At Pilates 580 in Oakland, California, you can practice both yoga and Pilates with caring, knowledgeable, and dedicated instructors. No matter what type of experience you have, one thing is for sure—you always hear “yoga” and “Pilates” being grouped together! These practices are, in fact, very different from each other. Below, the experts at Pilates 580 explain these differences.

• History: Over 5,000 years ago, the practice of yoga began in India. Since then, yoga has evolved so much, making its way to the West. Traditionally, there are eight limbs of yoga, many having to do with meditation, ways to treat yourself, and ways to treat others. The third limb of yoga is “asana,” which is what you do in yoga class: Stretch and strengthen your body into shapes. Pilates, however, is so much newer to the world. Athlete Joseph Pilates formed the practice in the mid-20^th century, and his goal was to help people rehabilitate and strengthen their bodies.

• Personal Growth: Pilates does honor the mind/body connection, but yoga adds a very special element to its practice: Exploring the spirit. While yoga is not a religion, it is a philosophy, and through this philosophy, yoga encourages tremendous spiritual and personal growth.

• Class Routine: Many yoga classes (excluding Ashtanga and Bikram) are sequenced by the instructor and explore a different flow every single time. Pilates classes, however, offer more structure, and you will most likely have solid expectations when beginning each class.

Pilates and yoga will help you become stronger and more flexible; however, they are two very different practices. Now that you know about their differences, which one is right for you? The only way to truly find out is to try them yourself! 

Pilates 580 is a yoga and Pilates studio in Oakland, and their dedicated teachers cannot wait to meet you! To learn more about how you can transform your body and mind with these innovative practices, visit Pilates 580 online, on Facebook, or call (510) 338-3932 today.