How long to feel the physical benefits of Pilates/yoga?

[Newhouse76]

I've just joined a yoga/pilates centre after a one month introductory offer. I plan to go to pilates 3 times a week and yoga if I can fit it in.

I am quite slim but very weak - can't touch my toes, can't sit up smoothly from lying down and a health assessment at work has indicated that my core muscles are very weak.

How long would it take for me to feel stronger after doing pilates 3 times a week? My sister suggested 5 months but that seems very long!

I've loved the relaxing elements of yoga in the past but have decided to focus on pilates as it feels more painful so I'm guessing it's doing more for my body. Is that right?

I think you will start feeling a difference in 1-2 months, especially in your tummy and arms but also in your legs and back.

I went back to yoga after many years because of a joint problem, but noticed in a few months that my arms got slimmer & have muscle definition, and (most surprising) my posture has significantly improved and my back is now straight. I have also lost a ton of weight in the past year.

How "painful" yoga feels depends a lot on the type of yoga you do. Something like Hatha will be more on the relaxing side, while Vinyasa and Ashtanga will give you a real workout and leave you sweating.

Pilates is great, too. Much of it is quite similar to yoga, from which it is derived of course. The important thing is to find a practice that you like, one that you will want to continue with.