While the term “[tag]yoga[/tag]” is well known to one and all, the term “[tag]Pilates[/tag] (read Pul-la-tees)” even now remains ambiguous to many, and therefore a combination of both Yoga and Pilates sounds quite interesting.

A yoga-pilates class is open to all, irrespective of the age group. As far as Pilates is concerned, the muscles of the lower back and abdomen are the “powerhouse” that supports the spine and keeps the body well balanced. It is a favorite among gymnasts and dancers as it aims at building leaner and longer bodies, rather than muscle mass.

Pilates includes infinite styles, and several practitioners these days are ready to club it with yoga. The nature of these stretches greatly complements each other with both involving focused breathing patterns and follows gentle and controlled movements that aim in bringing forth harmony and peace.

However, while on the one hand yoga is about taking a posture and holding it for a few minutes, Pilates on the other, is about accuracy of repeated movements and doesn’t focus on any particular final position.

So a class that combines Pilates and yoga, vary from one instructor to the other. While a few of them start with [tag]yoga postures[/tag] and switch over to Pilates half way, the others keep the two completely separated.

While [tag]yoga asanas[/tag] warm up the body, spine and chest muscles, Pilates is based on flexibility.  So the stretch from yoga can be kept up with Pilates, is the opinion of few other instructors.

However, for both Pilates and Yoga, one need not be dependant on a studio or a trainer for ever, and the routine can be performed anywhere. The goal behind such a combination class of yoga and Pilates, is to improve body functioning, strengthen the spine, improve flexibility and relax the mind. The class usually concludes with a Shavasana.