Although apparently there can be several women’s exercises to be chosen from these days, these two are by far the most famous of them all. Mostly gaining reputation from the celebs that does them, yoga and Pilates has become at one point, the most commonly used trainings by the feminine side especially in the United States.

Though many feel they have more likeness than dissimilarity, in reality, these two workouts have a big difference it can make or break your decision (if you have already made one). It’s time to review the two.

Definition

Yoga – The word "yoga" comes from the Sanskrit root word "yuj" meaning "to unite" or "to integrate". Yoga therefore, is the process of being in a harmonious relationship with the inner self and the environment. To do this, the "yogi" (the individual who executes the yoga) balances his intelligence, physique, and soul in the form of exercise, breathing, and meditation bringing about a stress-free and peaceful body and mind.

Pilates – Coined after its founder, Joseph H. Pilates, "Pilates" is the kind of training that concentrates on core conditioning and body shaping through the use of a mind-body strategy. Simply put, Pilates functions using the mental aspect to master the physical motions of the person doing it. Subsequently, practitioners acquire flexibility, agility, and gracefulness towards moving their own body.

Background

Yoga – Dating back to over 5000 years ago, yoga is an ancient form of discipline that originated from India. The earliest remains of yoga being in existence include the stone seals unearthed from the Indus Valleys which illustrated yoga positions.

Pilates – Developed in the early twentieth century by a self-defense teacher, Joseph Pilates strongly believed that exercise could treat diseases. With this perception he modified hospital beds to make his patients perform resistance activities that later on resulted in his more effective equipment designs. He then lived in the United States and opened his very own fitness studio and trained many students his system.

Approach

Yoga – Mind-body-spirit approach. Yoga is aimed at these three principal structures, intellect, which controls the movement of the human body for it to do exercises along with proper breathing to ready the mind for meditation (relaxed mind-set) so an individual can be relieved of tension and will be cleansed with nothing but positive energy.

Pilates – Mind-body approach. As previously mentioned, Pilates utilizes the mind to have power over the body thus resulting to a more effective and economical movement.

Practice

Yoga – Utilizes a yoga mat. This particular exercise can be done in groups, commonly in a yoga class with the help of a qualified yoga trainer. It's generally inexpensive in terms of the usage of apparatus.

Pilates – Utilizes biomechanically designed apparatus. To mention some: reformers, barrels, Cadillacs, stability chairs, and matwork products including pilates mats and pilates edge.

And, that's it. It is important to take time to gain information about yoga and Pilates workouts before finally deciding on which one to pick. This will enable you to determine which fits your way of life best, amongst others - and when you finally do, be sure to have all the fun doing it.