NoExcusesGym

 Yoga and Pilates. Two types of floor exercise that involve stretching and core muscles work, right?

While yoga and Pilates do share certain characteristics, there are important differences. Figuring out how each can benefit you first requires understanding their differences and how they compare to a basic stretching program.

A logical place to start is where all three exercises intersect: increasing flexibility through stretching the muscles and connective tissues. A solid stretching routine, however, stops there.

Stretching is the most limited exercise of the three, says Elizabeth Larkam, a certified Pilates instructor and spokesperson for the American Council on Exercise.

 “Pilates encompasses stretching but also focuses on strengthening the muscles that support the spine, pelvis and shoulder area,” she says. “Yoga encompasses stretching, but also strives to create a balance between the mind, body, and spirit.”

Mind trains body

The Pilates program was developed in the 1920s by Joseph Pilates (puh-LAH-teez), who created a set of exercises for injury rehabilitation using apparatus with springs.

Pilates focuses on strengthening the body’s core, or the abdominal and back muscles, by developing pelvic stability and abdominal control. Participants will feel increased support of their spines as they stand taller and their lower abdominal areas flatten, Larkam says.

Merging philosophy, meditation and healing

While the Pilates program is less than 100 years old, yoga was born about 5,000 years ago as a philosophy and evolved into a meditative and healing art. Yoga means union, or the union of the mind, body, and spirit.

Although eight different forms of yoga exist, most classes in the United States focus on Hatha yoga, which is the yoga of physical postures. These postures, called asanas, are designed to work on all the bodily systems, tone the muscles, stimulate the circulation and improve overall health.

Yoga also emphasizes awareness of the breath to reinforce the postures, and teaches participants to breath through their noses and deep into the lungs.

As you master the postures, breathing and relaxation techniques, you’ll benefit from a calm mind, increased ability to concentrate, and less stress and tension. The meditative aspects of yoga may also help transform body image issues, fears, or negative emotions into energizing, positive thoughts. Power yoga will also strenghten your muscles.

Combine your Pilates and yoga with healthy eating and some cardio workout (walking) for the weight loss, better spirit and posture.

source: nubella

(by Marcela Vanharova)