If you’re looking for a new way to move this year you might be sitting there comparing Pilates and Yoga studios. If you haven’t experienced them both for yourself you may be getting a bit confused as you spiral into your google hole.
Yoga and Pilates often get lumped together. It’s true that there are some similarities however let’s focus this blog on what the main differences are to help you make an educated decision on what you’d like to try first:
1. MOVEMENT WITH SOUL
Yoga offers a holistic approach to both physical and spiritual well-being, while pilates focuses mainly on physical conditioning. When you participates in a Pilates class you feel like you’re exercising your body. When you practise a Yoga class you can feel a deeper connection with your mind, body and breath ~ Yoga is movement with soul.
2. STRENGTH & LENGTH
Both Yoga and Pilates are forms of low-impact exercise suitable for all levels of fitness. They both focus on strengthening and toning muscles – if you’re practising dynamic Yoga classes like Vinyasa Flow or Hot Yoga – however Yoga also has a focus on improving your flexibility and mobility for longevity.
3. MENTAL WELLBEING
Digging deeper into the mind-body connection, Yoga can help to reduce stress and anxiety through movement, breathwork and meditation. Even dynamic Yoga classes weave in these elements ~ including Savasana which is a short relaxation technique at the end of each class. Pilates is a wonderful way to get your body moving, however it doesn’t have the same focus towards mental wellbeing.
Hopefully that gives you a little more clarity on the similarities and differences between Yoga and Pilates.
If you’re keen to give Pilates a go you will no doubt find a wonderful studio to try in your area.
If you’re interested in Yoga we’d love to meet you!
If you’re in the Melbourne area we have 2 studio locations in Boroondara and Bayside ~ Hawthorn and Hampton.
All newcomers receive our Intro Offer ‘2 Weeks Unlimited Yoga For $55’ to give you a chance to try our different class styles ~ Hot, Flow, Slow Flow & Yin Yoga.
If you’re from outside of Melbourne we have our Online Studio with over 1000 classes to choose from in our On Demand Library and fresh classes being added each week.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions, we’re happy to help.
Kacey & Team Kula
