Prenatal Pilates versus Prenatal Yoga…what’s the difference?
It is common knowledge now that pilates and prenatal yoga offer fantastic benefits. However with so many yoga studios and pilates studios opening in London and Richmond, it can be confusing to decipher which discipline is the best fit for you during your pregnancy.
So, I am on hand to explain a bit about both prenatal pilates and prenatal yoga and to highlight the key differences between both.
Prenatal Pilates:
Prenatal Pilates primarily focuses on strengthening and stabilizing core muscles, improving posture, and increasing flexibility.
Typically this involves exercises using specialized equipment like the reformer, cadillac, and chair. These tools provide support and resistance, making them ideal for all fitness levels, including beginners.
Pilates especially reformer pilates, can be more intense than prenatal yoga, with a greater emphasis on core engagement and muscle strengthening.
The benefits of prenatal pilates
Prenatal pilates can improve core strength which is essential for supporting your growing baby and preparing for birth.
The discipline can bring awareness to one’s posture and as a result improving posture. This can then help counteract the shifts in your centre of gravity during pregnancy.
Prenatal pilates can improve range of motion in the hips and pelvis which in turn can prepare one’s body for labour.
The exercises practiced can help strengthen the muscles that support the spine which can result in reduced back pain.
Prenatal Yoga:
Prenatal Yoga emphasizes breathwork, mindfulness, and relaxation techniques alongside gentle stretches and poses.
It involves a variety of poses, including standing, seated, and lying down positions, often incorporating props like blocks and blankets for support.
In general, pregnancy yoga is gentler than pilates, with more focus on relaxation and stress reduction.
The benefits of pregnancy yoga
Pregnancy yoga can Increase range of motion and prepare one’s body for labour.
Unlike pilates, there is more emphasis on reducing stress and anxiety. For example, during my pregnancy yoga classes in Richmond, Twickenham and St Margarets, I incorporate doTerra Aromatherapy and hypnobirthing techniques to promote relaxation and mental wellbeing.
Pregnancy yoga can help alleviate common pregnancy related sleep disturbances resulting in improved sleep.
The practice can increase mindfulness and connection with one’s body and baby. During my pregnancy yoga classes for example, we focus on positive birthing affirmations to encourage a positive mindset surrounding labour and birth.
The key differences between prenatal pilates and prenatal yoga
While both prenatal pilates and prenatal yoga offer many benefits, there are some key differences between the two.
Prenatal pilates focuses more on strengthening the core muscles and improving body alignment. Conversely, pregnancy yoga focuses more on promoting relaxation and improving flexibility.
Prenatal pilates emphasises the use of the diaphragm and deep breathing techniques. On the other hand, prenatal yoga focuses on controlled breathing and pranayama techniques.
Prenatal pilates movements and exercises are more controlled and precise. Prenatal yoga tends to be more fluid and continuous.
Finally, equipment is often used during a pilates class such as a reformer while yoga can be practiced with just a yoga mat.
Which is Better for You: Pilates or Yoga?
Both!
It is important to try both pregnancy pilates and pregnancy yoga to figure out what suits your body and your schedule. Many of our mums to be who never attended a yoga class in the past, are surprised by how much they enjoy pregnancy yoga classes. Your body (and life!) are changing. What a great time to try something new!
It is important to remember that the best exercise is always the one you enjoy - because you'll actually come to class!
If you are interested in trying out one of my pregnancy yoga classes in Richmond, St Margarets or Twickenham, you can refer to my timetable below:
Hope to meet you soon!
Tríona x