Pilates Teachers: Be Aware of Your Environment

Every pilates studio has a different vibe. Some are stern, stoic, strict...a bit scary. Some are very professional, but giving and exciting to go to. Some are very casual and everyone is friends -- even with the owners. Every place has a different image and a different energy. The combination of personalities in clients and the trainers create so many different variations of places that almost anyone can eventually find a place they feel comfortable.

If you are a teacher who teaches at a few different locations, you might notice this immediately! Sometimes, it takes a little awareness to size up the studio and figure out how you should fit in.

Yesterday, I had a conversation with a trusted friend and client at a studio where I just started teaching. She gave me some really good feedback about how I conducted classes vs. the other more senior instructors at the studio. You see, this friend also knew me from classes I taught at another studio...where the entire vibe of the place was much different.

My friend mentioned to me that she noticed that since our class was small that day that I tended to chat a bit more with 2 of the girls. She told me that I should just be aware that the other classes had very personal humor, chit-chat, etc. in them, even though I don't really do that in mine on a regular basis.

Her words were a good reminder that I need to be more aware of my surroundings. While I will always put my personality, humor and personal remarks into a class--that's just me, deal with it--I do a few things to keep the class in tune with the studio's overall environment:

1. I try to keep the class paced so that there isn't a lot of random chatter. People are stretching or moving springs. No time to chat.

2. I move to another exercise or modify it if I feel people are struggling and start chatting.

3. I try not to talk about my daughter --which can get out of hand for most new moms. I usually wait until the end of class or if someone asks.

4. I never take phone calls during class. I've seen teachers do this and I think it's so disruptive. Unless there is an emergency.

5. I give people personal attention by cueing them individually if they need it.

6. I respect the owners of the studio no matter what.

7. I try to make my personal connection with people before or after the class.

These are just off the top of my head...I'm sure I'll think of more.

I am truly grateful for the various studios I've worked in. They have shaped how I teach -- some not for the better, but most of them show me my strengths/weaknesses/remind me why I love to teach!

I wanted to share this because if you are taking classes at some studios or teaching at different studios, be aware that every place is different. Get the most out of wherever you are by understanding your surroundings. Be respectful of everyone at all times and enjoy the challenge of reaching your clients