When Yoga Meets Pilates

Blended fitness classes make sense for some...
By: Helen Vanderburg , For the Calgary Herald

The blend of the two fitness disciplines, yoga and pilates, is becoming increasingly popular.

Both are sophisticated systems of integrative exercise with a lot in common. They both focus on alignment, strength, flexibility, control and breath.

Pilates, developed by Joseph Pilates, focuses on a systematic approach to exercise with a strong focus on core training. The philosophy of pilates is quality of movement rather than the traditional fitness approach of quantity of exercise.
Yoga, on the other hand, is practised in many different ways, from meditative yoga to very physical approaches such as Ashtanga yoga. Typically, the blended yoga and pilates classes are designed to be a flowing style of class that is more physical in nature.

Although pilates and yoga may seem similar, they are also very different, and it is in the differences that they complement each other so well. In both cases, these two practices will increase strength, balance and flexibility in the body. There is also a strong emphasis on breath control and the use of breathing patterns to enhance movement and health in general. Both practices are associated with stress reduction and increased well-being through focus and concentration.

This modern approach fuses the two practices in a complementary manner. For example, the focus on core stability and strength from pilates work can assist in yoga postures, and the flexibility training in yoga can assist in the pilates exercises.

Pilates mat classes are done on the floor and the addition of the yoga standing and balance postures give you a total body workout. For me, this blended format makes good sense, as it is a time-efficient means of getting the benefits of both pilates and yoga.

The class will typically start with a warm-up, including sun salutations and range of motion activities, followed by standing and floor postures and exercises, finishing with stretching and relaxation.

As a teacher of this style of class, I find there are endless possibilities for variety and modification to the traditional forms. Admittedly I'm not much of a traditionalist, so this really works for me.

Who would like it?

If you are new to yoga and pilates, this may be a great way to introduce them into your wellness program. The blended program will give you a taste of both yoga and pilates. As well, if you have limited time in your busy life, you will find the blended classes to be a great option. In a one-hour class, you can get the benefit of pilates core conditioning and yoga strength, balance and flexibility. Working full time and having two young children, I find this is the only way I can fit both of these great systems of training into my life.

Who wouldn't like it?

If you are devoted to either yoga or pilates, you may not like this approach.

While the blended classes are valid and can enhance your fitness level, they are both very complex disciplines and require a great deal of practice. As this modern approach is not true to either practice, you may wish to study them separately. As well, if you are practising either of these two methods for reasons other than the physical benefits, the blended format may not be for you.

The learning curve

Both pilates and yoga take time to master. In fact, the more you do this type of training, the more challenging it becomes. Initially, you will be focused on how to do the posture and the exercises. As you begin to master them, you will find they will become more challenging. The class is taught in a slow and mindful manner, giving you time to make the exercise or posture feel right for your body. Participants with a variety fitness and experience levels can be successful in this class.

The gear

Wear comfortable clothes that allow you to move freely. A pair of fitness or yoga pants and a T-shirt or fitness top are ideal. The only equipment you will need is a fitness mat.

The sweat factor

Depending on the class or program you choose, you will definitely work up a sweat. The exercises and postures will train strength, balance and flexibility. However, keep in mind that these classes are not cardiovascular in nature. I would recommend that you also complement this type of training with cardiovascular activity such as walking, running, swimming or fitness classes.


My Reaction:
I am really hundred percent agreeable with this article and always remember no pain no gain, no guts no glory, if there's a will there's a way, so really...