As Pilates teachers, we’ve all encountered clients who don’t quite “get” the method. They might say it’s “too slow” or “too easy,” or that they just want a “hard workout.” Often, these clients come from fitness backgrounds that value intensity over precision, and they may struggle to understand the deeper principles of Pilates. Handling these situations professionally—and perhaps with a bit of playful creativity—can help maintain the integrity of the method while keeping clients engaged.
Why Some Clients Struggle to Understand Pilates
Pilates is a unique approach to movement, focusing on control, alignment, and the integration of breath. For clients used to fast-paced, sweat-heavy workouts, it can feel unfamiliar and even underwhelming at first. They may not see the value in slowing down and tuning into the subtleties of their movement. This disconnect can sometimes lead to vocal criticism, with clients demanding “harder” exercises.
A Professional Approach to Vocal Clients
When faced with clients who criticise the method or ask for more intensity, a calm and professional response is key. Here are some strategies:
Listen and AcknowledgeLet them express their thoughts without interruption. Clients often want to feel heard. A simple, “I hear what you’re saying,” can go a long way in building trust.
Educate and ReframeHelp them understand what Pilates offers by linking exercises to their goals. For example:“I know you’re looking for something more intense, and Pilates can absolutely be challenging. The focus here is on building strength from the inside out, which not only makes you stronger but also prevents injury and improves how your body moves overall.”
Use Tangible BenefitsExplain how specific exercises support their broader fitness or lifestyle goals. For instance:“This exercise is strengthening the stabilising muscles in your hips, which will improve your running performance and reduce the risk of injury.”
Stand Firm on the MethodWhile it’s important to adapt sessions to client needs, don’t compromise the integrity of Pilates to appease demands for fast, high-intensity workouts. Instead, guide them to experience how the method challenges both their mind and body in subtle yet profound ways.
When Playful Proving Works WondersSometimes, the best way to help clients “get” Pilates is to let the method do the talking. Select exercises that appear simple on the surface but reveal the depth of control, precision, and challenge required.
Playful Exercises to Prove a Point
1. Shoulder Bridge on the Reformer (Light Springs)
Set the Reformer to a very light spring (e.g., one blue or yellow spring).
Have the client articulate into a shoulder bridge, maintaining control and alignment.
Ask them to slowly press the carriage out with their heels and return, focusing on stability.
Playful remark: "It’s just one light spring, how hard can it be?" Watch their hamstrings tremble as they realise the power of precision and control!
2. Knees Up with Light Springs
Position the client on the Reformer, hands on the bar, knees on the carriage.
With light spring tension, ask them to press the carriage back slowly while maintaining a neutral pelvis and stable shoulders.
Playful remark: "This looks simple, right? Let’s see if your core agrees!"
The subtle challenge of stabilising their movement often surprises clients and opens their eyes to the intensity Pilates can deliver.
These exercises highlight the brilliance of the method, targeting stabilising muscles and demonstrating the power of control and alignment. They also create a memorable moment of discovery that can help shift a client’s perspective.
Pilates Professionalism with Boundaries
If a client’s vocal criticism disrupts the flow of a session or group class, it’s essential to maintain professionalism while setting boundaries. A response like, “Let’s focus on the session now, and we can discuss your feedback at the end,” keeps things on track while showing you value their input.
When to Let Go
Despite your best efforts, some clients may never fully embrace Pilates. That’s okay! If they remain resistant, it might be worth recommending a different teacher or class better aligned with their expectations. This demonstrates your commitment to their fitness journey while respecting the integrity of the method.
Final Thoughts
Helping sceptical clients understand Pilates can be a rewarding challenge. By staying professional, patient, and even playful, we create opportunities for them to discover the profound benefits of the method. And let’s not forget—sometimes those vocal critics become our greatest advocates once they experience the power of Pilates for themselves.
With a dash of humour, a solid grasp of the method, and a commitment to client education, you can turn even the most resistant sceptic into a true believer.
So, next time someone says, “Pilates isn’t hard enough,” smile, grab the lightest spring, and let the method work its magic!
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