I know what you’re thinking, “How on earth can my Pilates instructor be my best friend when they inflict pain every class?!”. Keep reading to find out…
Firstly, I don’t mean ‘best friend’ as in someone who you tell your deepest and darkest secrets to. I mean someone who you can gain knowledge from on a deeper level. Your instructor wants to help you, but if they don’t know that you’re struggling or confused, they can’t help you!
Do you have any old/new/ongoing injuries?
This is probably one of the most important conversations to have with your Pilates instructor. Not only for the first time you meet each other, but to continue to discuss how your body is feeling weekly. Your instructor needs to know everything and anything about your past injuries, accidents and even fitness history so they can have a greater understanding about possible modifications you may need throughout the class.
For example, it’s important for your instructor to know if you have broken any bones/torn any ligaments (no matter how long ago), if you have any chronic conditions (this could be anything like auto immune diseases such as fibromyalgia) or even if you have been sick/run down recently. If you do have major injuries or illnesses, it will be put on file but it’s still important to talk to the instructor in person so you can explain any extra details that they should be aware of. Communicating well with your instructor can help you get the most out of your Pilates class.
What level should you be?
This question is in regards to level 1 ability and level 2(and above) ability. Level 1 usually refers to beginners or someone who might be coming back from an injury or time off. Level 2 usually refers to clients who have been practicing pilates for at least 6 months and who don’t have any current injuries. However, there can be some cross over between the levels depending on the individual.
For instance, you may be a long-time client but are only just returning after a few months off from an ankle injury. Technically, you’re a level 2 but you would be following the level 1 advice for any exercise that requires lower leg stability or strength to safely rehab from that injury.
Or, you could be new to Pilates but might be a dancer, therefore you’d be very familiar with most of the movements and have good body awareness so you could attempt level 2 variations in certain exercises.
Everyone is different so if you’re ever not sure what level you fall under, ask the instructor and they would be able to give their opinion on what you should do. Your instructor is there to help and support you!
Do you understand the exercise?
This is so important! If you’re not sure what the purpose of the exercise is, how can you possibly know if you’re executing it correctly and reaping the benefits?
Some exercises will be very clear about which body part you should be focusing on or what the purpose of the movement is. However, some exercises are designed to challenge multiple body parts and multiple principles at once. These are called integrated exercises. They can involve many muscles groups, breath, alignment, control, balance and strength- just to name a few! Sometimes the purpose of these exercises is to focus on the breath or the dynamic quality or the core control required. If you’re even the slightest bit unsure on the ‘why’, ask the instructor to explain the benefits or the purpose so you can get the most out of the exercise.
Your Pilates instructor chose their profession as they love to help people improve in every way possible. They are there to make you feel welcome, safe and understood. If your instructor doesn’t know the answer to your question, they can always refer you to someone who might know.
I understand that you may not to disrupt the class or bring attention to yourself if you have a question, but at the end of the day, you’re a paying client who deserves to have any help you need to keep improving and enjoying your Pilates practice. So, ask away!
