Pilates Vs Yoga
On a recent yoga course (more of which I’ll go into next
time) it became apparent to me of the big divide between yoga and pilates. They
get put under the same umbrella but in fact they are in completely different
seasons!
Having only done pilates a few times, mostly at The Yoga Lounge I must admit I have always
seen myself more of a yogi but I really do see the benefits of pilates every
time I do it....
The reformer class, done a machine really does get you into a
deep stretch – deeper than I thought was possible, and it gave me a great boost
of energy for the rest of the day! The pilates on the mat class was also a good stretch class and pushed me to my limit! With a little help from Nisha, the fab instructor :)
There are obviously many different types of both pilates and
yoga. Pilates is a much newer invention with yoga having a deeper and more
spiritual history, sometimes with meditation included. Pilates classes have
always seemed more structured to me, focussing on the spine and core, whereas
the yoga I’ve done gives me an all over body workout and stretch.
One thing they don’t seem to agree on is the
breath – breathing in and out through the nose in most yoga classes but through
the mouth in pilates.... Although a yoga class I teach asks you to focus on your breath
but allow yourself to breath freely, so whatever feels natural and most
relaxing!
Having tried Bikram in the past, I wanted to give another
type of hot yoga a go so I went back to the Yoga Lounge where they do a great
60 minute class. Although it’s a shorter class than Bikram, Janes class
definitely worked me as much and felt more flowing than a structured Bikram
session. I do definitely see the benefits of both though....
All I would say in the minefield of yoga and pilates is to
try as many different types and style of both as you can and make your own
decision on what you like. You don’t need to choose one over the other, I see
the benefits of both and will continue to deepen my knowledge and skills of
both :)
This starts next weekend as I’m off to the OM yoga show in
Manchester – they are kindly giving away 5 pairs of tickets to flex readers! All you need to do is like our Facebook page then let me know your favourite
yoga pose and why!
Also Nisha (who formerly instructed at the Yoga Lounge) would
like to let you readers know about a retreat she is running – one course has
just finished this week but get in there early for the next one in November!
It’s a rustic yoga/pilates retreat in the Hacienda, Spain
for just £299 per person based on 2 sharing. 4 days/3 nights, full board plus
yoga and pilates classes :) Maybe see you there....
