5 New Teacher Reminders

5 Things to remember when you are first teaching - even when you are doing apprentice teaching during your certification.

1. SAFETY - Keep your clients safe at all times. If you aren't sure if someone is strong enough to do something, modify and simplify the exercise. Bring them down to the mat or try it without the straps on the reformer. If they perform your modification well, move them to the next level. It's better to start slow even if the person claims to have done pilates before or works out, or whatever. You are in charge of keeping them safe.

If there is anything that you must always do...it is to remember safety, safety, safety.

2. PROPS - Use them sparingly. It's easy to want to try a bunch of different tricks when you are first teaching. You know it makes people feel like you are keeping the moves fresh, like you somehow know more, or maybe you know that people tend to feel more with certain props. All of these things are great, but what is even better is teaching a class with NO props and having people come to you and say, "wow, I've never felt my muscles in that way." It's easy to get caught up in a prop game. I know personally. Instead of creating exercises with props, how about creating new ways to cue people. Watch videos, go to classes, read books...see how other people cue and try on a few for yourself.

3. KEEP THE CLIENT MOVING - I know you have to give people a rest, but keep them moving at an even pace, so they don't lose focus. Even if it's a rest type position, keep them moving. I've had many clients who stop and then like to chat...then work out a bit, then stop. I strive to shorten the talky time and increase the movement with purpose. I love it when no one has a chance to speak in my group class. I can see they are all focusing on the exercises. This doesn't mean you have to pump through your class too quickly, just pace yourself and notice when people stop...give a new cue you never gave before, walk over to them and make even a small suggestion to increase the effectiveness of the

4. TEACH THE SESSION BEFORE IT HAPPENS. What do I mean by this? Write down the routine you will follow. Say it out loud in the car on the way to the session. I still do this. Even though the client or the class needs a bit of modification when you actually get there, you will be more prepared if you know what type of class you are teaching. That way, those things you can't control -- like a person with a back issue, or foot issue or just "issue" in general doesn't throw you off your game. Come with a plan but understand that you might need to adjust how you teach the material once you see your clientele.

5. TAKE YOUR TIME. Try to connect with your client and ask them what they hope to achieve with pilates. You will be able to change the focus on the work easily if you listen to what your client wants and needs are!

There is a great article available at which talks about some of the above issues and expands on more reminders for new teachers. Check out Master Trainer Maria Leone's article on the Pilates-Pro website.