How yoga and Pilates complement each other
1. breathing & mindfulness
In yoga, the focus is on conscious breathing ("pranayama") - it calms the nervous system and helps you to let go. Pilates, on the other hand, uses breathing to actively support muscle development and core stability. Together, the two practices promote healthy, deep breathing, which both energizes and relieves stress.
2. strengthening & flexibility
Pilates specifically trains the core of the body (powerhouse) - abdomen, back and pelvic floor. These muscles are the basis for posture, balance and protection of the spine. Yoga, on the other hand, opens up the body, improves flexibility and stretches muscles and fascia. Combining the two gives you the perfect balance of strength and flexibility.
3. body awareness
We all spend a lot of time sitting down. Pilates specifically builds the postural muscles, yoga trains self-awareness - so you develop a better sense of alignment, balance and posture in everyday life.
4. well-being
Yoga has a meditative component: Asanas, breathing exercises and meditation have a calming effect and create inner clarity. Pilates brings energy, dynamism and a certain lightness to the workout. In this way, Pilates and yoga enthusiasts experience a holistic balance of body and mind.
Differences between yoga and Pilates
Anyone who knows the differences will understand even better why the two work so powerfully together. Even though the two practices complement each other wonderfully, there are clear differences:
- Origin: Yoga has its roots in India and is a millennia-old philosophy that connects body, mind and soul. Pilates was developed by Joseph Pilates at the beginning of the 20th century - originally as a rehabilitation method.
- Focus: Pilates focuses strongly on strengthening the core (powerhouse). Yoga works with asanas, breathing techniques and meditation for flexibility and mindfulness.
- Training goal: While Pilates provides visible strength and stability, yoga offers more space for inner peace, flexibility and balance.
How often to combine yoga and Pilates?
Many people wonder how the two forms of exercise best fit into everyday life. There is no "right" or "wrong" way, but a rule of thumb can help:
- 2-3 sessions of Pilates per week will strengthen your core and noticeably improve your posture.
- 1-2 yoga sessions complement the training with stretching, relaxation and mental balance.
If you're short on time, you can also combine short routines - for example, a 30-minute Pilates workout followed by 10 minutes of gentle yoga to finish. This allows you to stay flexible and find your own rhythm - regardless of whether you prefer to work out in studios, at home or online.
The right clothes for yoga & Pilates
Good fitness clothing and activewear are supportive for both forms of training.
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Leggings are ideal because they follow every movement and do not slip. They should be breathable and elastic. With well-fitting leggings, you can concentrate fully on the exercises.
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Tops or sports bras offer support without constricting. Many women love tops with a support bra as they don't have to wear a bra. In Pilates and yoga, where many exercises are performed in a prone position or with twisting movements, tight-fitting clothing is more comfortable and functional than wide cuts.
Are you still looking for suitable clothing for yoga and Pilates? With us you will find Pilates clothing and yoga outfits - sustainable, fair and with a perfect fit.
