Page 133 - South Mississippi Living - June, 2025

So, how are they similar? Both are low-impact and emphasize proper alignment, breath control, and mental focus. They’re often recommended for stress reduction, injury recovery, and general well-being. And both are easily adapted to suit a wide range of ages and fitness levels.
But the differences are what might guide your choice. Yoga typically includes a wider variety of poses and sequences, and many styles incorporate mindfulness or even spiritual elements. Pilates is more structured and tends to focus more on small, controlled movements, especially targeting your core.
When it comes to targeted strength development and rehabilitation, Pilates often has the edge. Some doctors even recommend it for patients recovering from injuries or dealing with persistent pain. The precision of the movements in this practice make it effective for rebuilding specific muscle groups.
If stress relief is what you’re after, yoga might be your better bet. Yoga’s meditative elements can be incredibly valuable for those dealing with a lot of stress.
The good news is that you can’t go wrong with either! Yoga will increase flexibility, improve balance, and reduce stress. It can also aid sleep and support cardiovascular health. Pilates will improve posture, relieve back pain, and build deep abdominal strength.
If you're dealing with a specific health concern, one practice might work better as a starting point. For example, someone dealing with back pain might benefit from beginning with gentle Pilates to build supporting muscles before moving on to yoga's more flowing movements.
Think about what you love doing. Are you an avid kayaker or paddleboarder? Pilates might give you the core strength to prevent back strain.
Do you spend your off time on the golf course? Yoga’s rotational stretches could help improve your swing.
I recommend you try them both. Most studios offer introductory packages that let you get a feel for the different styles and approaches. And sometimes, if you ask nicely, they’ll let you try for free!
It’s pretty simple – the best practice for you is the one you’ll stick with! And many people don’t choose; they incorporate both practices, using Pilates for targeted strengthening and yoga for flexibility and mental well-being.
Many studios on the Coast offer a blend of yoga and Pilates classes, giving you the best of both worlds. After all, when it comes to your health, it’s not about picking sides – it’s about finding what works best for you.
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