Pair Your Yoga With Pilates

Some people use the term “yoga pilates” to refer to a yoga or a Pilates exercise class, or to a unique class that combines elements of both activities. In fact, yoga and pilates are two distinct, though similar, forms of exercise. Both are easy on the joints, and they can improve your flexibility and strength. But Pilates is a form of exercise developed in the 1920s by Joseph Pilates as a way to build strength and prevent injuries, while yoga is a traditional exercise dating back thousands of years.

There’s no reason why you can’t practice both Pilates and yoga. When comparing Pilates vs. yoga, you’ll find that many of the exercises are similar. For example, pigeon pose (eka pada rajakapotasana), a yoga pose that opens the hips, can be found in Pilates routines. And yoga and Pilates also complement each other. Pilates has a slightly greater emphasis on core strength, and some people may find that they can build strength in Pilates that translates to an ability to reach more advances poses in yoga.

If you are curious about "yoga pilates" and there is not a class available in your area, check out a Pilates DVD. As with yoga, you can find Pilates workouts designed for specific medical conditions or parts of the body, such as the back or abs. If you are new to Pilates, check out the Pilates Beginning Mat Workout DVD. In this DVD, available from Gaiam, certified instructor Ana Caban explains the principles and correct form for Pilates exercises. And when you are ready to advance, check out the Pilates Intermediate Mat Workout DVD.