Yoga and Pilates go hand in hand, but are there any differences between these two popular activities? They share a lot of the same characteristics, such as the focus on developing movement and flexibility. Both practices are designed to improve posture, breathing control and increase strength and endurance by targeting specific muscles.

What makes both yoga and Pilates popular is that they don’t require specialized equipment or outfits. You need comfortable, breathable clothes and mats for performing exercises on the floor for both of these.

Workout beginners might think they could use the same mats for both practices. Sure, they look almost the same. But that’s one factor making the difference between these two practices. Read about others on this page.

Mat Size

Different brands of sports equipment offer exercising pads of various sizes. While this factor is not crucial to shopping, it’s good to know that Pilates pads are generally wider than those for yoga. That may not have much of an impact on just doing the exercises. Still, due to rolling and lying on the back, Pilates practitioners need more space.

Difference in Thickness

Yoga mats can be made in different thicknesses, as there are many types of this practice, and they differ in performing. Also, the level of your physical condition will affect the choice of equipment. Seasoned yogis have better posture and balance, so they can work out on thinner surfaces. Thicker models are better for therapeutic purposes, as they provide better padding.

Performing the exercises in these two techniques is what makes the difference. In yoga, many postures can be performed while standing. Pilates is more about rolling around on the back or tailbone. Plus, it includes props. That’s why Pilates mats are thick to provide firm support.

Thick yoga pads usually give more stability to your body and help those doing vinyasa, power yoga, hot yoga, and others. These can be a good fit for Pilates exercises too, while the thin ones are not the best choice.

Due to working out in a lying or sitting position, the mat suffers constant pressure. A thicker surface will do, but it won’t be of much use if it’s soft. You have to buy at least ¼ inch model for Pilates, so your bony body parts won’t feel uncomfortable on a hard floor. You can check some mat reviews online like the one in Pilates mats Ireland if you want to know more about the different types of mats.

Material Density

When considering using a yoga mat for Pilates, the point is not just to choose a thicker model because it will provide better support. The density of the material should also be considered. Thicker, not so dense mats will be comfortable but will not provide adequate support and padding during Pilates exercises.

On the other hand, dense materials like PVC or rubber are the right choice for Pilates. PVC molds will not separate, so the mat will not become crumbly after a while. These can be used to perform yoga but are recommended for experienced practitioners to provide adequate support when performing more complex and demanding exercises.

While Pilates beginners should workout on firmer surfaces, advanced practitioners can also try more cushioned mats. As they try to maintain balance in a standing position when performing the exercises, the body activates more muscles. So the results of exercising itself can be better.

Texture

The texture of the mat itself is not of great importance for performing the Pilates exercises. It means more when it comes to the comfort of exercisers, which can be an individual thing. Some likes when the mat is padded; others don’t enjoy it. The more textured the surface is, it will be less slippery.

The coarse exercising surface is important in some types of yoga because the practitioners can sweat a lot, and doing exercises on a damp mat bass is not pleasant. Pilates is not known as cardio activity, so the chances of dripping in sweat at the end of the class are minimal. So you are free to choose smooth exercising surface.

On the next page, find a useful buyers guide for workout mats:

https://www.verywellfit.com/pilates-exercise-mat-buyers-guide-2704341

Choosing the right exercise equipment can make a big difference. Whether you are a newbie or doing Pilates for a while, you should always consider the safety and comfort of performing the exercises. With the right mat, your Pilates classes will be a real pleasure.