Pilates Instruction ~ learn from skilled instructors

Can you learn Pilates without a instructor? Many say no, and I would agree. The skill and personal vision of the instructor will make a world of difference—learning the positions and movements is relatively easy, but if you're not using the proper technique as you move and assume positions, you will not attain the benefits, and you could possibly cause pain and/or injury.

Pilates videos, DVDs and books are ideal for general learning about Pilates and for guidance while practicing Pilates in between classes or sessions, but it is important for beginners to be introduced to proper technique with certified instructors providing accurate and monitored Pilates instruction

Choose your Pilates instruction wisely

As the popularity of Pilates continues to rise, so does the risk of joining a class with an instructor that is not fully qualified. In the hands of an unskilled instructor, a Pilates lesson could mean, at best, an unfulfilling workout, and, at worst, physical injury. The original principles and methods of Joseph Pilates are often overlooked in many current Pilates programs—replaced by the obsession with achieving slimmer thighs, stronger abs or weight loss. Joseph Pilates vision was to create an individalized program that allowed the body to move without pain while it healed, enabled specific isolation of underutilized muscle groups and facilitated fine-tuning of the whole body to create balanced, well-orchestrated movement.

• Check to make sure the Pilates instructor has completed recognized certification course in Pilates.
  
  
• Is the studio itself a training center for quality Pilates certification programs? Studios that are Pilates training centers are usually on the forefront of advances in Pilates techniques and, therefore, are better equipped to pass along these advances.
  
  
• Are you allowed to "audit" a class before enrolling? Sitting in on a class will allow you to gauge whether or not the instructor and studio are a good fit for your specific needs and goals. Instructors can run the gamut from "militant" to "spiritual" in their approach to Pilates.
  
  
• Does the Pilates instructor continue to train and take continuing education courses? An instructor who continuously updates his or her teaching skills will be able to incorporate new trends into your regimen for maximum benefits.
  
  
• Does the Pilates instructor have experience with other therapeutic or somatic modalities, such as physical therapy, manual therapy, yoga therapy or similar? There are many different types of Pilates; they will influence your trainer’s methods and philosophies.
  
  
• What is the instructor’s philosophy? How does he/she see his/her role in working with you? Having a partner in your quest to achieve overall well-being, both mentally and physically, will be an important factor in reaching your personal goals.
  
  
• How will the instructor interact during your sessions? Will she/he be interested, involved, engaged during the sessions? Will he/she positively motivate, provide feedback and offer encouragement during the session? Guidance is an integral part of the experience.
  
  
• Will the Pilates instructor customize a workout to your specific needs, strengths or injuries? Does he/she effectively address discomforts or modify exercises that you feel are over- or under-challenging? Customization is critical to achieving your personal goals.
  
  
• After a session, will you have good understanding of what you’ve accomplished, what you’re working towards, and what your next sessions will focus on? A patient, understanding and supportive instructor will make a world of difference.
  
  
• Get references!

What to expect in Pilates mat classes

• Class sizes vary and on average are between 8-20 students
• Instructor should monitor your posture, alignment and progress and add modifications specifically for you, if required
• Pilates instruction is a general sequence of exercises that create a balanced class
• Small pieces of Pilates apparatus or accessories such as blocks, bands and balance balls may be used

Pilates instruction on studio equipment

• Initial conversation with the Pilates instructor to identify specific needs and areas to focus on
• Specific programis designed for your workout sessions
• Instructor works with you individually (or on a semi-private/small group basis, guides, supports, corrects as you do the exercises and develops a relationship with you to understand how to get the best results from your session
• Exercises done on clean, well-maintained Pilates equipment