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Making Hard Choices Part 2: Hiring Teachers

admin — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:55:40 +0000

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The other day I had the unpleasant task of filling out a wage garnishment form for one of my former teachers. Two years ago, my business partner and I finally had the courage to part ways with this person. Yet here we were, in 2011, still bogged down by the endless repercussions of not being clear and not knowing how to say no.

There is nothing worse for a business’ prospects than allowing the wrong people into it. Choosing people is not about knowing what you don’t want, but what you do want. Don’t make the mistake of settling for less.

In order to recognize those teachers who are not a good fit, we must first know exactly what kind of people we want to attract. We need people who will support our vision, hold the same values as us, and most of all reflect the kind of business we are trying to build.

Hiring The Right People
Whether you are just starting a studio or preparing for expansion, the first step to hiring the right people is taking time to get clear. Write down all of the qualities you are looking for in a teacher. What are you unwilling to compromise on? What values must be shared between the prospective new partner and yourself? Knowing or thinking is not enough. It’s too easy to let one or two things slide when you are sitting in an interview and desperately wanting someone to be the right person. Make a list, write a clear job description, and stick to it.

The biggest mistake you can make is to accept people into your business because you feel you have to. In the beginning of our studio we had a very clear vision, but we did not have a clear sense of what kind of teacher did and didn’t meet that vision. And because we had been rushed into opening and needed teachers badly, we settled for teachers who did not entirely line up with our values. Together, we all then lumbered down a road fraught with frustration and resentment.

Three Necessary Qualities:
1. Self-motivated – There is no other way to create a forward moving, motivated team of people than to hire those who are already motivated!

Interview Tip: Don’t ask expected questions. Dig deeply. Work to uncover the real person by asking them challenging questions that will give you insight into their values and motivations. Invite them to ask questions. If they don’t have thoughtful questions for you in return, that’s a warning sign.

2. Skillfulness and Ability – Require them to teach a demo. Don’t just take their word for it. Also get references from past clients, not just employers.

3. Presentation – They must be comfortable talking about what they do, why they do it and why a prospective student should do it too. This is one of the most difficult skills to teach and you shouldn’t have to. Hire teachers who are excited about what they do and can portray that to everyone.

By Chantill Lopez · Posted on January 17, 2012 · Topic Business, Front Page

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One Response to “Making Hard Choices Part 2: Hiring Teachers”

Jessica Parente on
January 17th, 2012 11:27 pm

Some really important points. I have definitely made similar mistakes in the past, and you can only learn from them. Teaching Pilates must be a passion as well as job, otherwise something is always missing from the lesson which has a snowball effect on the entire studio.

TheShu

admin — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:15:14 +0000

By: Kelley Ranaudo

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It is wonderful to be barefoot during a Pilates session, but many people prefer to have something on their feet. Whether it is for warmth, cleanliness, comfort or to avoid slipping, there are many options available these days for covering the feet.

One of the options in our industry is called TheShu. TheShu is a lightweight and comfortable slipper-like foot covering that is made in the Philippines. It is geared toward indoor sports to help with performance while maintaining a barefoot feeling. Their Athletic design, made of Lycra® or other similar fabrics, has a skid resistant sole. They also have an eco-friendly option, which uses Bamboo or Cotton and Thermoplastic Elastomer (TPE) for the non skid sole.

There are two styles, Athletic or Ballet. The Athletic is higher cut with a tapered sole, while the Ballet style has a lower neck and full-cut sole. For those who like more than basic black, both styles come in a fun, designer line featuring several different designs and colors.

TheShu is priced from $26 to $36. They are certainly worth a try if you are looking for something to cover your feet during Pilates or Yoga. Definitely check out the many options www.anabelfitness.com.

By Kelley Ranaudo · Posted on March 30, 2010 · Topic Front Page, Product Reviews

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Teaching the ABC’s of Pilates

admin — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:15:08 +0000

By: Christine Binnendyk

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We’ve all seen it happen. Some clients can only afford a handful of private Pilates sessions. Oftentimes, these are the bodies crying out for help with pain, misalignment and poor body mechanics.

After working with thousands of clients from all walks of life, I’ve developed a unique teaching style that serves both the short-term client and the ongoing client. It uses a system of A-B-C vocabulary that is easy to remember and quite empowering for teachers and clients alike.

Here’s how it works. Begin cueing with A, then move to B, then move to C.

A = Anchor Point

These help us manage body mechanics. We anchor each movement to make it more efficient and effective. Example: arm movements need to be anchored at the armpit, so that the movement originates from the torso. Anatomically, this means the shoulder girdle sits in place, rather than shifting around, but it’s much easier to simply think, “What can I anchor with?”

Cue your clients on what body parts to use as an anchor for their movements, and you’ll notice them self-correcting when movements start to go amiss. Point out to them that in every exercise, the anchor points get stronger, as well as the working muscles, and you’ll see the light bulbs going off in their heads.

B = Body Geometry

This gives your clients clear pictures for creating proper body alignment. Everyone knows their shapes, like square and triangle; and basic directional prompts like, parallel and diagonal.

Use words like these to tell your clients how to orient their bodies, and they’ll quickly gain confidence in assessing how an exercise should feel . This new confidence often seeps into daily life as better body mechanics.

C = Comfort Options

These are the key to avoiding compensation patterns. We’ve all seen what happens to the clients who tough out holding their head up through a sequence of The Hundred before they’re ready – hello, Stiff Neck City.

Make comfort options a normal part of your teaching pattern – like offering a magic circle to support the weight of the head — and you’ll notice clients become willing to let go of the no pain/no gain mantra. The beauty of Comfort Options is that they encourage clients to work smarter, not harder.

Let’s put the ABC’s into action in three commonly-used Pilates Reformer exercises.

Knee Stretch Round

Assume a kneeling position with hands on the footbar, hips shifted behind the knees, back arched.

Knee stretch correct

Anchor Point Cues

Scoop up the belly
Draw your armpits toward your hips

When these two key areas stay engaged – the scoop and the dropped armpits – the work of Knee Stretch Round stays focused in the core, while strengthening the serratus. Let these anchor points go, and you’ll see the armpits open, throwing energy into the legs or shoulders, instead of the powerhouse.

Body Geometry Cues

Focus on your Diagonal Line; that is what’s moving in this exercise
One body part moves, everything else stays stable

The hips begin farther back than the knees, so you’re creating a diagonal line which will swing back and forth from the hip. Without this diagonal, clients can easily feel confused about how to make the carriage move, often mistakenly shifting the movement pattern into opening and closing the shoulder joint.

Comfort Option Cues

While maintaining your upper body position, sit your hips back as far as you comfortably can.

Many clients have hip or knee limitations, yet they can still perform Knee Stretch Round. They can monitor and manage the position on their own, which empowers them to do the same in daily life. Nine times out of ten, it’s far better to modify a movement pattern than to eliminate it entirely.

Low Front Split

From Knee Stretch Round position, bring the right foot forward onto the footplate. Slide the left knee back, so that you’re in a runners lunge position. The hands stay on the footbar.

Low front split correct

Anchor Point Cues

Scoop up the belly
Allow your back leg to stay in a low diagonal

The action of pressing the front leg out is meant to be a hamstring stretch. To facilitate this, the quads of the front leg should engage, so clients need to power from quads. Avoid powering with the back leg; that’s an inefficient use of energy and it won’t stretch the hamstrings on the front leg.

Body Geometry Cues

The hips stay parallel to the footbar.

The goal of Low Front Splits is to fully extend the front leg, to stretch the hamstrings. When the hamstrings are tight, the body may compensate by hiking a hip up to allow the leg to straighten. This is a sign of a compensating hip and can lead to SI joint issues. Use the Body Geometry cue to tell them when to manage their range of motion.

Comfort Option Cues

Extend your front leg as far as it goes without losing your Body Geometry. If it doesn’t straighten today, simply be consistent with your practice. It will straighten in the future.

Comfort Options can also tell clients when their range of motion may differ from session to session.

Shaving

Sit cross-legged; bring your hands to the base of your skull. Keeping the spine straight, hinge at the hip to about 60 degrees.

Shaving on box

Anchor Point Cues

Scoop up the belly
Corset the ribcage; knit your ribs inward
Draw your armpits toward your hips

The first two cues stabilize the torso. Drawing the armpit toward the hip stabilizes the arm movement. Cue this often, and your ‘ears by the shoulders ‘clients may find relief from neck tension.

Body Geometry Cues

Extend your arm from elbow to finger tips; everything else stays stable
Maintain your diagonal line; the torso should stay still as the arms move

The diagonal line from hip to shoulder to extended finger tips requires the deep abdominals to work to maintain stability. Lose your diagonal line in Shaving, and you’ll put un-do stress on the low back, while diluting the work that should be happening in the triceps.

Comfort Option Cues

Sit tall when cross-legged, before beginning your diagonal hinge. If your waistband drops backward, that’s a sign of tight hips or hamstrings. Please use the long box, so that you can sit tall.

The hinge at the hips is a must, otherwise the body will compensate by rounding forward.

If you’re 6 foot+, it isn’t necessary for your knees to come up by your armpits. Try adding a folded mat on top of the box, so your thighs can be parallel to the floor.

When we get the lower body situated comfortably, you’ll notice the movement pattern of Shaving improve dramatically.

The beauty of this teaching style is that it’s simple and easy to remember: A-B-C. For longtime teachers, you’ll find that you’re using the same cues you’ve always used, but you’re now categorizing them to create a logic pattern for your clients. For newer teachers, the system will help you remember what to communicate to your clients so that they have all the tools they need to progress in any exercise.

Christine Binnendyk was personally certified by Romana Kryzanowska, and is a master Pilates trainer at the Nike World Headquarters in Portland, OR. Her book, Ageless Pilates, features the ABC system and covers beginning and intermediate matwork. Find it at www.Ageless-Pilates.com and on Amazon.

By Christine Binnendyk · Posted on April 30, 2010 · Topic Feature Articles

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8 Responses to “Teaching the ABC’s of Pilates”

Laurie Hogie on
April 30th, 2010 9:36 am

Thanks, Christine! Brilliant technique. It is great to step back and look at teaching from another perspective. Keep writing.
Carol Stack on
April 30th, 2010 10:05 am

Love it, thank you for sharing.
Robin Koocher on
April 30th, 2010 11:28 am

Christine – Just received your book Ageless Pilates – I absolutely think it is fabulous – I work with lots of seniors – I mean in their 80′s and this book will help me to help them even more.

I have not been able to put the book down – received it on Tuesday – excellent job!!!

Thank you – thank you!
Robin
pilateshometrainer.com
ElizabethBrown on
April 30th, 2010 3:51 pm

Christine,
I really like this article and the techniques. Keep writing.
Sally McRae on
May 4th, 2010 11:52 am

Christine, Simple concise and succinct! I love hearing another teacher’s explanation, it so inspires me to get out of my usual cues and expands the work for the client as well! I would love to hear more form you especially as it pertains to seniors! (I’m ordering your book!)
FrankV on
August 16th, 2010 10:13 pm

Great article, Thanks Christine. There are always ways to improve teaching techniques and cues, and you have given me some great ideas to try out, keep it up!
j on
September 26th, 2010 2:53 pm

Thank you very much , great cues
Corsets on
October 26th, 2010 7:05 am

This is so cool..thanks so much for the info. Love it!

Pilates Beyond the Studio

admin — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 00:15:00 +0000

By: Amanda Moon

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Sometimes we all need a change of scenery. Getting out of the studio and offering Pilates in non-traditional venues will give you the opportunity to tap into possible new clientele, introduce Pilates to those who might otherwise never try it, and give back to your community. This article will help you step out of your comfort zone and try something new.

Pilates in the Park

Many Pilates in the Park events are held on Pilates day each year. Why not make it a regular class? There are groups that meet in public parks in New York, LA and Chicago on a weekly schedule during the summer, sometimes drawing hundreds of people! If you’ve ever had a hard time going to your studio because you wanted to be outside…this could be perfect for you.

Considerations:

Permits Pricing: Check with the local Parks Recreation department to find out if you need a permit, and whether or not you can charge a fee for the class.
Organization: Make sure you specify in your advertising what you will provide and what the students are expected to bring, where in the park you’re meeting, and the start and end times. There will be no clock, so expect late comers and people leaving early.
Sound and Safety: Teach modifications for everything, and talk about common concerns. As your group grows, enlist other teachers to assist in “crowd control.” You may need to invest in a portable sound system to be sure everyone can hear you.

Schools

Schools present a plethora of Pilates opportunities. Pilates for Kids is a hot new trend in the industry, and what you teach to the kids they will teach to their parents. Offer to come in and teach a class during P.E., or do a workshop on stretching and cross training for a sports team.

Some schools have a community room where you could teach a class to parents the hour before they have to pick up their kids.

Finally, many schools and colleges offer community education programs as a way to both connect with the local community and raise funds for the school. Tap into one of these already established networks and let the school handle the advertising and payment for you.

Considerations:

Plan ahead: You will need to make arrangements through the school, which will likely include a background check. Approvals may need to be obtained at both the local and district level and may take some time.
Enlist parent-helpers: Kids and teens like to be silly. It’s totally fine to have fun, just make sure they are being safe.
Check out the equipment before you go: even if the school says they have mats, go ahead of time to make sure what they have will work. Some schools refer to carpet squares as mats.
Payment: If you are getting paid, it’s likely going to be less than what you make at your studio. Remember that this is a community service but that some of these students may likely become students at your studio.

Now that we have covered the ideas to get out of your studio, and hopefully get some new faces to come into your studio, the following are ways to give back to the community:

Local Prison/Jail, Homeless Shelters and Half-way Houses

Many facilities offer a fitness center, and the people there are in the process of learning to make better, healthier decisions. Learning Pilates can help them on their journey.

Senior Living Centers

Senior Centers are always open to new programming and volunteers, and this will be a great way to get your creativity going. Can you plan a class for a group of folks with osteoporosis who can’t get on and off the floor? It will be hard, but incredibly rewarding.

Community Groups

From Weight Watchers to Meet Ups to Running Clubs, there are many opportunities to tap into a clientele who may not otherwise try Pilates on their own. A quick search on Google and MeetUp.com along with a stop in to your local running store should give you plenty of options. Contact the group leaders and offer to come teach a class or give a talk on how Pilates can help with flexibility, weight loss, or overall fitness.

Considerations:

Plan ahead. It may take several months to implement a program after the first time you contact the organization, and you may have to complete a background check.
Be prepared mentally: Have a positive attitude. You may meet people in very depressing conditions, but they don’t need your pity. They need your respect and help.
Bring your equipment: You will likely need to supply all equipment and supplies you want to use.
Know who you will be speaking to: Review the group demographic with the leader before you prepare- a group of elite athletes is not going to benefit from hearing how Pilates can get them off the couch.
Be prepared for questions. You are there to impart knowledge. If you get through a whole class, fantastic, but be prepared to be interrupted.
Know your schedule: Bring cards and studio information, but also be ready to give options if they ask for you to be a regular weekly or monthly group leader. Have an idea of what you would charge or if you would be willing to do it for free.
Be committed. Just because you may not be getting paid doesn’t mean they will be depending on you any less. Treat it as any other paying appointment.

Hope these ideas give you a reason to spread the word of Pilates outside of your studio!

By Amanda Moon · Posted on June 2, 2010 · Topic Business, Front Page

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One Response to “Pilates Beyond the Studio”

mark on
October 30th, 2010 8:07 pm

I love the idea about Pilates in the park! I don’t think we have to wait for Pilates day each year. I am going to do a routine this week in the park.

What I like about exercising in the park is that I don’t need my Pilates floor mat. The grass is soft enough.

Franklin Method® Workshop

admin — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 18:13:24 +0000

By: John Ranaudo

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At The Fitness Studio of Orlando we are offering the Pelvic Power for Core Integration Franklin Method® Workshop on Saturday, June 26, 11:30am – 2:30pm. The workshop will be taught by Gini Martinez and will cost $100.

This workshop focuses on the application of imagery exercises to increase the balance, alignment and flexibility of the joints, ligaments, muscles and organs of the pelvis. All these systems need to interact dynamically to create power and balance in the core.

This, in turn, will increase the safety of the lower back, knees and feet. Sacral balance is key to the alignment of the spine and legs. We will experience how the sacrum actually moves as a key to understanding proper cueing for Pilates, dance, Yoga and any other movement discipline.

Throughout the workshop imagery and language is used that explains the complex subject matter at all levels of experience. Through the evolutionary logic this workshop will provide a fresh understanding of anatomy and biomechanics of the pelvis. The participants will leave the workshop with a sense of aligned strength through the pelvic floor, the feet firmly balanced and the spine long and buoyant.

Experience effortless alignment and balance for the whole body through experiential understanding of the pelvic bones, joints and muscles.
Discover and apply the dynamic alignment of the sacrum.
Experience how the pelvic floor musculature relates to the abdominal, lower back and hip flexor musculature.
Experience the importance of the organs in pelvic floor training.
Learn ball and imagery exercises to train and balance the pelvic joints and muscles.

Reserve your spot today by contacting Gini Martinez at (859) 405-1236 or via email at gini@pilateyourbody.com.

By John Ranaudo · Posted on June 17, 2010 · Topic News

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3 Responses to “Franklin Method® Workshop”

Pamela McAvinue on
June 17th, 2010 7:55 pm

I would love to attend this conference but I will be in another part of the country on vacation with my family. Is there any possibility that this workshop will be coming to the greater New Jersey/New York area?

Pam McAvinue
John Ranaudo on
June 17th, 2010 9:27 pm

Great question Pamela. You can find more of Gini’s workshops on her website http://bit.ly/franklinmethodworkshop or contact her about coming to your area.
Gini Martinez on
June 19th, 2010 9:34 am

Hi Pamela!
I’m sorry you won’t be able to attend next week’s workshop in Orlando. I’d be happy to discuss coming to your area. You can email me at gini@pilateyourbody.com.
Have a safe fun vacation!
Warm regards,
Gini

Bootcamp Pilates for your Pilates Studio

admin — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 18:13:20 +0000

By: Richard Kanellis

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Since Pilates was first introduced almost 100 years ago, different styles of this intriguing system of exercise have emerged. One of the most recent and controversial styles is Bootcamp Pilates. Frowned upon by many Pilates purists, Bootcamp Pilates may be seen as the anti-Pilates or as Peter Fiasca’s puts it, “…a mutation of Pilates”. Nevertheless, should Pilates studios consider offering Bootcamp Pilates as a programming option?

What is Bootcamp Pilates?

The word Bootcamp gives the impression of military style fitness training with a drill sergeant type instructor barking orders while participants sweat out 1 or 2 more repetitions before collapsing on the floor. Bootcamp Pilates is similar. However, instead of wearing big black boots and running through tires, you are barefoot performing a range of Pilates and fitness exercises.

Bootcamp Pilates is typically performed in a group setting on the reformer. The exercises include traditional reformer exercises as well as popular fitness moves such as lunges, squats, dips and push ups. The reformer revitalizes such fitness-based exercises as it demands an extra dimension of balance and core control.

Bootcamp Pilates is far removed from the classical method taught by Joseph Pilates. It opposes one of his key principles which advises against pushing the body to exhaustion. Instead, Bootcamp Pilates incorporates the weight training principle of muscle failure which helps boost muscle tone and development. Bootcamp Pilates follows some Pilates principles such as spinal and joint alignment, core activation (centering) and deep concentration. Nevertheless, this interesting modification should be considered a fitness-based exercise method rather than a mind-body exercise system.

Despite its difference from traditional Pilates, this system of exercise is gaining huge popularity, mostly due to the impressive results that participants are seeing within a very short period of time. Furthermore, many benefits associated with traditional Pilates such as improved posture, alignment correction, body awareness and reduced back and joint pain are also generated through the Bootcamp Pilates method. One significant benefit which amplifies the popularity of Bootcamp Pilates is effective weight and fat loss. Thanks to the intensity of the class, one can burn up to 700 calories per hour, regardless of fitness level.

The Pros of offering Bootcamp Pilates at your Studio

Bootcamp Pilates is hugely popular and many people who typically would not find traditional Pilates interesting are giving this new dynamic upbeat version a go. Traditional Pilates can be quite a hard sell at times. Not everyone may appreciate its subtle controlled elements, slow movement and the long term benefits it brings. Offering Bootcamp Pilates may bring a whole host of new clients through your door who eventually, may convert into traditional Pilates enthusiasts. In addition, many people are looking for a weight loss solution and while traditional Pilates assists in weight loss, the results can be slow. Bootcamp Pilates gives your center the opportunity to assist your clients in their weight loss goals while still introducing them to Pilates.
Offering Bootcamp Pilates also opens up an interesting marketing opportunity in garnering press coverage. The press is consistently interested in new fitness concepts and with the right approach, you may be able to receive new referrals from magazines and newspapers articles.

The Cons of offering Bootcamp Pilates

Bootcamp Pilates may not fit in with many studios’ ‘Mind-Body’ design. Most Pilates studios are very tranquil, quiet spaces with calming design features to help clients focus on the mind body connection. Bootcamp Pilates is hot, sweaty and loud, typically performed to pumping house music and therefore may not complement the existing set up of many studios. Due to the heat and moisture generated during a class, a ventilation and air-cooling system are desirable to maintain comfort. The Pilates reformers also take a greater amount of wear compared to traditional Pilates and extra maintenance costs need to be factored in. Other Pilates professionals and studios in the area may not agree with this type of class being offered and a previously amicable relationship with fellow competitors may turn sour.

Are you with it or against it?

Most Pilates professionals with an absolute passion for the work of Joseph Pilates may find their skin crawling at the very term ‘Bootcamp Pilates’. Many may believe it opposes all of Joseph Pilates’ teachings and see this method as a way of cashing in on the Pilates name. For those studios already offering other styles of fitness classes within their Pilates programming, Bootcamp Pilates may be an appealing opportunity. As long as this class is sold accurately as a fitness and resistance-training class that includes Pilates elements, rather than advertised as a genuine Pilates class, and as long as it does not impact negatively on your existing client base, Bootcamp Pilates may be a great addition to your Pilates program.

By Richard Kanellis · Posted on August 16, 2010 · Topic Industry Insider

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14 Responses to “Bootcamp Pilates for your Pilates Studio”

Julia Wheeler on
August 16th, 2010 10:10 am

I think this is a great idea, I like it…. I teach Pilates, and after 8 years of it I do at times find the basic principals of Pilates minding numbingly boring, it always good to mix things up…
Nicole De Anda on
August 16th, 2010 10:16 am

I am a Pilates instructor and have been teaching for six years. I’ve definitely seen many studios embracing this Pilates bootcamp or circuit training type of format in order to get more clients through the door. Their classes are usually full and wait listed. It seems to be a resounding sentiment that while the average client wants to do the exercises safely, they don’t always care that they do it to perfection. They just want a heart pumping workout, to fun music, that makes them sweat and makes the hour pass by quickly.

I currently instruct this type of group reformer class. However while I strive to make the class challenging enough so that the clients return, I also try to do the best I can to offer them tactile and verbal corrections throughout each movement to show them how doing the exercise correctly makes it ten times harder. Some get that concept…but some do not.
Elizabeth O’Connor on
August 16th, 2010 1:26 pm

I own 31 Ten Fitness in Lighthouse Point Florida. We offer Pilates and group fitness classes. We offer a wide range of Pilates classes including a intense version of the pilates reformer class. I feel like it keeps those who have been doing pilates for years inspired and motivated. It also gets people who may have never tried pilates into it. Pilates is evolving just like yoga and other fitness modalities. It doesn’t mean that one way or style is better or that people will not also enjoy the classical methods. I think that learning the different styles and experiencing different instructors is important in learning how to correctly use your body. After all Pilates, contrololgoy as it was originally called, is the art of controlling the body, your body! Changing things up is good. I think Joe would like it. So as instructors we find our own special and unique ways of getting that across to our clients. Besides the reformer was designed as a stepping stone to the matt which is the hardest part of the practice. If we incorporate some more mat work and bring up the intensity it’s a step in that direction. Ultimately it is important to get people moving there body in a challenging way, sometimes we have to take baby steps and open peoples mind to the art of pilates. If that means we spice things up by adding in other challenges I think it’s great. My clients seem to like it too!
FrankV on
August 16th, 2010 10:09 pm

I love the concept of Pilates bootcamp. I too have run these programs at my own studio. One thing that we all must never forget is that bootcamp doesn’t mean forget the core principles of Pilates. Although intense, the exercises must still be done with complete control, precision and with correct breathing, not as fast as you can to burn as many calories as possible. When done correctly these programs bring amazing results.
Neil on
August 17th, 2010 2:42 am

I’ve been offering a few hybrid courses, one using a similarly designed programme to the above but with a different cardio component, incorporating a few props but no equipment; the other is a circuit class (pretty standard fair to whats already on offer in most studios). We’ve have good success with both.

I do agree that a ‘bootcamp’ designed camp does not follow Pilates methodology and principles regarding overwork/exertion. However I too notice that many (not all) clients just want to work hard. If I can give them some of what they want as well as some of what I think they need (ie Pilates approach) then I reckon I’ve gotten through their thick skulls a bit. Better to do that than completely lose them. I believe in winning by small steps…

So as long as the classes are ethically and properly advertised and taught (ie by properly trained Pilates practitioners, not by personal trainers that do a 2 day course in Pilates) then I say go for it!
Mike Perry on
August 17th, 2010 3:28 pm

In response to the first post: If you’re bored with teaching the principles of Pilates then it’s probably time for you to stop teaching.

In the UK there are several different companies offering similar things, and other variations (“Piloxing” anyone?). There will always be people trying to dress up what they offer as the new thing, or a new slant on pilates. I don’t believe that this is ever for anything other than commercial reasons. Ultimately, if it’s pilates, call it that, the intensity of the class is irrelevant, if you are teaching pilates. If the fundamentals are getting lost in the quest for cardio/calorie burning then it’s not pilates – and should be named accordingly.
Ricard Salom on
August 17th, 2010 6:58 pm

I just think that not everything is right to make money! Pilates is a great method, with strong fundaments so… please don’t ruin it! If any of you want to be creative is great, but don’t confuse your potential costumers, since Pilates is a serious thing!
As a dancer and actor, and also a person, Pilates changed my life. After learning Pilates I became a better actor, I dance with more grace and I am also a better person. I hope I coud express better what PILATES means for me.
So please keep the technique like it was, and stop thinking only about making money. I understand that some things have changed since the time when Pilates was created: people’s needs, injuries and knowledge of the body… but if you want a boot camp, join the army and go to war (I don’t think this is funny).
We have to love and care for our body. Why people go to the gym to treat their body badly? Why they only think about burning calories? Why loud music, and a trainer giving orders in a rough way?
NO PAIN NO GAIN is over, isn’t true, with LOVE and CARE you can get everything, live is too hard to spend your leisure time suffering, believe me!
Sorry for the language mistakes. And I never pretended to be rude to anyone.
From Barcelona, Ricard.
CP on
August 25th, 2010 12:36 am

There is definitely two camps in this argument: 1 for using the Pilates brand to make money, the other to preserve the quality being the Pilates brand. I believe both can happen, one just has to stay true to the fundamentals and principals of alignment that Joseph Pilates set forth. Over in England gyms and studios have abused the Pilates brand name with “boot camps” so bad it is disgusting. The boot camp classes would be fine if the instructors were actually certified and knew what to look for in the movements. Instead, most boot camp pilates “instructors” are merely certified personal trainers over here in England. The public is being doofed unfortunately.
Ernie on
August 27th, 2010 7:09 pm

It is basically as Peter Fiascia perfectly put it, “a mutation Pilates”.
This nonsense class is nothing more than an income producer for studio’s that have not yet mastered the methods of teaching true classical Pilates to their clients. These boot camp classes that I’ve seen here in New York are usually taught by poorly educated teachers that have little or no anatomical education. None of the critical core Pilates principles are used in the class that separates Pilates from most other forms of misalignment, non-breathing and injury-in-the- waiting forms of exercising.
So these “Pilates” studio’s latched on to some gym like fitness class and have been promoting it like it’s something new form of Pilates.
And it’s not that clients get bored with learning the classical Pilates methods of excecising, it’s teachers get who bored.
Pilates Exercises – How to work hips thighs for ***Pilates Brentwood ca*** on
September 4th, 2010 1:36 am

[...] Bootcamp Pilates for your Pilates Studio | Pilates Digest [...]
j on
September 26th, 2010 3:40 pm

First, why Pilates was created ? The real concept? Real Pilates teacher ,would be able to answer that ,If you teached advanced classes properly and are actually really using your core , you wont have to create Bootcamp Pilates , teach Bootcamp exercise outdoor its wonderful ,that’s okay ,but please let’s not lose the essence of Pilates .
Thank you.
Short term profit long-term suffering.
j on
September 30th, 2010 3:02 pm

Thank you Richard , for reminding me as well how Pilates change my life not just physical but emotionally and for those who understand spiritually, i hope there will be enough teachers to understand the profound meaning and try to keep the true essence of Pilates.
Pilates Las Vegas on
May 12th, 2011 3:57 am

I have been looking into offering a boot camp class at my studio, I have been trying to gage the level of interest, I think it would be a good selling point for people who may otherwise feel Pilates is not for them. It may appeal more to male clients who sometime perceive Plates as too gentle.

I understand why some instructors may be against the idea but we already offer a wide variety of traditional classes so one or two boot camp classes per week would be a good balance.
Daniel le Roux on
November 25th, 2011 3:52 pm

Personally I believe after attending one of these so called Bootcamp Pilates classes it’s mostly dynamic gym exercises using Pilates equipment,. Sadly no mind body connection, flow or centering involved.

I also found Personal trainers with no knowledge or understanding of Pilates principles are teaching mostly Bootcamp Pilates classes allowing a reputation as the cowboy of Pilates. I agree that classic Pilates do need a more dynamic/ aerobic element for mass market appeal but please keep the essence of Pilates as previously mentioned in comments above.

Pilates and Yoga retreat with Aloha Wellness

admin — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 18:13:13 +0000

By: John Ranaudo

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Aloha,

Please join us for an unforgettable President’s Day weekend Pilates and Yoga retreat with Aloha Wellness. Located on the Big Island of Hawai’i amidst a tropical garden and oceanfront paradise.

Aloha Wellness Retreats offers a unique Pilates and Yoga experience in an oasis of beauty and tranquility. We offer you a chance to relax, rejuvenate and enjoy the beauty of luxurious natural surroundings. It is here that one can attain the complete balance of mind, body, and soul.

For more information visit their website at www.alohawellnessretreats.com or via email info@alohawellnessretreats.com.

Mahalo,
Andy Sherwood and Bettina McCullough

By John Ranaudo · Posted on November 18, 2010 · Topic News

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Pregnancy Resources for Pilates Instructors

admin — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 12:08:07 +0000

By: Amanda Moon

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I found out I was pregnant with my first child one week before I began my Pilates Teacher Training Program. After consulting with my doctor and instructor, I decided that I would continue with the program while at the same time researching the effects of Pilates during pregnancy. I learned all about diastasis recti (it can’t be prevented, but it can be minimized), kegals and splinting. Some Pilates Instructors treated me like a porcelain doll, too fragile to be moved, and others adjusted my lessons so that we did every possible variety of arm and leg exercises possible without abdominal engagement.

Three and a half years later, there are many more resources available for both instructors and pregnant woman. Jennifer Gianni, a mom and a birth coach herself, has created a training program for instructors. Sarah Picot has produced one of the most comprehensive pregnancy Pilates programs available anywhere. Women can now get their workouts directly on their phones, and celebrities everywhere are crediting Pilates with getting their pre-pregnancy shape back impossibly fast.

Having gone through two pregnancies and taught clients through dozens more, I have compiled a list of go-to resources for both my teaching and my clients. Here are my favorite resources:

Pilates and Pregnancy by Sarah Picot: I recommend the book, because it comes with a video, and it has specific notes for each stage of pregnancy.

If you travel a lot, the Pilates and Pregnancy iPhone Apps are a fantastic take a long tool that won’t weigh down your baggage. And at just $5 per trimester or $10 for the full program, it’s a fantastic deal.

Jennifer Gianni, herself a mom, Pilates Instructor and a Birth Coach, has also created a series of videos for use during and after pregnancy. My favorites are Post Pregnancy C-Section Recovery her Exercising with Baby DVD. Her four month old daughter rolls around and tries to scoot away- just like both of my kids did every time I tried to exercise with them. The Post Pregnancy video includes a quick introduction with Jennifer, three days post partum and still in the hospital, giving new moms an idea of what they are in for and a few exercises to get started right after the baby is born. Watch it before going to the hospital- if you wait until after you will miss out on valuable information!

Jennifer teaches her Pre Post Natal Teacher Training program around the world, but if you can’t make it to her, she has videos available to review the protocol of teaching pregnant clients available for purchase on her website. Sarah’s book also includes a section for helping instructors modify for pregnant clients.

Lynne Robinson’s Pilates Pregnancy Guide offers great full color photography along with several exercises and stretches that, while not in the traditional Pilates repertoire, were some of my favorite for staving off back pain.

Pilates is a fantastic tool during pregnancy- both for preparing for birth and for aiding in quick postpartum recovery. Always remember (and remind your clients) that every pregnancy is different, and every day can bring new challenges. Pregnancy is not the time to push the body, it’s the time to nurture it, and Pilates can help you do just that.

By Amanda Moon · Posted on December 30, 2010 · Topic Feature Articles

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4 Responses to “Pregnancy Resources for Pilates Instructors”

Check me out on PilatesDigest.com | Amanda Michelle Moon on
January 1st, 2011 11:47 pm

[...] article, Pregnancy Resources for Pilates Instructors is now available on [...]
The Pilates Lifestyle: Making the commitment | Pilates for Mommies on
January 1st, 2011 11:53 pm

[...] am excited to announce the publication of my latest article on PilatesDigest.com! PilatesDigest is one of my favorite online Pilates [...]
faress asia on
January 8th, 2011 6:44 am

hi . i love pilates ,i like to be certified in pilates for pregnant but i don.t know how ?? i need your help …..

realy it’s so cool .i am very thankfull fo this important information
Amanda Moon on
February 9th, 2011 8:40 am

Faress- Jennifer Gianni offers a PreNatal Pilates Certification, as does The Center for Women’s Fitness. Google either one of them to find out the details. Good luck!

SUPilates: Pilates on the Water

admin — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 12:08:04 +0000

By: Karen Mirlenbrink

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Wouldn’t it be amazing to experience and enjoy the best of both worlds: the strength and grace of Pilates, with the tranquility of the ocean? Believe it or not, you now can!

Pilates Instructors across the country are taking Pilates to the water in their nearest ocean, lake, or river on Stand Up Paddleboards. These boards (also called SUPs) are the latest fitness sensation and fastest growing water-sport across the globe. SUPs appear to be large surfboards, and are propelled by a standing paddler who uses an extra-long canoe paddle. Stand Up Paddling originated in Hawaii, which mixes the traditional Polynesian outrigger canoe paddling with surfing. The result of this wonderful combination is a new sport that is easy for anyone to do. Fitness professionals have flocked to Stand Up Paddling not only because it’s fun and the cardiovascular benefits of the workout are superb, but also for the core-based balance challenge that the board provides to their clients.

As the board is floating on water, the paddler must constantly recruit deep stabilizing muscles of the pelvis and spine just to stand on the board and paddle it. Taking it further, adding core-based exercises to the board will enhance the recruitment of such muscles. Hence, adding Pilates exercises to the board will enhance the challenge and benefits of Pilates. For example, when performing what seems to be a simple exercise like Leg Circles, the participant is reminded to stabilize their pelvis, and ensure that their weight is not shifting from hip to hip. On the paddleboard, the board will not only provide feedback about the unstable pelvis by rocking, it will also provide more of a challenge because the wobbly hips and uncontrolled leg movements will cause the board to flip over. The same proves true with performing exercises that address spinal stability and abdominal strength. Not only will the participant be working the abdominals in flexion, they will be firing more stabilizers to maintain the stability on the unstable board, thus making the exercise more challenging. More complicated exercises, like Kneeling Side Leg Series, for example, are particularly challenging because of the requirement of scapular AND pelvic stability necessary to perform this series properly. All-in-all, Pilates routines on the Stand Up Paddleboard are very effective, very challenging, and very fun!

Now to the next step: How does one offer these classes? First of all, you will need to contact a local outdoor shop or a retailer that rents Stand Up Paddleboards. Work with them and set a pricing structure that is reasonable both for your benefit and for your participants to pay. Most retailers/renters also provide a location (or means to get the boards to a location), paddles, and possibly guide to help on the water. Finding a location may be challenging, but safety is the most important things to consider. Safety issues in the water include safe access to the water, tides/currents, wide/stable and durable boards, signed liability waivers, and a sufficient emergency plan. Practicing your routine prior to the class is also important. You may find that some of the exercises may need to be modified to provide a more effective flow or appropriate challenge for the level of your participants.

Are you looking for more information on SUPilates classes? Karen Mirlenbrink of Dunedin Pilates Studio and the crew at SUP Paddleboard bring SUP Pilates classes to the waters of the Tampa Bay area weekly. In addition, Karen has created a SUPilates Instructor Workshop, hitting the waters in the Spring of 2011. Feel free to contact Karen at karen@dunedinpilates.com or visit her website at www.dunedinpilates.com for more information!

By Karen Mirlenbrink · Posted on February 15, 2011 · Topic Industry Insider

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4 Responses to “SUPilates: Pilates on the Water”

Tweets that mention SUPilates: Pilates on the Water | Pilates Digest — Topsy.com on
February 15th, 2011 7:38 am

[...] This post was mentioned on Twitter by fitnessexperts and Alltop Yoga, Alex Webster. Alex Webster said: SUPilates: Pilates on the Water | Pilates Digest: Taking it further, adding core-based exercises to the board wi… http://bit.ly/gvFxgy [...]
SUPilates Instructor Workshops Scheduled | Pilates Digest on
March 6th, 2011 9:05 pm

[...] you interested in teaching Pilates on the Stand Up Paddleboard? SUPilates Instructor workshops have been scheduled for the Summer and Fall of [...]
Manuella Rangel » SUPilates: Pilates na água on
April 18th, 2011 7:45 pm

[...] http://www.pilatesdigest.com/supilates-pilates-on-the-water/ comentários [...]
Jerry Teo on
October 14th, 2011 10:51 am

Wow! I really like the idea of practising Pilates on water. I remember an imagery I gave to my student about stabilising the core as if she was on water. This post really reminds me of what Joseph Pilates himself emphasized. Pilates is part of our everyday life and activities like this will reinforce what he has taught and our belief that we need to practise Pilates to our everyday lives!

SUPilates Instructor Workshops Scheduled

admin — Sun, 11 Dec 2011 12:07:59 +0000

By: Karen Mirlenbrink

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Are you interested in teaching Pilates on the Stand Up Paddleboard? SUPilates Instructor workshops have been scheduled for the Summer and Fall of 2011!

SUPilates Instructor workshops teach the basics of Pilates and SUP-appropriate matwork, along with the basics of paddleboard technique, guiding principles, and safety measures. Students will walk away with the knowledge of paddleboarding and the Pilates tools that will help them teach classes on their local waters. Beginner paddleboarders are welcome!

Each SUPilates workshops are two days long. The first half of the first day is spent on the water, followed by Pilates work on land. The second day is spent completely on the water. Registration can be done online at www.SUPilates.com, and registration includes a manual, laminated SUPilates cards, and your paddleboard rental. Bring your own board and save $25 on registration fees. For more information, please contact Karen Mirlenbrink at Karen@supilates.com.

Upcoming Workshops include:

April 30-May1 – Postcard Inn, St. Pete Beach, FL
June 25-26 – Postcard Inn, St. Pete Beach, FL
October 3-4 – River Rocks Outdoor Festival, Chattanooga, TN

We are looking forward to some great weekends on the water!

By Karen Mirlenbrink · Posted on March 6, 2011 · Topic News

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