So, youre wondering about Pilates vs. yoga: Whats the difference, really?

These low-impact workouts are also equally popular for cross-training and boast impressive mind-body benefits.

Tying to decide whether you should do yoga or Pilates first?

Pilates vs. yoga illustration

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Wondering which is better for beginners?

Or do you just want to know which would best complement the workouts youre already doing?

Keep reading before you dive in addingnew yoga pantsto cart.

We spoke to instructors certified in both practices for the full lowdown on Pilates vs. yoga.

What is Pilates?

To understand the difference between yoga and Pilates, its helpful to go back to their origins.

What is the Powerhouse?

Think shoulder to shoulder,hip to hip.

for workout gear company Bala.

What are the physical benefits of Pilates?

What is yoga?

Because of this, you may hear both Sanskrit and English names in a yoga class.

(For example, savasana is also known as corpse pose.)

What are the physical benefits of yoga?

It should come as no surprise that a major benefit of yoga is flexibility.

you’re free to also increase strength and become more toned from yoga too.

Youre doing a tricep push-up sometimes in a flow class 50 times.

Pilates vs. yoga: What are the key differences?

Again, the main difference between the two goes back to their origins.

The main difference is that yoga is a spiritual practice, says Brandenberg.

In Pilates, its really about that Powerhouse.

If youre really trying to decide, Pilates vs. yoga?

What do yoga and Pilates have in common?

If that sounds a lot like yoga, youre not wrong.

Both share a lot of the core principles.

Those are big ways that theyre similar.

The emphasis on deep breathing techniques also makes them both meditative and stress-relieving workouts.

In other words, theyre great for all ages.

With both practices, theres such a great benefit off your mat, McGee adds.

Should I do yoga or Pilates first?

Yoga is a little bit more accessible for someone brand-new, says Brandenberg.

Its something you gotta invest in, Brandenberg says.

There are lots ofYouTube workoutsavailable for free.

Can I do both Pilates and yoga?

All the instructors recommend doing so to reap the unique benefits of each.

Plus, youll likely find doing one makes you better at the other.

The two are really complementary to each other.

Kylie Gilbert is a writer and editor based in New York City.