LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, February 14, 2005: Yoga and Pilates may be the fitness world’s most popular couple. Men and women are flocking to both exercise disciplines as classes, studios, books and DVDs appear; there’s even a hybrid called Yogalates that blends the best of both worlds, says this Los Angeles Times article. Pilates is a strength and conditioning system done with mat work and apparatus. Yoga and Pilates are considered mind-body exercises, meaning that one should be mentally engaged while doing the physical work. Both employ breathing techniques. Both incorporate resistance for toning muscles. Both are used therapeutically. Both are slow, intense routines that can be done through classes or one-on-one training. And both can produce lean, toned bodies.
Pilates is a series of regimented exercises that focus on using the core muscles of the trunk. Its roots date back to the early 20th century when Joseph Pilates developed a system (adapting some yoga techniques) to help rehabilitate hospital patients during World War I; years later dancers adopted it as physical therapy. Regimented exercises done with controlled breathing can be performed on apparatus or a mat. The desired results are stronger core muscles, better posture and stability, overall toning and increased flexibility. And although healthy living is often emphasized in Pilates, “you could be drinking a Pepsi while you’re doing it,” says Ralph La Forge, an exercise physiologist and spokesman for the American college of Sports Medicine.
La Forge separates the two this way: “If I were an athlete and I wanted better function, I’d go with Pilates,” he says. “If someone has physical performance goals, those have to do with good posture and strong abdominal muscles. Pilates is more about musculoskeletal health.” Yoga, however, would be his choice “if someone needed to change their lifestyle, if there are overall health and lifestyle goals–someone who has had their first heart attack or has high blood pressure or diabetes.” How yoga and Pilates are used therapeutically supports La Forge’s beliefs. Yoga therapy is incorporated in rehab programs for diseases and chronic conditions to help manage symptoms and improve quality of life. Pilates in a physical therapy setting helps people bounce back from injuries. For more on the benefits of both disciplines, click on “source” above.
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