Aerobics, Pilates, and Yoga

Aerobics, Pilates and yoga are all aerobic/cardio exercises that use little-to-no equipment. Each is a specialized and stylized method of achieving a healthy lifestyle.

Aerobics is considered old-school these days, having been developed by Dr. Kenneth Cooper in his 1968 book, “Aerobics”. First created for astronauts, aerobics is usually practiced in a group setting, led by an instructor, and accompanied by some kind of music. Though less stylized and trendy as yoga or Pilates aerobics is still considered one of the best cardio exercises out there.

Pilates is named for its creator, Joseph Pilates. Pilates principles center on strengthening the core muscles of the body, smooth movements between several different muscle groups, and integrated breathing for efficiency and maximum cardio benefits.

Athletes and dancers enjoy the long, lean muscles achieved with Pilates exercises. Since no muscles are overtrained or undertrained by Pilates, all muscles are equally protected from injury.

Official Pilates literature recommends taking a lesson or two from licensed instructors before attempting to do Pilates at home. The Pilates people advise the exercises and integrated breathing is best explained in person and with someone who can correct techniques.

Yoga is originally an Indian spiritual mind/body technique originating more than 5,000 years ago. Yoga has a lot of different meanings and styles of practice. Yoga as an exercise, though, reached the mainstream here in the “west” around 1990.

Yoga is easy to learn and the benefits are quickly evident. Its stylized way of teaching the mind, muscles, heart and lungs to work together feels good, looks good and is a big reason for the increased popularity of yoga as an effective exercise.

Yoga as an exercise is composed of a series of poses, or “asanas” that flow together to create the workout. Hatha yoga is what is practiced for health by most Westerners. In Ashtanga style, the poses change quickly. This style is not for beginners. Ananda style is a gentle, classical form of hatha yoga.

The best way to get started with yoga is to visit several different types of beginner classes and then choose the one you feel best about.

 

 

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