Yogas And Pilates
 
Yogas and Pilates are two of a number of exercise systems, popular in their own right, that are recognised by many martial artists as a useful supplement to training and lifestyle. One derived from ancient Indian methods of meditation as a means to attaining spiritual enlightenment, the other originally devised as a method of rehabilitation for injured soldiers, both yogas and Pilates aim for unity of body and mind, but are commonly practiced simply for the physical benefits they bring such as increased flexibility, core strength and general conditioning. Although yogas and Pilates are often practiced in a class, once the basics are understood they can be done alone without the need to remain dependent on an instructor. 
 
Yogas and Pilates can both provide a complete body workout but, with its roots in rehabilitation, the Pilates method also aims at developing greater body awareness and improving the alignment of the spine through the correction of bad postural habits. The main focus is on floor exercises with sequences of low repetition stretching and conditioning movements and constant awareness of proper breathing and posture to result in greater core strength, endurance, flexibility and coordination. Some of the positions and sequences used are based on movements from Tai Chi, with poses seen in yogas, and Pilates also has Zen meditation influences. Yogas and Pilates start with basic exercises for beginners and build up to longer sequences with advanced positions that can flow from one to the next. 
 
The most commonly practiced form of yogas in the West is the Hatha system, originally introduced as a way to purify and strengthen the body in preparation for long periods of meditation. Although it includes the moral and spiritual aspects of higher forms, the focus is mostly on controlled movements and breathing techniques based around poses known as asanas. Another popular form is Ashtanga vinyasa which is derived from Hatha. It includes more challenging asanas and focuses on synchronizing even and steady breathing with attention to posture. For each movement there is one breath. Breathing techniques are important in both yogas and Pilates, but the former teaches that breathing should be done only through the nose, while the latter is performed while inhaling through the nose and exhaling through the mouth. There are also mental benefits to be had from yogas and Pilates. Fundamental to both yogas and Pilates are deep concentration on the precise nature of the movements and posture, on correct breathing and on focusing the mind without distraction.

Click here for our recommended Hatha Yoga audio book or here for the complete Ashtanga Yoga collection.  In addition, click here for Back Care Pilates Level 1.