Yoga Classes for Seniors: How Yoga Differs From Pilates
I admit that I am starting to get up there in age. And as I do, I am growing more appreciative of physical activity that helps keep me limber and moving. I was recently reminded of the need for exercise by an announcement for yoga classes in our community clubhouse. Right next to it was an announcement for pilates. Being the curious man I am, I wondered what the difference was.
The first thing I learned through my research is that both yoga and pilates are pretty popular among seniors looking to stay fit without putting in five miles per day on the treadmill. Both are good forms of exercise and offer opportunities to socialize with others. But at their core are two different philosophies.
Core Focus
Yoga is an ancient practice that combines the physical and spiritual. While it is possible to separate the two, leaving the spiritual aspects out of it, most yoga practitioners embrace at least the basic spiritual principles.
Also worth noting is that yoga emphasizes the mind-body connection along with physical attributes like flexibility and balance. Yoga encourages breathwork, meditation, and even a principle known as body scanning.
Again, it is possible to practice yoga without adopting the spiritual principles. But if you are going to do that, you might just as well embrace pilates instead. You get the same benefits of moderate exercise without the things that some people find uncomfortable about yoga.
Pilates’ core focus is building strength and muscular endurance. It relies heavily on good posture and controlled, repetitive movements. Some experts liken pilates to a form of exercise built around a rehabilitative approach. It is exercise without the mindfulness that so often accompanies yoga.
Yoga Goes Beyond the Physical
Seniors looking to do more than stay active might find themselves drawn to yoga because it goes beyond the physical. For example, yoga nidra expert and international yoga educator Scott Moore explains that most forms of yoga place a heavy emphasis on relaxation.
The deep relaxation yoga nidra promotes goes beyond the physical sensation. It is also about becoming more self-aware. It’s about reducing anxiety, eliminating stress, and being mindful of what is happening in the moment.
The mindfulness aspect of yoga is believed to help practitioners become more self-aware without judgment. A practical example would be coming to terms with the physical limits that come with age. Being somewhat limited is neither good nor bad. It simply is. This acceptance of limits could help an older person lead a more fulfilling life.
Pilates Remains in the Physical Realm
By contrast, pilates remain within the physical realm. That’s not a bad thing. Regular exercise that focuses on strength and conditioning contributes to better health as a person ages. There are emotional and mental benefits that come with it. Good physical health can help an older person feel better emotionally. Good health can encourage an older person to adopt a wellbeing mindset.
Pilates’ physical benefits can also contribute to a better quality of life. When it does, participants get more out of life with each passing day. They are happier, more fulfilled, and more engaged with friends and family.
Something for Me to Think About
As I grow older, how I maintain an active lifestyle is something I will have to think about. Perhaps yoga is in my future. Or I might find that pilates are more my speed. One thing I can say for sure is that both types of classes are now available in my community. I could most likely benefit by enrolling in one or both.
