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Exploring the Art of Cueing: A Fresh Perspective for Pilates Teachers

Writer's picture: Michael KingMichael King

Elegance of Structure: Embracing Bone-Based Pilates Technique
Harmony in Motion: Pilates Alignment through Bone Cueing

In the world of Pilates, the essence of teaching has remained constant over the decades. However, the way we communicate and guide our clients through their practice is an ever-evolving art. Today, I'd like to delve into a fascinating approach that may transform your teaching methods: cueing the bones. This technique offers a refreshing perspective, enabling us to connect with the original principles of Joseph Pilates in a modern context.

Joseph Pilates, a visionary in physical fitness, emphasised the importance of alignment and efficient movement patterns. Interestingly, it is said that he did not cue muscles as much as he cued the bones. By focusing on the placement and movement of bones, he aimed to improve alignment and, subsequently, the overall function of the body. This approach is not only innovative but also challenges us to rethink how we instruct our clients.


Why Cue the Bones?

Cueing the bones, rather than muscles, directs attention to the structural foundation of the body. It encourages a deeper understanding of how movements originate and the interconnectedness of the body's systems. This method can enhance proprioception and awareness, allowing clients to explore movements with a focus on alignment and efficiency.


Examples of Cueing the Bones

  1. Thigh Bone Movement: Instead of instructing a client to "reach your leg longer," try saying, "reach the thigh bone away from you." This cue prompts the client to focus on extending from the hip joint, encouraging a more aligned and efficient leg extension.

  2. Arm Movements: When guiding arm movements, instead of simply asking to "lift your arm," you might say, "allow the humerus to float upwards in the shoulder socket." This not only refines their awareness of the arm's movement but also integrates the action within the context of the shoulder girdle's stability.

  3. Spinal Articulation: In exercises that involve spinal articulation, such as the Roll-Up, cueing the individual vertebrae can be incredibly effective. For example, "imagine stacking each vertebra on top of the other as you roll up," helps clients visualize and execute the movement with nuanced control and awareness.

  4. Pelvic Placement: For exercises requiring pelvic stability, cueing the position of the pelvis can be transformational. Try cues like, "gently align the pelvic bones as if balancing a glass of water on them," to promote stability and balance through the core.


The Benefits of This Approach

Adopting bone-focused cueing can profoundly impact how clients perceive and execute Pilates exercises. It fosters a holistic understanding of movement, emphasizing the integral role of skeletal alignment in physical health. This method not only aligns with Joseph Pilates' original teachings but also offers a fresh way for modern Pilates teachers to enrich their practice.


Final Thoughts

As we explore different ways of communicating in our teaching, it's vital to remember that the essence of Pilates lies in its principles. By cueing the bones, we offer a unique pathway for clients to deepen their practice, enhance body awareness, and achieve balance and alignment. This approach is a testament to our commitment to innovation, grounded in the timeless wisdom of Joseph Pilates. Let us embrace this challenge, exploring new dimensions in our teaching and in the practice of Pilates.

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