Technique Thursday Pilates Start with Intention

Teacher and client connecting at the start of a Pilates session to set intentions

It can be easy to get swept up in the flow of delivering sessions, especially when we teach regularly. But every now and then it is good practice to pause and come back to the basics, not just the exercises but the way we begin a class. Whether you are teaching a group or working one to one, how you start the session can shape everything that follows.

Today is a chance to reflect and remind ourselves that the beginning matters. It sets the scene, frames the focus, and helps clients feel seen, safe, and ready to move.

Pilates Group Classes – Set the Tone Early. When you are leading a group you may not have time to speak to each person individually. But a collective check in creates awareness and unity.

Offer a Moment of Stillness. Starting with a pause and some guided breath brings everyone into the present and signals the shift from the outside world to their practice.

Introduce the Focus. Will the class explore spinal mobility or shoulder awareness? Letting your clients know the theme gives context to the movements you will be guiding them through.

Use Visual or Verbal Anchors. Remind them of a principle such as control, centring, or precision and invite them to carry that idea through the hour.

Pilates One to One Sessions – Make it Meaningful. With an individual client you have more room to personalise. The start is your time to connect and adjust your plan if needed.

Ask and Listen. How are you feeling is not small talk. It can reveal whether to progress or pull back, where tension may be hiding, or whether they need to move more slowly.

Recap and Reflect. Gently remind them what they worked on last time and how today’s session builds from there.

Reinforce the Method. Starting with a simple movement or breath pattern that embodies a principle grounds them in the method and helps them drop into their body.

Why It Matters. When we skip over the beginning we risk losing the opportunity to bring focus and direction. The start is your foundation. It is where trust, tone, and attention are built. A good beginning means fewer corrections later, more meaningful work, and a stronger sense of purpose.

So today maybe review your own teaching habits. Do you always start with clarity? Could your opening moments offer more connection or guidance?

Every session is new even with the same clients. And how you begin may be the most powerful moment of all.