Pilates is a mind-body exercise that has become more than just a fitness fad. Created by Joseph Pilates, the exercises are designed to build strength and control. The movements are gentle on the joints and the core muscles are strengthened from a variety of angles, making it ideal for injury prevention. But don’t be mistaken, while it’s not a high-intensity workout, Pilates still gets the heart pumping and works different muscle groups than most other forms of exercise. As such, it’s important for instructors to be knowledgeable and provide guidance on proper form to help avoid injury.
Unlike other forms of exercise, Pilates also trains functional movement, the type that happens when you walk up and down stairs or carry groceries. Studies have found that people who practice Pilates are able to move better on a day-to-day basis than those who do not. The reason is that Pilates strengthens all the muscles of the body, improving coordination and balance. Ultimately, this makes you less likely to injure yourself both during a class and while performing daily tasks.
It Can Improve Gait and Reduce Fall Risk
In addition to boosting core and leg strength, a 2021 review found that Pilates can improve balance and mobility among older adults with musculoskeletal conditions, such as Parkinson’s disease. It can even reduce the symptoms of the condition and improve quality of life.
It can be challenging to teach a class full of students of all levels of experience. That’s why it’s important to be mindful of how much assistance you give your clients, especially when correcting posture. This may require touching them, which many people don’t like. For this reason, it’s helpful to use clear explanations, demonstrate each exercise, and use the principles of Precision, Skill, Care in your teaching.