Can You Do Yoga And Pilates On The Same Day?

Most people think Yoga and Pilates are the same. As a practicing yogi for years, I have to say that they are not. Although both practices apply movement patterns and breathing as therapy, they also have many differences. You will also know if, can you do yoga and Pilates on the same day and if there are benefits. This article will let you learn the similarities and differences between yoga and Pilates. If you just started working out and are wondering which practice to choose, don’t worry too much yet, and read on.

Differences Between Yoga and Pilates

Before we can answer the question, “Can you do yoga and Pilates on the same day?” let us see first the differences and similarities between yoga and Pilates.

Yoga-inspired most exercises in Pilates, Joseph Pilates, founder of Pilates, said that much. However, there are many key differences between the two. Here are some of the differences between yoga and Pilates:

• Yoga focuses on increasing strength and flexibility of the upper body, especially your spine and your limbs. Pilates, on the other hand, focuses on core or abdominal strength first, then overall flexibility.
• Yoga starts with the concentration on breathing, then deepens to the pose. Pilates, on the other hand, starts with the concentration on movement from the core to your arms and legs.
• The primary goal of yoga is to stay connected with your breathing. In Pilates, the primary goal is precision of movement, then linking such to your breathing.
• The breathing patterns in yoga varies depending on what practice you do. In Asana, breathing is either ujjayi (smooth breathing) or kapalabhati (rapid breathing), which are both to induce heat to the body. The breathing pattern in Pilates is usually slow, controlled, and diaphragmatic.
• Most exercises in yoga are done standing, letting gravity work with you. In Pilates, on the other hand, most exercises are done lying down on the stomach, on the back, or the sides.

Here are some health benefits of doing yoga:

• Getting Flexible
• Correct Posture
• Mental Health

Similarities Between Yoga and Pilates

Now that you know the differences, let us immediately see the similarities between the two:

• Yoga and Pilates are both mind-body forms of exercise, cultivating awareness between mind and body.
• Yoga and Pilates focus on movement and the experience of movement and not the end goal, a stronger body, and a more peaceful mind.
• Yoga and Pilates focus on the present rather than the outcome.
• Yoga and pilates use mats-based exercises to tone the muscles using body weight. Pilates has the option to include an apparatus to perform some exercises.
• Yoga and Pilates improve oxygen circulation throughout the body.

Can You Do Yoga and Pilates Together?

Now, let us answer the question. So, can you do yoga and Pilates on the same day? Of course, you can! If you take into consideration the many similarities of yoga and Pilates, you can even say both practices complement each other. I, for one, believe that what the other lacks, the other can make up for it. Combining the two practices even allows you the choice and freedom to attend to different muscle groups neglected when only practicing yoga or Pilates. We all know that a healthy balance is the key to life! So surely, doing both will not hurt. Try it and be surprised by the many things the human body can do.

Benefits of Doing Yoga and Pilates Together

There are various benefits to doing yoga and Pilates together. Here are a few of the benefits of doing both at the same time:

• You understand the physical connection between movement and relaxation.
• You learn how to incorporate movement patterns to build your proper physical alignment.
• You combat your mental health problems.
• You surely feel stronger and feel sore less.
• You learn new breathing techniques by combining both practices and get amazing results.

Doing yoga and Pilates together have great health benefits. Not only will you have a stronger core and body strength, but you will also feel stronger and powerful, and have a more peaceful and calmer mind.

Conclusion

If somebody asks you the question, “Can you do yoga and Pilates on the same day?” you finally know what to tell them! Remember, even if yoga and Pilates have many similarities and differences, what is important is that you can use both to achieve better awareness with your mind and body. You can reach goals that practicing with only one can never do. Always keep in mind that you do not have to wonder why some people prefer yoga from Pilates or vice versa. Both have their advantages, and both have unique benefits that you can surely enjoy.

Learn how safe it is to do yoga and have a worry-free exercise!