5 Top Tips for Teaching Pilates
In a world of social media frenzy and the quick access to information online, we are able to promote our selves, business and teaching through edited videos, ready made material, thoughts and philosophies others have developed with their own skills.
So what comes out forth in our actual teaching, may be a very different image to what we have promoted.
No.1 BECOME A STUDENT OF YOUR STUDENT
Look at your student. Look at their body, how it moves, how it works the apparatus its on, and most of all LISTEN to your student. This is free information they are giving to you in order for you to do your job correctly!
No.2 CONTINUE YOUR EDUCATION
Your Comprehensive Pilates training is only the base layer, of years and years of genius work Joe Pilates did back then. Respecting the method in its original concept will give you a deep understanding on the function of movement in Pilates. Classical Pilates will provide you everything you need to be safe, effective and holistic in your approach to injured and healthy bodies.
My suggestion would be at least one workshop a year, and there are some great websites that offer videos, interviews and mini workshops which help add some spice in your practice without having to make up stuff! Personally, I recommend www.pilatesology.com
No.3 PERSONAL PRACTICE
Funny isn’t it? You must practice what you teach! I have many teachers who never have time for themselves, but are always busy teaching away hours on end..a method..they don’t practice! Not only it would make them happier, endorphins an all that lovely stuff, but it would clear their head to stay motivated for the endless hours in the studio. Havent got time? Try a 1rep mat (5min) or a 1rep Reformer workout (20min) οr just do a couple of exercises on the barrel and wall.
No.4 THE RIGHT PRICE
You pay for what you get. I truly believe it. I have spent as much money it would cost me to open up another 2 studios for my training. It has all been worth it, and I can only believe that it shows through my teaching and Teacher Training programmes. Pilates has never felt like a job for me, its always been personal thing, a heartfelt feeling and the crave to learn more has kept my interest alive. You will always find a better price in the market, but what are you downgrading to in order to get that price? Usually it’s the equipment, education and personalisation that is affected.
No.5 STOP TALKING
Im sure everyone that knows me is laughing at this last one! Yes, you talk too much. We all talk to much! Play this little game next time, and try teaching an exercise with the least words possible. Cut out the counting (yes, your client, can count for himself), be proactive in your touch without touching for no reason, and let their body move. This will give the mind body connection we need!
