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Saturday, October 28, 2006

What's The Differences And Similarities Between Pilates And Yoga?

Pilates

Hi friend,
Yeap, I have touched on the comparison of both Pilates and Yoga, I would like to share more of my understanding...........

Pilates and yoga – differences and similarities

Pilates is a type of exercise that is really gaining a toe hold in popular culture. Alongside yoga, many people are beginning to realize the merits of a low intensity, calming form of exercise. In this article, I’ll let you know some of the things that yoga shares with pilates, as well as noting differences that give the activities their own personal flair.

- Yoga was actually part of the basis of pilates! When Joseph Pilates created the program during World War I, he drew upon several influences. He studied the Greek and Roman forms of exercise, as well as focusing on his own personal studies in fitness in order to form a specialized exercise program.

- Where pilates is merely a system of exercise, yoga is more of an all-encompassing activity that is not limited to one’s exercise. While yoga does incorporate many aspects of fitness which are often used in pilates, those who practice yoga see it as more of a lifestyle than an activity. Yoga subscribers work on breathing control, maintaining a proper diet, and several other disciplines in order to find a more perfect harmony in their lives. Pilates, on the other hand, focuses almost completely on the physical aspect of the yoga activities as well as other exercises.

- Both yoga and pilates place a certain emphasis on the breathing patterns of an individual. Proper breathing is stressed by instructors in order to more properly benefit from the exercise. There is a slight difference between the two breathing methods that the differing practices recommend: in pilates, the participator is told to inhale through the nose, and exhale through the mouth. In yoga, on the other hand, breathing is only permissible in through the nose, and out through the nose.

- While both of the activities incorporate some outside tools in order to more accurately perform the exercises, yoga definitely requires more. Whereas pilates workouts may only require a pilates ball and a workout mat, yoga incorporates the usage of many different tools, including blankets, blocks, and straps in order to reach the full potential of the activity.

- The basics of yoga have been around for centuries. Yoga has been practiced over the past 5,000 years, and pilates was created 80 years ago.

- Both of the activities incorporate the same exercises and need to develop ‘the core’. The core is what pilates subscribers refer to when they speak of the abdomen, the pelvic region, and the lower back of an individual. Development in this area is tantamount for those who study pilates, but it is just a small piece of the puzzle to those involved in yoga.

Now that you can better understand the fundamental differences between these two activities, you can better decide which of them would be of the most merit to you. It’s a lot to consider – are you looking to exercise to get more in touch with yourself, or are you merely looking for a method of exercise to keep in shape? It’s a decision that only you can make, and it’s important to consider your options before subscribing to one particular program.

Ok, till we 'meet' again, stay healthy.

Cheers.


Pilates

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Wednesday, October 25, 2006

Here Are The Four Tips for the Pilates Beginner!

Pilates

Dear friend,
Now you understand those funny Pilates glossary, before you start your Pilates program, here are ................

Four Tips for the Pilates Beginner

Pilates is perhaps the most exciting and effective fitness trend to come around in a long time. Here are four tips to make your entry into the world of pilates as smooth as possible. Always consult your doctor before starting a new exercise regime.

1. Go for a group experience.
Learning pilates on your own is certainly an option, but it is much easier to get a hang of this sometimes-challenging practice if you enroll in a class.

Check out your local gym for pilates offerings. Other places to check out include your local recreation center or community college. Better yet, look for a reputable pilates studio in your area. Wherever you choose to go, make sure the pilates instructor has received adequate training and is certified by a well known health, fitness or pilates organization.

Don't be afraid to ask: your body will thank you for it later! Another place that sometimes offers pilates to the general public are local rehabilitation centers. Joining a class can help you stay committed to your pilates practice. The camaraderie of group practice can deepen your experience and make your pilates practice fun.

2. If no classes are available or it's just not for you, try out a pilates video.
Search the Internet for reviews of pilates programs. There are literally dozens of home pilates workouts to choose from, and many of these are very good.

Even if you decide that home practice works best for your schedule or circumstances, consider signing up for one or two pilates classes at your local studio or gym. This will give you a firm grounding in the practice, and will help show you how the movements should be done to ensure maximum safety and effectiveness. The guidance and help you can receive from a professional instructor can be priceless.

3. Dress comfortably and use the right accessories.
Always dress comfortably for pilates. Wearing too tight clothing or uncomfortable clothing can lead to injury. Dress as you would for yoga: loose-fitting tops and sleek yet not too tight bottoms work best.

Most pilates are practiced without shoes. Purchase a practice mat to keep your body cushioned and secure throughout your pilates workout. Refrain from using more advanced accessories until you have grasped the basics of pilates.

4. Take caution to avoid injury.
If you are not sure how to complete a specific movement, refrain from trying to do it without professional supervision. Never attempt movements that are too challenging. You should not feel pain while practicing pilates.

If you have sustained injuries in the past or suffer from back pain, you must take extra precautions to avoid further injury. Consider practicing pilates at a therapy center. Pilates is currently being offered at many wellness centers and rehabilitating clinics. Take advantage of these resources.

Pilates can be greatly beneficial to those who suffer from chronic back or neck pain, and some forms of arthritis. Discuss your condition with your doctor and check to see if you can incorporate your pilates practice into any other physical therapy that you may be receiving.

Ok, that's my sharing for today, folks, have fun with Pilates and good health.

Cheers.


Pilates

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