Yoga or Pilates?

[Itsallanadventure]

Does anyone have any experience of either of these? I am looking for an additional activity to help build core strength and flexibility.

[beatasthma]

Hi, I do a yoga class which I find really helps flexibility. Also it has put me much more in tune with my body so I can feel tightening of muscles and try to exercise to counteract that.

I think either should help though. A friend of mine is a chiropractor and always expounds the need for improving core strength, she does pliates....and pole dancing (which doesn't really take my fancy but also helps core strength and flexibility apparently). Give both a try and see which you prefer.

[doggymum Graduate]

I currently do pilates once a week and I have really noticed how much my core strength and flexibility have increased since I have been doing it. It has also helped to tone my wobbly bits a little as well. I have been doing it for about 4 months with a friend after our zumba class. Some of the exercises can be quite hard, especially to start with, but I guess it's all about testing yourself ~ like C25K. Although our instructor always gives the group different levels of most exercises so there is a level all participants can achieve. I tried yoga many moons ago, but I can't remember it being as good as this for strength, but it was great for flexibilty & balance. I would say to give pilates a go

Happy stretching

[tygfuz Graduate]

Im thinking about doing pilates and a core exercise group. I asked a community sports organiser who is a runner about it. He says it is very good for core muscles and can help to run faster.

[sfb350 Graduate]

I do a yoga class once a week - it's very good for core strength, balance and flexibility. Great for de-stressing after work too ! I would quite like to try pilates too but can't really fit it all in !

I think it's probably worth trying both to see which you prefer.

[Oldgirl Graduate]

I've done pilates for over 12 years now. Twice a week, one class using big exercise ball the other class is mat pilates. I swear by it for improving main body core strength and helping flexibility. It also helps improve breathing as I'm asthamtic. You can progress to use heavy weighted balls, stretch bands and foam rollers.

I also do aqua gym and swimming which is also a good mix along with the running.

[tilly1 Graduate]

I've done both yoga and pilates, I prefer pilates. It's great for core strength and works your body within its natural range of movement, while learning how to maintain correct postural alignment.