Pilates classes & Pilates Teacher or Instructors

Having done Pilates on regular basis over four years I have experienced the "enjoyment of physical well-being, mental calm and spiritual peace" as Joseph quoted.

During this time I have come across all kinds of instructors. Some instructors although qualified do not carry out the classes in the proper way. Also few instructors have that "gift or facility" of passing on the true meaning of the Pilates Method. Based on my own experience and having done research now I can tell you what to look for when looking for a Pilates instructor.  

About the Pilates instructor
Pilates teachers or Pilates instructors must hold a recognised qualification.  At present in the U K Pilates Teachers should hold a ‘Level 3’ Pilates qualification and be recognised by the Register of Exercise Professionals REPs.  However nowadays a fitness trainer/instructor may take just a weekend Pilates Teacher Training course without even experiencing a Pilates workout before.

Make sure the instructor is gentle and patient. This is very important if you are recovering from injury or having rehabilitation.

A caring instructor who is passionate about Pilates and committed to enhancing your Pilates experience, will go the extra mile to make you feel warm, relax and confident during your Pilates exercise session.

As Miranda Bass, who helped to set up the basic Pilates mat course work with Gordon Thomson and Lynne Robinson, says a Pilates teacher or instructor should have "good posture, good carriage and grace, have a firm stomach, toned muscles. The Pilates technique forms long, sleek muscles rather than a lot of bulk".

Pilates one to one and private pilates class
There’s a difference between One to One Pilates training and One to One “Private” Pilates training.

Most studios advertise One to One Pilates training which may lead you to believe that your sessions are private, when in fact you are sharing the studio and class time with other people. For more information on Pilates studios click here

Many people prefer the private sessions, especially when they are starting out, or if they are in pain from injury and are exercising to rehabilitate.

A true One to One Private Pilates session/class is just you and your trainer focused on your needs in a peaceful environment with no distractions.

Pilates group classes
A Pilates mat class should have a maximum of 8 people. With larger groups it is impossible for trainers to give the right attention and care.
For information on Pilates group classes click here

Pilates Equipment and Apparatus
Generally you don't need Pilates equipment. However a good instructor will use at least one small apparatus to help when the client finds difficult to perform an exercises. Small apparatus such a elastic bands, small semi-deflated balls, the magic circle or even just a folded towel will help you to work the required muscles "working with you". In this way you can concentrate on the movements adding the extra benefit of a holistic experience.  Also using Pilates small apparatus you can carry out the exercises in a safer way.

Why you should take care when choosing your Pilates Teacher
Remember Pilates is not just a physical exercise, it is a combination of body, mind and spirit.

Due to little supervision, there have been many cases where people get injured neck, lower back, knees or wrists. None of the Pilates exercises should give you any injury.

Pilates instructional DVDs
Whilst instructional DVDs are a good way of practising, at the beginning you should have an instructor. Pilates exercises may look "easy" to perform. However good results are obtained only by performing every movement in the precise and correct way. Only with a good Pilates teacher you can perform the exercises properly the movements.

"Contrology (1) is complete co-ordination of body, mind, and spirit. Through Contrology you first purposefully acquire complete control of your own body and then through proper repetition of its exercises you gradually and progressively acquire that natural rhythm and co-ordination associated with all your subconscious activities. "

(1) Joseph Pilates coined the term "contrology". He was greatly influenced by the early Greeks, and emphasised their co-ordination and balance of body and mind for good health. Joseph Pilates outlined that a combination of a diet; individual's occupation, frequency of exercise and sleeping among other factors will promote a healthy lifestyle.