Getting Started in Pilates
Pilates - How you can get started....
Find a good teacher This is imperative!
1-1 or group classes? Mat work or studio? Two very big questions and the answers may depend on what is available to you locally, your finances, personal preference, etc.
So let's look at the options:
1-1 lessons: In an ideal world we would all have at least 1 private lesson a week, in a fully equipped apparatus studio. If this is not an option or you prefer the privacy of your own home, you may also be able to engage a teacher to come to your home for a 1-1 lesson. This would usually be mat based though they may bring small portable kit with them.
Group lessons: There is no doubt that there is a place for group lessons. They encourage you to take responsibility for yourself within the group environment. If you are uncomfortable with individual attention this may be the option for you. However, there is the opportunity for you to "slack off" and it is not always possible for the teacher to catch everyone's form when it slips.
However... If you are recovering from an injury or have a specific medical condition 1-1 bespoke lessons are hugely beneficial and may be a pre-requisite to joining a group class.
Once you've made your choices, found your teacher and taken a class: You must like your teacher! You may be spending more time per week with them than you get to spend with your best friend, therefore that relationship better work!
They may be your friends favorite teacher with huge credentials but for both parties to achieve maximum results it is important that a working relationship can be developed. Put simply, if you don't like the teacher, change!
Other things to consider when beginning Pilates
Fill that form in! When signing up for your classes you will be asked to fill in an enrolment form. This will have boxes for you to fill in regarding why you want to learn Pilates and what you would like to achieve. From my experience people do not take enough time filling this in. A hastily scrawled "To get fit" is not really specific enough either for you or your teacher. Be honest: "I've a pair of jeans I'd like to fit back into!" Be realistic, "I was 15 when I last wore them!" Be time specific "I'd like to fit into them in 10 weeks." This then gives you your goal!
Goal setting Look at short, medium and long term goal setting. Running a marathon does not start with 26 miles, it begins with baby steps. Or as a friend of mine once said "You can't eat the whole cow in one bite!"
Achievement Review your goals at regular intervals, are you achieving them? Do you feel the benefit of your classes? Are friends and family noticing a difference in you?
Enjoyment This is paramount, if you enjoy your lessons, you will look forward to them and who knows...one day, your chosen exercise plan may become your career!
Finally.... Always consult your doctor before embarking on a new health regime.
Advice and tips from Julie Driver
She won Pilates Style/Pilates Anytime Pilates Intructor of the Year in 2014. You can view her videos on Pilates Anytime.
