Yoga and Pilates "Cheat Sheet"

Yoga

Yoga is a form of exercise that connects the mind and body, incorporating a series of breathing exercises that guide you through various movements of the body. Yoga is a no to low impact and is comprised of over a few dozen different varieties. Benefits of yoga include:

• Improves balance, and flexibility and builds strength
• Promotes muscle relaxation and de-stresses the mind
• Reduces pain and inflammation in the body
• Increases circulation

Consider adding yoga into your routine with one of these workout examples!

Pilates

Pilates is a minimal-impact form of exercise that involves synchronizing breath with movement, focusing specifically on increasing the strength and flexibility of our core muscles that support the spine. Pilates can involve the use of equipment or no equipment at all, making it a versatile exercise option. Studies have shown Pilates can help with:

• Boosting endorphins (our feel-good hormones)
• Increasing serotonin (which helps to combat depression)
• Controlling our synchronized breathing helps to evoke a calmer sense of emotion vs a heightened sense of emotion.
• Improving flexibility, balance, and It is often a go-to exercise for physical therapy and widely used by athletes for crossing training to prevent and reduce injuries.

Check out these workout examples!

Examples of workouts combining both Yoga and Pilates, often called Yogalates!

Additional Resources:

• Fitness Blender
• Senior Shape
• Silver Sneakers