Yoga BLOG

What is Yogilates? Yogilates, as the name suggests, is a combination of yoga and Pilates . It uses body- and mind-focused exercises that are combined into a holistic approach. The goal of yoga exercises is to relax, strengthen endurance and circulatory system, and stimulate blood flow. In the following guide, you'll learn exactly what Yogilates is, how it works, what benefits you can achieve with it, and what to look out for. What is Yogilates? The yoga style was developed by Jonathan Urla . He practiced yoga himself and taught Pilates. Yogilates combines elements of yoga and Pilates. This provides a wonderful workout for the body and soul. Both can benefit significantly from the exercises. After all, Joseph Pilates, the inventor of Pilates, was also inspired by yoga when developing the training method and saw a connection between the two methods. He studied yoga teachings extensively before developing the exercises. Thus, Yogilates combines the positive effects of yoga and Pilates. This form of yoga incorporates relaxing yoga elements with the body-toning and back-strengthening Pilates exercises. The training consists of the following elements: Light warm-up exercises to prepare the body for the more demanding elements Stretching movements meditation Each class concludes with a relaxation and meditation phase. During this time, the practitioner reflects on themselves and consciously lets go. How does Yogilates work? The postures are similar to those performed in Hatha Yoga . This focuses on strength, stretching, movement control, coordination, breathing, and balance. The workout involves the entire body. The flowing movements extend to all areas of the body. The transitions between movements should be performed easily and smoothly so as not to strain the body. Another important aspect is the deep relaxation that sets in after the exercise sessions. Yogilates does not require any equipment or other props. A mat and comfortable clothing are sufficient. However, you can use exercise bands to maintain positions or provide more resistance. A practice session usually lasts 75 minutes. The exercises are often accompanied by gentle music, as this can increase the relaxing effect. What can you achieve with Yogilates? Yoga focuses on conscious breathing, inner peace, relaxation, balance, and flexibility, while Pilates can give strength, strengthen, and tone the body. Through regular practice, you can achieve physical and mental well-being. Because breathing is used consciously, you can also achieve greater stamina, serenity, and energy in everyday life. But you can also benefit on a physical level. Yogilates centers the body and gives it strength from the core and back. A strong back is fundamentally very important because it helps with walking upright, which applies both physically and mentally, and also with correcting poor posture. The muscles can become stronger and leaner, which also applies to the deeper muscles. This type of training is said to be much more lasting and effective than strength training, as the positive effects come from within. Conclusion Yogilates combines yoga and Pilates. The concept combines body- and mind-oriented exercises. The strengths of both exercise methods, which have much in common, are thus meaningfully combined. The movements originate from the center, the so-called powerhouse. With Yogilates, you can strengthen your body and achieve greater inner peace and balance. It counteracts stress and can serve as pain prevention, improves posture, builds muscle, increases performance, and generally contributes to the development of a healthy and balanced body. Newcomers should be introduced to Yogilates by a qualified teacher or trainer to avoid learning the positions incorrectly and to avoid injury. Yogilates is suitable for almost everyone, as the exercises can be performed at an intensity appropriate for the practitioner. Anyone suffering from high blood pressure, circulatory problems, or intervertebral disc problems should consult their doctor whether this style of yoga is suitable for them. Image © satyrenko / 123rf.com