Many yoga practitioners chant and meditate at the beginning and end of a session. This is to create focus, dedication, and appreciation for the art. Pilates, which is much more modern, does not embrace this particular element. It's a more calculated form of exercise that aims to strengthen and heal the body with specific moves and specific goals.
So which do you choose? Pilates or Yoga? Well, are you looking to de-stress and calm your mind? If the answer is yes, then yoga is for you. If you are only interested in strengthening your core muscles and back muscles, Pilates is your answer.