Pilates vs. Yoga: What’s the Difference?

It’s a question I get all the time:
“Is Pilates like yoga?”

Short answer? They’re similar in some ways - but they’re definitely not the same. Both pilates and yoga are mind-body practices. They both invite you to slow down, connect with your breath, and move with purpose. They can both help you build strength, release stress, and feel more at home in your body.

But beyond those similarities, they come from very different roots, focus on different things, and offer completely unique experiences once you're on the mat. One is deeply spiritual and rooted in ancient tradition; the other is modern, practical, and rooted in the science of how we move. Even the way you breathe is different!

If you’ve ever felt unsure about which one is “right” for you - or you’ve tried one and wondered what the other is all about - this is for you. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences, so you can understand what each one offers, and maybe even feel inspired to try something new.

Yoga

Yoga is an ancient practice from India with roots going back thousands of years. It’s not just movement - it’s a whole philosophy that includes breathwork (pranayama), meditation, energy awareness, and sometimes even chanting.

The physical side of yoga (asana) focuses on flexibility, balance, and calming the mind through stillness and flow. Depending on the style (think: Vinyasa, Hatha, Yin), a yoga class can be anything from deeply relaxing to quite dynamic and sweaty.

Yoga is often about finding stillness in discomfort, releasing tension, and creating space in the body and mind.

Pilates

Pilates was created much more recently - in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates. It was designed to help people move better, heal from injury, and build strength from the inside out.

Pilates focuses heavily on core strength, stability, posture, and control. It’s often slower and more precise than yoga, with an emphasis on alignment, spinal mobility, and small, deep movements that build lasting strength.

There’s no spiritual aspect to pilates - it’s very practical, very physical, and incredibly effective if your goals include moving better, standing taller, or feeling stronger.

The Perfect Pair

While Pilates and yoga are different in their focus and origins, they actually make a beautiful duo when included together in a balanced fitness routine.

Pilates gives you strength, precision, and control - especially through your deep core muscles, posture, and alignment. It helps you move better in everything you do, whether that’s lifting heavy things, running, dancing, or just getting through the day with less tension and more ease.

Yoga gives you space, stillness, and softness. It opens up the areas Pilates strengthens. It helps you stretch what’s tight, slow down your thoughts, and reconnect with your breath and body in a more meditative way.

Together, they support both your structure and your softness.
You build strength and surrender. Control and flow. Energy and rest.

If you’re already doing yoga, adding a bit of Pilates can bring more stability and awareness to your poses. If you’re deep into Pilates, a gentle yoga session can help lengthen and release areas you’ve been strengthening.

You don’t have to choose just one - you can love both. And your body will thank you for it.