One of them is an ancient Hindu discipline that has been around for over 5000 years; the other was a World War One-era apparatus-based exercise regime turned 70s workout craze. But still today, no one can seem to agree on which is better: yoga or Pilates?
YOGA
Yoga dates back thousands of years, but it only really gained popularity in the Western world around the 80s. In layman’s terms, yoga is a practice of body postures, meditation and breathing control, and there are a number of different varieties of the ancient discipline, all with different focuses, intensity and methods. Almost all of these varieties, however, focus on some core principles: breathing exercises and simple meditation, and most incorporate poses and stretches to flex and strengthen different muscles. The purported benefits of yoga include improved flexibility and muscle strength, better posture, the prevention of cartilage and joint breakdown, protection of the spine, improved bone health, increased blood flow and draining of lymph fluids, and even a boost in your immunity.
PILATES
It’s often confused with yoga, but Pilates is actually totally different – with a whole other set of focuses at its core (pun intended). Like yoga there are many forms of Pilates, but the one that is closest to founder Joseph Pilates’ original studies – and arguably the most popular form of Pilates – is Reformer Pilates. In this practice, performed on a reformer machine, you use your arms and legs to push and pull against the resistance of springs, bands and the movement of the carriage. It is said that the reformer assists with improving your overall strength, flexibility, coordination and balance, which in turn leads to improvements like better posture, grace, efficient movement and – for some – relief from imbalance-associated pain, like back pain, in daily life. Other reported improvements include increased muscular endurance and core strength, improved breathing and a reduction in body fat.
WHY NOT DO BOTH?
At the Sanctuary Cove Country Club, wellbeing is celebrated in all of its many forms. With a gym, outdoor facilities including a heated 25m swimming pool and five tennis courts, specialised treatment rooms, personal training, a diverse range of group fitness classes – including both yoga and mat work Pilates, as well as Body Pump, Zumba, RPM, cardio, cycle, Rev it Up and more – and child minding options in the Kidz Club, which caters for babies and children up to ten-years-old, you don’t have to choose just one way to stay fit and healthy. You can do it all in an idyllic setting overlooking the Palms Golf Course, then refuel at Arnie’s Café & Bar on site. Sanctuary Cove Country Club memberships start from just $12.50 per week, and you can also sign up to PMP Studios – based at the Sanctuary Cove Country Club – for additional Reformer Pilates classes.
COUNTRY CLUB OPEN DAY
On Saturday March 23, the Sanctuary Cove Country Club on Gleneagles Drive will open its doors to the public, giving everyone the opportunity to experience the Sanctuary Cove difference. With free activities on offer for the whole family – including yoga on the grass, spin cycle on the verandah, and plenty of other fun, free classes – and tours of the gym and training facilities available, you can come in, look around and meet the tennis and swimming experts, massage therapists, beauticians, gym and Pilates instructors and personal trainers who will be available to you if you become a Country Club member. You can also get a free body scan on the day to see how you measure up! Make sure you stop by Arnie’s Café and Bar for a taste of the food, smoothie and juice samples straight from their new menu. Sign up on the day to win a night at any Rydges Hotel in Australia! It’s all happening from 8am ‘til 12pm.
www.sanctuarycovecountryclub.com.au