Fitness, General Fitness, Pilates, Yoga
There then follows the inevitable drawn out Pinter pause followed by a long well-rehearsed discussion explaining that these two techniques are in fact very different. A passing sibling resemblance I concede. I would suggest however, more by chance than design.
I love Yoga, many Pilates teachers do. Many are indeed qualified to teach both disciplines. I however, am not, choosing instead to focus on teaching Pilates and remaining a student of Yoga. I simply enjoy fluid, strong and flexible movement taught by experienced well practiced teachers be it Yoga, dance, horse riding or Pilates. So in reality why does one person pick Pilates to learn and another person chooses Yoga? I have heard the many discussions on how Yoga is for those looking for movement (or stretching to be precise) and a greater sense of spiritual wellbeing, whilst those opting for Pilates are looking to rehab an injured back, neck, ankle, shoulder etc., or they are looking to gain flat abs with a lifted bottom- no chanting or tie dye required.
Both these perceptions both entertain me and frustrate me in equal measure, not all Yoga teachers wear Hemp, though all Pilates teachers should have good posture. Not all Pilates teachers are coordinated, either in thought or practice, many yoga teachers drink coffee, wine and eat non organic chocolate. Joseph Pilates himself had a liking for Cigars (how not to enjoy breathing) and schnapps alongside lots of exercise; he was almost 84 when he died, and active largely till the end. Both techniques are about thoughtful movement. Yoga has origins dating back 5000 years; Pilates or Contrology as it was originally called only emerged in the early 20th Century. Yoga is more than movement, combining mind, body and spiritual awareness but so can Pilates be too when understood as something that exists beyond a Gym class timetable.
So my general advice to people unsure whether Pilates or Yoga is right for them is to try both and see what fits you best. However, there are rules that apply to both. Seek out a teacher that is passionate about their subject and qualified. Long term results come from good initial investment in yourself, so opting for something because it’s convenient doesn’t always get you in the right class or with the right teacher. Don’t do just one class and decide it’s not for you, often both techniques rarely show their full benefits until you have been in regular attendance for at least ten sessions. Be clear as to what you want from the classes and teachers, preparation here is key to success. Always find a class appropriate to your experience. Advanced Pilates is definitely not going to relax you just as a meditation class is not going to build a strong core at least not in a conventional way. Whilst my passion is for Pilates, Yoga will continue to remain an affectionate companion alongside.
