Yoga and Pilates are often spoke of together. While both are ‘mind body’ classes, in essence they are different things altogether!
Let’s focus a little on their origins.
- Yoga originated in India
- Yoga is a rooted deep philosophy dating back thousands of years
- In Yoga philosophy there are many aspects and Asana (posture), which is typically what we know to be Yoga in the West, is just a small part of Yoga
- Yoga works the body, mind and etheric body
- Pilates was developed in the early 1900’s by German born Joseph Pilates. Before his death in 1967, he had named the practice ‘Contrology’
- Pilates developed the practice as he recognised the link between health and physical fitness
- Pilates took aspect of many practices such a dance, gymnastics, martial arts and Yoga
- Pilates is about body conditioning with a large emphasis on the core and body stability
Difference in practice (in a nutshell!)
In Pilates you will take a body position and challenge your core here, for example by moving the arms or legs.
Pilates is absolutely considered as exercise, and you will often use equipment in a Pilates class such as a resistance band or ball.
There aren’t many variations to Pilates in that you don’t get many different styles.
In Yoga practice, you don’t generally move when you are in an Asana. Depending on the style of Yoga you may move a little, hold a pose briefly or for a length of time (please see Lianne’s article on the Yoga styles we offer at Odyssey for more information).
As a philosophy there are many aspects to Yoga, traditionally Asana are practiced to prepare the body to spend long periods of time in meditation.
Asana is also practiced to work and clear the subtle energy channels of the body and helping to bringing stillness to the mind.
Similarities
- Both teach body awareness
- Both practices work with the breath and breathing properly
- Both are practiced in a calm way
- They can both be adapted for different abilities
- Neither are competitive practices and allow you to work with your body
What I best for me?
Both are fantastic practices and absolutely both have many advantages to regular practice.
If you are looking to build strength and tone in your body, gain a stronger core and body control, Pilates could be the one for you.
If you are looking for a more spiritual practice, and want to work the body and mind, then Yoga may be your choice.
What we would say is, absolutely don’t dismiss either and do try both. You will then observe how each one has made you feel and you might find you actually love both.
We always suggest if you are unsure if a class is for you, to tune on the Odyssey App > at home > on demand and have a little watch. This is a great way to see if you think you would enjoy the class.
Please do speak to us – Lianne, Sarah, Celeste if you would like more information or have any questions.
