Wanting to find ways to stay active while balancing university and work, I decided to try out both Pilates and Yoga at Impact Physio to see which suited me best.
Pilates at Impact
I was fortunate enough to join in a Level 1 small-group class led by Sally. As a second-year physio student, I’m always looking to deepen my understanding of movement.
I could tell Sally really knew what she was doing. We were all given individual adaptations to make each exercise achievable, either making it easier or harder. I was given key pointers and little changes that made me feel the exercise so much more, at the end of the session I really felt I’d got the most out of every movement.
I think if you want to see if Pilates is for you then I would encourage you to do it at Impact, it is so different to joining in a large class or one thats just pushing you, which isn’t what Pilates is all about.
In my previous experience, joining a new class can be daunting, however at Impact, they offer a 1:1 Pilates session for new participants. During the introductory session you will be assessed and put in at the right level, ensuring you’re confident and getting the most out of your sessions.
Yoga at Impact
Curious to see how yoga would compare to my Pilates experience at Impact, I attended a class led by Mariangela – and it did not disappoint. Mariangela’s background includes over 15 years of teaching Hatha and Lyengar yoga methods.
With a maximum of six participants in each class, it was easy to receive individual attention and modifications when needed. The session itself blended gentle flow, alignment-based poses, breath awareness and relaxation. As someone familiar with yoga but also accustomed to Pilates’ precision and control, I found this class offered a refreshing blend of alignment, breath work and mindful movement. It complemented my interest in body mechanics while still bringing a softer, more holistic focus on flexibility, ease, posture and stress-release.
The class is very adaptable. Even with previous yoga experience, I appreciated the way Mariangela offered variations and encouraged awareness of how each pose should feel in the body. I left feeling more balanced, more relaxed and noticeably more connected to my posture after a full day of studying. For anyone, either new or experienced to yoga, Mariangela’s class offers a supportive, thoughtful, and accessible introduction to mindful movement.
What’s the difference?
Yoga and Pilates both focus on mindful movement, breathing, and feeling good in your body, but they each offer something a little different in my experience.
For me yoga focuses on flexibility, gentle flowing movements, and grounding techniques like breath work. Classes usually involve holding poses, moving smoothly between them, and building balance and calm. When I need to relax, loosen up, or just clear my head — especially during exam season — yoga is usually what I go for.
Pilates in my opinion focuses on control and strength. The movements are small, precise, and really target your core and posture. You can do it on the mat or with equipment which help you work on deeper stabilising muscles. Pilates focuses on alignment and using your “powerhouse,” to control each movement. When I want to feel stronger, or just feel more supported through my day, Pilates is normally my first choice.
Choosing what’s right for you;
Both practices complement each other beautifully and there’s so much overlap in their benefits. Many people find a blend works best, as each offer something unique.
No matter which path you choose, I have really enjoyed trying these practices out at Impact. They provide a supportive, high-quality environment that makes either choice — or a combination of the two — a worthwhile investment in your wellbeing.
Impact have new classes starting in the New Year – if you’re ready to try it out then contact them now.