Yoga and pilates may seem to be one in the same to a lot of Americans. However, there are some basic differences.

There are some similarities between yoga and pilates, notably that they both work towards sculpting the body and increasing flexibility. Neither exercise will work the heart or lungs like a cardiovascular workout will, but they both add to an overall state of mental and physical wellbeing. Yoga and pilates are so similar that they’re often fused together in workout videos and yoga pilates classes across America, although it’s sort of a Western fusion. In India, yoga is something entirely different than the German-created pilates.

Clear differences between yoga and pilates include some of the following: First, yoga is an ancient Indian practice that dates back approximately 5,000 years, whereas pilates is an adaptation of yoga dating back eighty years to a German athlete, Joseph Pilate. Secondly, in addition to physical activity, yoga is an entire holistic program that encompasses diet, meditation, breathing techniques, religious edict and a moral code; Pilates is simply a form of exercise and body sculpting technique. Thirdly, yoga aims to unite mind and body, as well as cleanse the body of toxins, while pilates is fashioned to strengthen, define and improve posture. Additionally, in yoga, you are taught to inhale and exhale through the nose, whereas pilates employs the traditional athletic mode of breathing in through the nose and out through the mouth while performing an action. Lastly, yoga can generally be done with just a mat (although sometimes props are used), while instructors ensure everyone’s in proper form; pilates, on the other hand, has specific machinery designed to assist practitioners.

Yoga and pilates classes can be found at most athletic clubs (check PilateInsight.com or YogaFinder.com for complete directories). Different yoga classes may include: Vinyasa yoga, Hatha yoga, Anusara yoga, prenatal yoga, meditation yoga, yoga in the workplace or Iyengar yoga. Some examples of different pilates yoga classes offered include: group mat class, group reformer class, private sessions, pilates with props, pilates for specific conditions, pregnancy pilates, pilates for sports and hybrid pilates.

It may surprise you to learn that Yoga dates back to 3300-1700 B.C.E. and has long been a practice of Buddhists, Hindus and other Eastern religions. But what should not be surprising the tremendous benefits that this form of exercise and meditation can bring to your life. Working professionals, students, home-makers and the retired alike are finding how wonderful they feel after participating. The sense of calm that prevails as well as the satisfaction of muscles well worked all make Yoga the perfect blend of philosophy, religion and exercise. Even if you do not practice the spiritual aspects of this ancient practice, you can still benefit. Click here to see more: Yoga Certification and at Benefits Of Yoga also at Yoga Retreat

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