Yogalates is not a new kind of coffee drink. It's a hybrid exercise that combines yoga and Pilates techniques. The fitness methods share some similarities, but while combo classes may be fun, yoga and Pilates are based on different sets of principles. Those who practice these techniques in their pure form adhere to specific guidelines.
History
The word "yoga" means "union," which implies a physical, mental and spiritual connection. The American Yoga Association speculates that yoga practice began about 5,000 years ago. Centuries later, in 1883, a boy named Joseph Pilates was born in Dusseldorf, Germany. Pilates was not a natural athlete. In fact, he developed his exercise method as a means of overcoming his many physical limitations. Pilates studied yoga as well as ancient Greek and Roman fitness regimens. He combined these methods to create an exercise technique that turned him into an athlete. Pilates called his technique "contrology." In his writings, he described his method as a body, mind and spirit "trinity."
Features
Both yoga and Pilates use mindful, controlled movements. While both have a spiritual component, Pilates is not associated with any type of religion, whereas some yoga participants practice yoga in connection with Eastern spiritual traditions. Yoga and Pilates exercises feature controlled, relaxed movement with fluid transitions, but Pilates movements are continuous, whereas yoga postures are held. Breathing also plays a key role in both exercise methods, but yoga uses a deep abdominal breathing method that distends the belly during inhalation. In an article on the Pilates Pro website, therapist Sherri Betz of the TheraPilates Physical Therapy and Gyrotonic Studio describes the difference between between yoga and Pilates breathing. She explains that instructors advise their Pilates students to keep their abdominal muscles contracted and practice lateral breathing in the ribcage. This practice, called costal breathing, encourages active core support in all Pilates exercises.
Functional Differences
Both techniques enhance strength, flexibility and coordination. Yoga, which holds static stretches, focuses on static flexibility, which is flexibility without movement. Pilates, with its constant movement, enhances dynamic flexibility, or flexibility in motion. Flexibility, and in some cases, spiritual enlightenment, are yoga's primary goals, whereas Pilates emphasizes strength, muscle tone and coordination.
Expert Insight
An April 2008 "U.S. News & World Report" article detailed the balance benefits of yoga and Pilates. Author Matthew Shulman described a study performed at Temple University's School of Podiatric Medicine on yoga practice and balance. The researchers found that Iyengar yoga practice, which uses ropes, belts and cushions, improved balance and prevented falls in people over 65. Shulman also interviewed Debra Rose, co-director of the Fall Prevention Center of Excellence at the University of Southern California, who challenged these findings. Rose argued that while yoga's static postures may enhance balance while the individual is standing still, Pilates, with its dynamic hip, leg and core strengthening exercises, enables participants to adjust their gait if they lose their balance while walking or performing tasks.
Considerations
Exercise choices should always include goals, lifestyle and muscle condition. People with tighter muscle groups might benefit from yoga, whereas people with excessive flexibility and minimal strength can enhance joint stability and muscle tone with Pilates training.
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