Welcome to the world of Pilates! As a teacher, always remember that 50% of what you'll talk about with your client or class is directive, teaching the moves and techniques. The other 50% is educational, helping them understand why Pilates could be the right fit for them. Whether clients read this on your website or you discuss these points in person, these tips are designed to prepare them for a rewarding Pilates experience.
Understanding the Rewards of Pilates
Clients may be wondering why Pilates has gained such popularity. Simply put, Pilates is an all-encompassing workout for the body and mind. It enhances strength, boosts flexibility, and improves joint mobility. And here's the kicker: it's especially beneficial as they age. Pilates offers weight-bearing exercises that are crucial for battling conditions like osteoporosis. On top of that, the focus and concentration involved can be a great stress reliever.
Setting Pilates Goals
No matter the client's fitness level or past exercise routines, starting Pilates means they're entering foundation classes. And that's perfectly okay. What matters is identifying what they want from their Pilates journey. Maybe they're after fast, visible changes; in that case, dynamic reformer classes might be their desire. Or perhaps they're looking for more stretching and relaxation—then consider Cadillac, Tower, or classical mat classes. Aim for a minimum of two classes per week to experience tangible benefits.
Choosing the Right Studio
Advise new clients to try a series of foundation classes with you to make sure they have found the right studio for them. These classes not only teach the basics but also allow you to assess their movement, which is crucial for customising future lessons.
Mindfulness in Group Settings
In a group class, clients should be focused on their own journey rather than comparing themselves to others. Advise them to wear clothes to make them feel comfortable but also let them know more fitted clothing makes for easier form correction and for them to communicate openly if something doesn't feel right during the class.
Balanced Lifestyle Choices
Pilates is fantastic, but it shouldn’t be their only form of exercise for a complete physical transformation. Complementary exercises like walking or weight training and a balanced diet can make all the difference.
Quality Over Quantity
Encourage them if possible to look for studios that keep their classes small, and this ensures that each client gets the individual attention they need for mastering technique and form. If they are coming to you with conditions or have been referred to you it is important to take someone to one session first before coming to a group session.
No Need to Overthink
Clients don't need to be a dancer or an athlete to enjoy Pilates. The practice is adaptable to all body types and fitness levels, so there's no barrier to entry.
Integrate Pilates Into Daily Life
One of the fantastic aspects of Pilates is its principles can be integrated into daily routines. Suggest doing lunges while brushing teeth or toe raises when washing dishes.
Don’t Hold Back
Age is no barrier when it comes to Pilates. In fact, the benefits often become more pronounced as they age. Encourage them not to shy away from challenges; overcoming obstacles is how we grow and improve.
Conclusion: The Language of Pilates is Individual
Just as everybody is different, every client's experience and language for movement will
differ. What resonates with one individual may not with another. It's important to understand that the verbiage used to connect with a client might need to be adjusted based on their past experiences with movement or other forms of exercise. Being adaptable in your language is key to helping new clients feel comfortable, welcomed, and, most importantly, connected to the Pilates experience.
So, whether you're in conversation or directing a class, being attuned to each client's unique journey can greatly enrich their experience. Take the time to understand what they need and adapt accordingly. Your adaptability not only broadens your teaching skills but also opens up a world of movement and understanding for your clients. After all, the goal is to make their Pilates journey as rewarding as possible.
Hi Michael and Malcolm
I have given thought over the years as to how Pilates differs from other exercise systems.
1. Pilates is about overall movement quality - from getting out of bed to being an international athlete. I reckon that people think I am younger than I am simply because I have good, therefore youthful, movement quality!
2. Full range of movement in all joints, particularly every single one of your vertebral joints - so very important in preventing and, particularly managing osteoarthritis. I had osteoarthritis diagnosed almost 30 years ago, and confirmatory x-rays of most of my joints, except my spine. I have been diligent with swimming, swan dive, shoulder bridge, rollover, roll ups, open leg rocker f…