…
Since I started living in Hove, I have tried a few Reformer Pilates classes as there are so many Pilates studios in the Brighton area.
It’s made me think about some of the similarities between Pilates Reformer classes and One to one Yoga.
They are both popular practices that focus on physical and mental well-being, often leading to comparisons between the two.
Despite their different origins and philosophies, they share several similarities.
Many of us may have tried mat based Pilates, taught in gym settings or church halls, taught in large groups. This is a bit different to these new Pilates studios, which use a large wood & metal machine known as a Pilates reformer.
When I teach my one to one students I like to look at their core strength. Not all yoga teachers do this, but it is also the key to Pilates. Focussing on the core, whether in yoga or Pilates classes not only improves physical strength but also promotes better posture and alignment.
Flexibility is another common benefit. Both disciplines include exercises that increase flexibility and range of motion. In a group class it’s possible to ‘go through the motions’ and not be sure whether you are really enhancing your flexibility, strength, and control. I attended six Pilates classes that had 12 reformer machines in one room; it was not possible for the teacher to monitor all of our movements. I felt like I needed extra help to find out whether or not I was working correctly. Only one of the 6 teachers offered me hands on adjustments.
I also tried a one to one Pilates reformer session, and found it made a big difference. Both yoga and Pilates taught one to one can be adapted to different fitness levels and goals. Whether someone is seeking rehabilitation, or strength building, both practices offer a variety of modifications to meet individual needs, but they are most effective if taught to just one individual at a time.
The holistic nature of yoga can be especially beneficial for those seeking stress relief, improved mental health, and a deeper mind-body connection. Because it’s personalised, one-to-one yoga can be adapted for all levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners, making it an excellent choice for those with specific goals or physical limitations.
Both Pilates Reformer classes and One to one Yoga, when taught individually, by an experienced teacher, can help to increase muscle tone, correct posture, or recover from an injury. The resistance provided by the Reformer can be adjusted, just as yoga poses can be modified using props carefully. It is important to remember that Yoga is a spiritual practice, which adds deep layers of interest that are not found in Pilates.
Personally, I feel I really benefit from the various breathing and relaxation techniques taught in Yoga, which do not feature in Pilates.
Ultimately, the choice between one-to-one yoga and Reformer Pilates depends on your individual goals. If you’re looking for a holistic, mind-body experience with a focus on flexibility and mental wellness, yoga might be the right fit. You can read more about the private yoga sessions I teach in this blog https://annamacedoyoga.com/one-to-one-private-yoga-classes-in-hove/ https://annamacedoyoga.com/one-to-one-private-yoga-classes-in-hove/
