Yoga versus pilates: choose what’s good for you

Picking a fitness regime can be tough, considering the choices that we have today from boxing and karate to yoga. Hitting the gym frequently might get boring, and a change is always welcome. So if you’re into intensive workout, you can try yoga or pilates for a relaxed experience. While both of them look quite similar, they’re actually different. And, with both the methods also gaining extreme popularity, it’s important to know the difference between the two.

Yoga

Originating in India, yoga is all about asanas (specific body poses) in addition to mediation. It’s a perfect combination of maintaining your mental and physical health. It’s often attributed to spirituality and is looked upon as a way of lifestyle. Yoga also includes taking care of specific elements in your diet and is an effective way to stay relaxed throughout the day. A lot of people take it up for treating depression and anxiety, because breathing exercises form a major part of yoga. You don’t need a lot of equipment for yoga. Just some will power and a yoga mat.

Pilates

Pilates is centred around core-strengthening exercises apart from working on your back. Muscle- strengthening and controlled breathing are two major factors that are typical of pilates. Resistance training helps in enhancing your flexibility and posture. It’s known to be quite effective for people with arthritis, back pain and joint pain, according to Pinkvilla. For people looking for exercises to recover from injuries, pilates is a great option. It includes simple exercises that stretch your muscles and get them going without straining them. You can improve your stability and balance through pilates. For pilates, you need dedication and a trainer in addition to equipment like magic circles and weights.