Yoga and Pilates enthusiasts tout their workouts with upmost enthusiasm, boasting about the life-changing physical and mental benefits. So, what is so special about these techniques that we hear and see so much about? What are the similarities and differences between Yoga and Pilates, and how can you get the best of both worlds? Read on to find out.
Yoga is an ancient Eastern practice that harnesses the power of the mind, body and spirit, with meditating, relaxing and flexibility being the main focus. In practicing Yoga, you move from one static pose to another, enhancing strength, stamina, flexibility, balance and mental clarity. Through developing a conscious awareness of the body, mind, breath and life force (prana), Yoga has the ability to be deeply relaxing and health enhancing.
Pilates, on the other hand, was invented by Joseph Pilates in the early 1900s as a way to build strength in the postural muscles and prevent injury. In Pilates class, strengthening the core is the main objective. Each pose is combined with movements of the limbs, improving spinal flexibility, posture and alignment. Pilates is known globally as a system of muscular skeletal exercises that augment sporting activities, assist in injury rehabilitation and supports those with back problems through re-educating the body’s postural muscles to create a very safe and strong foundation for movement.
Although yoga and pilates have basic fundamental differences, they tend to complement each other, and that is where Yogalates comes in offering a middle ground, combining the best of both by fusing principles of core stability with the foundation of Yoga Therapy. It infuses a spiritual aspect that is the core of yoga class but not present in pilates class, yet concentrates on strengthening the core as in pilates class. While Yoga movements feel great for the body, the poses can be complex and challenging so we tune into Pilates for pelvic and spinal stability towards a healthier and safer practice. By fusing the best of both worlds, Yogalates supports the health of the human mind, body and spirit. Clients receive a double dose of core work as they transition in and out of poses.
Yogalates is also an ever evolving method which embraces the latest research and methodology on functional movement, back care and exercise therapeutics. It is suitable for all ages and is a very safe and accessible method making it ideal for sufferers of back pain, arthritis, and osteoporosis and is particularly beneficial for post natal women. As an exercise model, it is excellent for developing general tone and fitness, while also encouraging a connection with self to soothe the nervous system, release stress, aid relaxation and overall wellbeing especially living in a fast paced working environment.
It's also a fantastic complement and cross-training exercise to implement into your athletic regime. As an athlete, you may come to a standstill with your performance level and injuries may rise from over exertion. By improving the deep core system and lengthening the hard worked muscles, you will bounce back healthier and safely into your current training repertoire.
A regular session will include Yoga poses (asana) to build strength, stamina, stability and flexibility with strong emphasis on building tone in the deeper postural “core” muscles. These protect the spine against injury, support the internal organs and improve pelvic and spinal awareness to promote good posture.
While Yoga and Pilates classes bring about great benefits individually, it is a great fusion that works your body from the inside out!
YOGALATES SESSIONS:
*MONDAY & WEDNESDAY MORNING // 8:30 AM - 9:30 AM //
*MONDAY & WEDNESDAY EVENING // 7:15 PM - 8:15 PM //
VENUE: Fraser Suites (Sidra Tower) on Sheikh Zayed Road next to Gems Wellington School and located on Al Sufouh 1. A short 8 minute drive away from The Greens and Media City.