The Physical Education and Sports Center is offering a new course that integrates the disciplines of Pilates and yoga. Below is some background information explaining how Yogalates combines the benefits of strength and stretching.
Pilates and Yoga
Looking at these two forms of exercise in a general way, Pilates focuses more on strength and hatha yoga focuses more on stretching. There are certainly exceptions to this statement, as Pilates does include stretching — in fact, Pilates is known for creating length in the body — and doing yoga does develop strength. The difference is emphasis.
Many people are finding that the core strength and integration they develop in Pilates support them well in the daily activities and cross training they engage in. For those who also do yoga, Pilates gives them the stability that they need to control and expand their yoga poses safely. Conversely, the expansive stretching in yoga provides a wonderful balance to the typically more core-oriented Pilates exercises.
And let’s not overlook that fact that though Pilates and yoga do share some exercises, for the most part the exercises in the two disciplines are different. Further, while yoga uses some props, Pilates incorporates a huge number of movements that are done on large pieces of equipment.
Benefits of Yogalates
The benefits of Pilates and yoga are extraordinary. They are both known to support the development of long, strong, graceful bodies that move efficiently, without creating bulky muscles. Both disciplines are integrative and associated with stress reduction and increased well-being. Both yoga and Pilates are used as rehabilitative systems. They can be adjusted for a wide range of people and fitness levels, and both support the achievement of very high levels of body/mind/spirit fitness.
Days and Times: Monday 4:40-5:30 p.m.; Wednesday 3:40-4:30 p.m.
Fee: Free of charge
Registration: Dormitories Sports Hall
For more information: Ahsen Bilen ahsen@bilkent.edu.tr