Basics: What's the real difference?

[anne]

I know that others on here have asked which is better Pilates or Yoga, but what I want to know is how exactly are they different. Like what are the things that solidly define them that make them different from one another. I've been trying to figure that out, but I'm still at a loss.

I know that Yoga seems to be more stretchy and medatative and pilates seems more focused on strength training using the body as a weight...at least I think it is. Yeesh I'm confused

[antoniojones1968]

Yoga is more about meditation and balance. Pilates is more about strength training.

[ChristySmiles]

One of the main differences is Yoga can be used to improve flexibility of the body and will also gradually increase the flexibility of joints. Pilates, on the other hand focuses on relaxing tense muscles and can provide strengthening of the many muscles of the body.

[jenny25]

One of the main differences is Yoga can be used to improve flexibility of the body and will also gradually increase the flexibility of joints. Pilates, on the other hand focuses on relaxing tense muscles and can provide strengthening of the many muscles of the body.

That exactly what I thought the main difference was: Yoga is about improving flexibility while Pilates is focused more on strength. Both can make you strong and flexible but how they go about doing it is entirely different. I personally think they have a lot to offer and are the perfect complement to one another.

[ffviifan]

That exactly what I thought the main difference was: Yoga is about improving flexibility while Pilates is focused more on strength. Both can make you strong and flexible but how they go about doing it is entirely different. I personally think they have a lot to offer and are the perfect complement to one another.

I agree with Jenny25, I actually think if you can incorporate both into your lifestyle you should because they'll both increase your strength and flexibility and are also realllllly good for stress relief.

[anne]

One of the main differences is Yoga can be used to improve flexibility of the body and will also gradually increase the flexibility of joints. Pilates, on the other hand focuses on relaxing tense muscles and can provide strengthening of the many muscles of the body.

Thanks Christysmiles that was the answer I was looking for. That helps my understanding of both exercises a lot and I understand now why many people tend to both :)