Physical activity refers to any way of moving the body that generates positive changes in physical and mental well-being.. For years, experts have been advising that practicing a sport or physical practice has multiple benefits for the body, and that it is also one of the fundamental pillars for leading a healthy life and extending life expectancy. What are the two practices that help restore physical and mental balance?.
Low impact activities are highly recommended, for both men and women of any age. These types of practices are those that involve smooth and controlled movements, generating less impact on the joints and muscles. As a consequence, it is possible to obtain all the benefits of physical activity while minimizing the risks. In addition, they are excellent allies for enjoying good mental health.
Two highly recommended low-impact activities are yoga and pilates, which in recent years have become quite popular due to their multiple benefits for the body and mind. For this reason, it is essential to know what yoga is, what Pilates is and why they are such good options to start a new physical activity. What are the differences between yoga and pilates and what benefits do they have.
What is yoga and what benefits does it have?
Yoga is a physical, mental and spiritual discipline that emerged in India thousands of years ago.. Scientific studies have shown that practicing yoga regularly has incredible effects on the body and mind, since Balance, coordination, flexibility and strength are worked on as well as breathing techniques, which help reduce levels of stress, anxiety and depression.. There are different types of yoga, from the gentlest yoga to other much more dynamic styles.
Benefits of yoga
- Improves joint mobility
- Improves flexibility
- Increases muscle strength
- Improves body posture
- Prevents and reduces muscle pain, both in the lower back, upper back and neck.
- Reduces stress, anxiety and depression
- It is an activity mindfulnessas it helps to maintain focus for a long time on each movement of the body
- Promotes relaxation of the central nervous system and emotional well-being
- Provides mental clarity
- It enhances sleep quality
- Reduces chronic pain
- Improves heart health
- Promotes conscious and healthy breathing
What is Pilates and what benefits does it have?
Pilates is an exercise system developed by Joseph Pilates in the 1920s to rehabilitate wounded soldiers of World War I.. Later, it was used in ballet as training for professional dancers. He pilates It also has multiple benefits on physical and mental health, since promotes balance, strength, coordination, control, precision and healthy breathing. There are different types of Pilates, but its fundamental axis is that it focuses on the muscles in the center of the body (abdomen, back and glutes). It is an excellent option for those who want to achieve a slim, strong and toned body.
Benefits of pilates
- Increases muscle strength
- Improves coordination, control and precision of movements
- Promotes conscious and healthy breathing
- Tones the body, especially the core muscles
- Improves body posture
- Reduces upper, lower and cervical back pain
- Increases flexibility
- Prevents injuries and rehabilitates the body after an injury
- Promotes relaxation of the central nervous system
- Reduces stress and anxiety levels
