Is Yoga Or Pilates Better For You?

For the longest time, yoga was all the rage until Pilates came along and stole the show. A favorite of health nuts around the world, famous and not, yoga and Pilates both have loads of benefits from weight loss to improved heart health, but which one is best for you? Essentially, the answer in the Pilates vs yoga debate largely depends on one thing: what you’re trying to achieve.

If you're trying to lose weight

Trying to lose weight? Then yoga is probably your best bet. One study showed that people who practiced yoga regularly gained less weight and were less likely to be obese than those who didn’t.

Yoga and Pilates each burn around 145 calories in 60 minutes, but you might want to consider adding a more intense activity, such as jogging (a 30-minute run burns an impressive 200 calories) to your workout regimen if you really want to drop the pounds.

MUST READ: Fight Cellulite With Yoga

If you want to improve your heart health

As far as heart health goes, yoga and Pilates provide little cardio benefit unless it’s an advanced class, which in that case can bring your heart rate up.

What are the other benefits?

Some other benefits? Yoga and Pilates help to improve your body strength and flexibility, slow down the aging process, increase posture, promote sleep and detoxify the body. Furthermore, yoga has been proven to reduce stress hormone, cortisol, levels.

Pilates

Evidence suggests that Pilates may be beneficial for those with the following conditions:

arthritis
urinary incontinence
respiratory conditions
joint injuries
back pain

Pilates is a great option for older adults or those recovering from an injury because it involves low-impact exercises and subtle movements.

Yoga

Yoga is known to have positive effects on the following medical issues:

anxiety
depression
multiple sclerosis
arthritis
respiratory conditions
high blood pressure
chronic pain
type 2 diabetes

Things to consider before getting started

There are many forms of yoga and pilates to choose from. The biggest difference between the two is the equipment used. So, you may consider that when choosing which one is best for you. Pilates can be expensive and depending on the forms of Pilates, equipment may be mandatory.

Although Pilates can be modified, it requires proper teaching and performance of the exercises to avoid injury. Additionally, mat Pilates is great for many people, but if you have decreased mobility or poor core strength, it may be challenging for you.

If you try these workouts and begin to experience back or neck pain, or respiratory problems, try modifying your workouts.

Those who are pregnant or have other physical restrictions should consult with their doctor before trying Pilates or yoga to ensure it is safe.

In fact, it can be helpful for anyone to consult with their doctor and a certified instructor before starting any exercise program.

If you are unsure of where to start, consider taking private lessons or following a workout video before diving headfirst into a class. Private lessons can also allow you to perfect your form and/or prevent you from pushing yourself past your limits, which can lead to injury.

The bottom line is yoga is great for you but so is Pilates and there’s nothing wrong with incorporating both into your daily workout routine. Just keep in mind that yoga tends to be a go-to for stress relief and inner peace while Pilates is known for strengthening the muscle.

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