So you’ve decided to bite the bullet and give Pilates a go, but where now?
Pilates is an excellent exercise option for building core strength, stability, joint mobility, balance and postural control.
Finding the right class AND instructor for you is important to ensure you the get the most out of your class in terms of both enjoyment and results.
Start in a class
Although there are countless options for learning the art of Pilates online through YouTube or blogs, Pilates is a very specific art.
If your form is not ideal you run the risk of injury, or simply not making your time worthwhile.
Being in a class means you are accountable, and correctable!
Type of class
There are many options for the type Pilates classes including matwork (floor based), equipment, KRX, fitball or even hybrid HITT classes.
Here at Jenkins are classes are a mix of mat and equipment styles to ensure you are supported in tricky movements, whilst also being challenged on the floor.
Our classes tend to involve a mix of Pilates based equipment (such as the reformer, barrels, Cadillac and split pedal chair), as well as more standard pieces of gym equipment (including dumbbells, fitballs and resistance bands).
If the class style is not for you, you might enjoy a 1:1 session with one of physiotherapists more.
Start in a small class
Although it is tempting for your wallet to start in a large class, this means you are not getting much supervision.
This is vital in your first couple of classes for corrections and adjustments.
Our classes contain a maximum of 5 participants, which means you are guaranteed lots of eyes on and hands on time with us each session.
Instructor qualifications
Since Pilates classes and fitness classes in general have skyrocketed in terms of popularity, it is important to ensure that your instructor has a high standard of training.
All of our Pilates instructors are physiotherapists, which means we already have an in-depth knowledge of appropriate exercises for you during, after and well beyond any injury.
On top of this our instructors are either STOTT or APPI trained, meaning they have completed hundreds of hours of training and official exams to provide you with an appropriately challenging session.
5 key elements
Although there will be variation in exercise names and styles of teaching, all Pilates classes should be centered around the 5 key elements of Pilates.
These include:
breathing
centering
rib cage placement
scapular posture
neck alignment.
Our instructors can tell you for each exercise what the correct alignment is for the above features, as well as how to find (and keep finding) your neutral pelvic alignment throughout the class.
Feel the burn – being specific
You should always know why you’re doing an exercise.
A good instructor should be able to tell you what the exercise is, and what muscles are supposed to be working or stretching.
If you’re not feeling the burn in the muscle – we’re not in the right spot.
Regressions/ progressions
A good instructor should be able to run a class of mixed abilities safely.
As a client you should have the option of different exercises, or letting the instructor know if the exercise is not right for you.
Pre- assessment
A pre- assessment is a great way to come in and meet your Pilates instructor, as well as ask any questions you may have.
Often assessments include the instructor asking you for an injury history, as well as teaching you some of the basics you can practice at home.
This means the instructor is well prepared for you when you attend your first class.
Book in your Pilates pre-assessment with us HERE.
Adjustments
Your instructor is there to correct or adjust your technique throughout the class.
There are different forms of feedback (such as visual or tactile), and everyone responds differently.
A good instructor should be able to pick up on your style of learning and use that to help you throughout your class.
Your Pilates instructor should be there to assist you, not being ding their own workout!
Make sure it’s fun!
It’s only worth doing if you’re enjoying it!
Pilates should be a fun environment in which to enhance your body, I hope you love it as much as I do!