Pilates or yoga: Which trend sport is better?

Pilates or yoga? Vogue reveals which sport suits you better.

In the world of sports, there are two particularly popular sports right now: Pilates and yoga . Although the results, such as a strengthened core and more defined muscles, are similar, there are some differences in practice.

Which workout is better for you and your needs depends on several factors. So, if you're considering whether to do Downward Dog five days a week or invest in a 10-class Pilates card, consider the following.

Yoga vs. Pilates: The key differences

To find the right sport for you, it is important to first know the differences between Pilates and yoga.

Training type

The main difference between Pilates and yoga is the movements. Compared to Pilates, yoga is a slower-paced workout where you hold certain poses for longer, explains Dr. Melissa Leber , director of sports medicine in the emergency department at Mount Sinai Health System in New York. Pilates, on the other hand, is done at a faster pace and focuses on the repetition of low-impact exercises to develop core strength.

The goal of yoga is holistic movement and harmonizing the body with the mind. The focus is on good balance, relaxation, and breath control. Pilates, on the other hand, has the overarching goal of strengthening the so-called "powerhouse," or core, of the body. This is intended to improve posture, flexibility, control, and precision of movement.

breathing

While breathing plays a role in both sports, it's performed differently. In yoga, for example, there's Ujjayi breathing, where you inhale and exhale through your nose and slightly constrict your larynx. In Pilates, the focus is on rib breathing, also called lateral breathing. This is supposed to help keep the abdominal muscles stable.

Accesories

In addition to the obligatory yoga mat, there are other accessories for yoga that are used in the studio depending on your ability. Yoga blocks, straps, blankets, and special pillows, for example, are among the equipment required. Pilates, on the other hand, often includes special devices such as a reformer sled or the reformer Cadillac to increase resistance or provide support during certain exercises.

Mental part

The focus on the connection between body and mind is much more prominent in yoga than in Pilates. It's aboutmeditation , spirituality, and improving mental well-being. In a Pilates class, the mental aspect is more functional, as the exercises often require a high level of concentration.

Similarities between yoga and Pilates

Despite the differences mentioned above, there are also some similarities that the two sports share:

Connection between body and mind

Both sports combine physical movement with mental concentration in various ways. Breath is therefore an integral part of every exercise in both, as it connects mind and body.

Posture and core muscles are trained

Both Pilates and yoga improve posture, alignment, and body awareness. Core muscles, such as the abdominal and back muscles, are also particularly effectively targeted in both sports.

Joint-friendly training

Since Pilates and yoga involve controlled, slow movements with little impact (no jumping, etc.), the muscles can be strengthened, which in turn stabilizes and relieves pressure on the joints.

Flexibility is improved

Muscle stretching and range of motion are increased not only in yoga but also in Pilates. The flowing movements and gentle stretches loosen muscles, tendons, and fascia, which can help prevent muscular and joint injuries.

What makes Pilates special?

Dr. Melissa Leber describes Pilates as a low-impact form of exercise that focuses on the back muscles and a strong core. This is achieved through various movements on a mat or on a reformer sled.

The Pilates exercises , based on slow, controlled, small movements, were invented by the German circus artist and boxer Joseph Pilates . "Pilates has great health benefits because it's a form of strength training that uses your own body weight as resistance," says Dr. Leber. This helps prevent injuries and cure chronic pain.