I want to share with you some insights on a common challenge we face in our studios: clients struggling to grasp our instructions or the subtleties of Pilates movements.
Firstly, it's crucial to acknowledge that as passionate practitioners, what seems second nature to us might not be as clear to our clients. This disparity often stems from the complexity of the movements and the abstract nature of the instructions. For instance, when we talk about engaging the core, many people immediately think of the 'six-pack' muscles.
However, we know this is just the superficial layer. The core is a more intricate system, requiring a nuanced approach to engage effectively.
One technique I've found particularly helpful is using visualisations. Picture this: explaining the core muscles as rings of a tree. The deeper muscles are like the inner rings, integral yet not immediately visible. This analogy helps clients visualise the different layers of muscles, from the deeper core muscles to the more superficial ones like the obliques and rectus abdominis.
Another aspect to consider is the nature of the muscles we're targeting. The core comprises slow-twitch muscles, which operate differently from the fast-twitch muscles that are more familiar to most people. This distinction is crucial in helping clients understand why they might not 'feel' their core muscles in the same way as their more superficial muscles.
Furthermore, external factors such as bodily inflammation or temperature changes can affect how the core functions on any given day. This variability means that even with perfect cueing, some clients might struggle to engage their core as desired.
As teachers, our challenge is to continually adapt our language and methods to suit the diverse experiences and perceptions of our clients. It's not just about instructing; it's about communicating in a way that resonates with each individual.
To sum up, patience and creativity in our teaching approach are key. By using visualisations and tailoring our language, we can guide our clients towards a deeper understanding and more effective practice of Pilates. Let's remember that our role is not just to teach but to translate the complexities of Pilates into understandable and relatable concepts for everyone who walks into our studios.
Stay passionate and patient, and keep inspiring through Pilates!
Comments