Yoga vs. Pilates: What’s the Difference?

If you’ve ever looked into taking a new exercise class, you might have asked yourself what the difference between yoga and Pilates is. On the surface, they look almost the same – mats, stretching, and breathing is involved in both. Joseph Pilates, the creator, even studied yoga himself.

So what’s the difference between the two? We’ve broken it down for you below.

Similarities
There are many similarities between yoga and Pilates. Both have a heavy emphasis on flexibility. In both exercises, you will use muscles that don’t typically get worked out in a traditional exercise class. Both classes will offer stress-relief and relaxation.

You’ll often find that a yoga studio will offer Pilates class as well as traditional yoga ones – like Bamboo Garden Yoga! The reason for this is that the styles are similar and complement one another well. The cardio that people often feel they are missing from a yoga class can easily be made up in a Pilates one.

Differences
The two are similar, but not the same. There are some very key differences between yoga and Pilates that set them apart from one another.

Yoga
The main difference between yoga and Pilates is the element of spirituality. Yoga has a strong spiritual element to it. It attempts to balance your mind, body, emotions, and spirit with one another. Yoga classes tend to focus on flexibility more too. While some classes do use props, mostly only mats are used. Depending on the yoga types and class level, yoga can be significantly more relaxing and flow than a Pilates’ class.

Pilates
Pilates focuses more on strength, muscle toning, body control, and core strength. There isn’t an obvious spiritual element how there is with yoga. While yoga is freer, Pilates tends to be a more disciplined practice. Expect to work harder, get more cardio, and sweat more in a Pilates’ class. Pilates also frequently makes use of props such as mats, steps, boxes, balls, and bands.

Combination
Both yoga and Pilates are great exercise options. Not only do the build up strength, muscle, balance, and flexibility, but also they are stress relieving. The biggest complaints people have about yoga classes are the lack of cardio. While they can be achieved with certain yoga styles or advancing to higher difficulty, Pilates is also a solution. Taking a combination of yoga and Pilates class will give you a well-rounded exercise regimen.

Check out our schedule and sign up for one of our fantastic Pilates or yoga classes. Contact us with any questions or concerns. We can’t wait to see you there. Namaste!