A History of Yoga and Pilates

Yoga and pilates may seem to be one in the same to a lot of Americans. However, there are some basic differences.

Yoga and pilates are often lumped together as one. They both compliment a normal exercise routine by sculpting the body and improving strength, flexibility and coordination. They both involve stretching, slow deliberate and repetitive motions, regulated breathing processes and establishing an overall sense of wellbeing. In a fast-paced society full of various athletes, strength training and weight machines are an American pastime in many gyms. Therefore, many modern Western instructors and athletic trainers work pilates into their yoga practice to change things up a bit.

Clear differences between yoga and pilates include some of the following: First, yoga is an ancient Indian practice that dates back approximately 5,000 years, whereas pilates is an adaptation of yoga dating back eighty years to a German athlete, Joseph Pilate. Secondly, in addition to physical activity, yoga is an entire holistic program that encompasses diet, meditation, breathing techniques, religious edict and a moral code; Pilates is simply a form of exercise and body sculpting technique. Thirdly, yoga aims to unite mind and body, as well as cleanse the body of toxins, while pilates is fashioned to strengthen, define and improve posture. Additionally, in yoga, you are taught to inhale and exhale through the nose, whereas pilates employs the traditional athletic mode of breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth while performing an action. Lastly, yoga can generally be done with just a mat (although sometimes props are used), while instructors ensure everyone’s in proper form; pilates, on the other hand, has specific machinery designed to assist practitioners.

Advanced students of yoga and pilates will find it advantageous to visit a yoga center or fitness club to further their goals and study. Mentoring and working with advanced equipment can really expedite body sculpting or enlightenment, depending on what is being actively sought. For beginners who are unsure if they’re willing to commit just yet, there are a multitude of pilates and yoga videos to try at home. A couple of recommended pilates videos are: Denise Austin - Hit The Spot, Jennifer Kries - Pilates Method, Karen Voight - Core Essentials, Pilates For Dummies and Kathy Smith - Pilates For Abs. A couple of recommended yoga videos are: Basic Yoga Workout For Dummies, Living Yoga - AM/PM, Ali Macgraw Yoga Mind & Body, Shiva Rea - Yoga Shakti and Kundalini Yoga: With Grace and Strength.

There are many different forms of Yoga that people around the world practice. Some use it primarily for its low-impact workout whereas others love the feel of meditation and concentration required in some of the many poses. Yoga is a great way for those suffering from injury or unused to a cardiovascular workout to begin their path to becoming physically and mentally fit. Exercise is an important part of our daily lives and the added benefit of learning relaxation techniques is enough to entice anyone onto a mat. Find your relaxation and work out by clicking here for more information: Yoga Supplies and at Yoga For Kids also at Yoga Sandals