Yogalates™, also called Yogilates, is a type of physical activity that combines both Hatha yoga and Pilates into one discipline. The original Yogalates™ was developed by Jonathan Urla in 1997. Today, many different yoga and Pilates instructors have created unique versions of this activity. Still, the basic premise of Yogalates™ remains the same.
When Urla first invented Yogalates™, his intention was to add certain Pilates movements to the Hatha Yoga discipline. Pilates, first developed in Germany by Joseph Pilates, is based upon the notion that a person's core muscles, or inner-abdominal muscles, are the most important part of the human body. Therefore, Pilates focuses upon core muscle movements. Hatha Yoga is an ancient yogic study that was created in India during the 15th Century.
Combined, Pilates and Hatha Yoga produce a type of exercise that is heavily reliant upon deep breathing and the use of core muscles. Most Yogalates™ courses last for approximately seventy-five minutes, and these courses are often held in fitness centers or yoga studios. Many instructors play soothing music as students move through a complex series of floor exercises. As students become more disciplined, standing exercises are incorporated into a regular Yogalates™ routine. In some parts of the world, specialized Yogalates™ studios may also exist.
Since deep-breathing is a large part of any Yogalates™ session, meditative breathing is frequently a large part of any class. Students are taught to breathe deeply and properly from the start of any course, and this breathing becomes intensified as a course progresses. This type of fusion exercise is frequently referred to as "low-impact" exercise, which makes it a good choice for both younger people and seniors.
Many athletes participate in Yogalates™ in order to build muscles, since combining Pilates and Hatha Yoga is a wise way to build muscular strength. Combining muscular training with the specific breathing techniques that are taught by qualified teachers provides an excellent foundation for many sports and other strenuous activities.
Yogilates™ courses can be found by searching for local studios on the Internet, or by phoning a local exercise center. Before beginning any type of exercise program, it is important to consult with a medical doctor. Even though this is a relatively safe exercise, some people may find this type of exercise strenuous. Participating in a course of this kind is beneficial to one's health, though it is important to seek out a qualified, and certified, instructor.