Foam roller, Flex band etc. In Pilates those equipments are used in order to help get a deeper connection with the muscles and various focus points. Another aspect that probably differ the two the most, are the machines. Pilates was developed to be practiced on various machines. The most common ones that you will come across are: The Reformer, The Cadillac, Chair and Barrel.

MUSCULAR STRENGTH AND FLEXIBILITY

Both Yoga and Pilates focuses on the breathing pattern, increased muscular strength, flexibility and heightened body-mind awareness. Also, the various focus points of the body varies. Pilates has a greater focus on posture which makes the spine, core, neck, shoulders and pelvis important focus points. In Yoga one focus more on Chakra, which may be referred to as the wheel of energy (life sources). Yoga is known for unite, body, mind and spirit to a greater extent than Pilates. Pilates has less of a spiritual focus compared to Yoga.

BENEFITS OF YOGA AND PILATES

When looking at the benefits of the two they are more or less the same, apart from Yoga being more spiritual.
The benefits of both Yoga and Pilates:

Increased flexibility.
Increased muscle strength and endurance.
Body toning.
Improved respiration, energy and vitality.
Weight reduction.
Cardio and circulatory health.
Improved athletic performance.
Protection from injury.

Pilates requires you to engage your entire body. For instance you may strengthen one muscle while stretching another. The practice requires much concentration just like Yoga. For every move you think you’ve mastered, Pilates has another version that’s a little different and a little harder. With so many variations and progressions, it is hard getting bored with Pilates. This is also true for Pilates.