Combining Yoga, Pilates, & Cardio

Current exercise trends can seem intimidating to some when contemplating re-engaging with exercise after a break from it. As Pilates and Yoga Instructors we obviously advocate what we teach. However, as dancers and advocates of modern science we also recognise that Pilates and/or Yoga on their own are not enough. The human body needs its cardiovascular capacity challenged on a regular basis to maintain good heart health and to keep our inner organs functioning well. Yoga and Pilates are exceptional disciplines for generating and maintaining a good relationship with our body. We believe yoga and Pilates really come into their own when used together, combined with a good knowledge of release work, alongside a chosen cardiovascular activity to suit your body.

The NHS recommends 150 minutes of moderate activity per week, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity.  Moderate activity is between 50-70% of your max heat rate, and vigorous activity is 70-85%.  To work out your max heart rate you just subtract your age from 220.  Your resting heart rate should be between 60-100 beats per minute.  You can check this by taking your pulse just before you get out of be in the morning.  It is useful to understand these figures when contemplating cardiovascular activity.  However, some of us just want to get out there and enjoy moving.  That is fine too! 

Either way, we feel that bespoke stretching and muscle conditioning programmes, such as what yoga and Pilates offer, are incredibly complimentary not only to one another, but also to cardiovascular activity.  And, of course, cardiovascular activity is also complimentary to Pilates and Yoga.  We would go a step further by suggesting that your choice of cardiovascular activity is very well placed to prescribe what you do in Pilates and Yoga if you know how to use them skilfully.  This is just our experience of working with our own, and our client’s, bodies.   Let us know what your thoughts are.  We are always interested in hearing from other instructors or practitioners about what works for them.  As we hope our sharing does here, it all contributes to a richer understanding of best practice.