The Difference Between Yoga and Pilates

Let’s explore a question that I get quite often: Some of my friends do Yoga and some do Pilates. Both techniques look pretty much alike to me. What's the difference?

Well, the answer is that it’s true, they do look similar. Both are mind-body exercises usually done on a mat. And they both feature very specific breathing techniques and exercise movements. But, Yoga and Pilates are based on very different philosophies.

Yoga has existed for at least 2000 years in east Asia, primarily in India. This original form of Yoga includes both physical and spiritual elements. However, Hatha Yoga" is what most Americans are familiar with. Hatha is the more physical style that's featured most often in gyms and on exercise DVDs.

Yoga has hundreds of positions and movements called "poses." These are the visually descriptive terms you're probably familiar with —  like "chair, "triangle" or "warrior". These exercises tend to emphasize flexibility and openness. They usually include a distinct breath focus — matching individual movements with deep breaths. The motions are often linked together in pre-planned sequences or "vinyasas." When these vinyasas are performed at a fast pace, the style is called "Power Yoga."

Pilates, on the other hand, is much younger. It was developed in the 1920's by Joseph Pilates as a rehabilitation technique for dancers. While Pilates does improve flexibility, it primarily focuses on core strength. Pilates achieves its benefits by concentrating on a series of movement patterns that emphasize total-body lengthening and strengthening with a strong focus on stabilization, spinal alignment and core strength.

In fact, the underlying Pilates philosophy is that all movements start from the abdomen. Therefore, a strong core is required to strengthen the entire body. Pilates also encourages proper postural alignment within each movement. This strengthens and promotes good posture. Pilates breathing, which  emphasizes maximum oxygen intake, focuses on expansion of the ribcage. At the end of each exhale, you'll usually contract all the muscles of the "lower" abs and pelvic floor. This supports the spine during all movements and actively works the core and spine stabilizers during each breath. Many people feel Pilates is more comparable to strength-training than Yoga, especially when practiced on the Reformer.

Bottom line — both fitness techniques provide a great foundation to round out your workout routine.  Integrating at least one mind-body activity into your week is a healthy and effective addition to traditional cardio and strength-training activities.