Choosing the Right Pilates Class
by Richard Romando
Every Pilates studio, health club,
spa and fitness facility has its own
training classes and programs. If
you have a limited budget, it is a
good idea to join a group class. This
is a great, relatively economical
place for beginners to start, and
have fun. Using standing, sitting
and recumbent positions, the instructor
guides students through the various
stretches and movements.
Ideally, group mat Pilates classes
have a manageable student-teacher
ratio, not more than fifteen students
per teacher, so the instructor can
monitor each individual's form and
progress. Separate classes are held
for beginner, intermediate and advanced
students.
With the coming of smaller, less-costly
equipment Allegro, more and more fitness
clubs are adding group Reformer classes
to their program. Ideally each participant
has some experience on a Reformer
prior to joining a group class.
Students work through a sequence
of Reformer choreography at the appropriate
level in unison, with the Pilates
instructor monitoring for safe and
proper form.
The most effective way to learn,
practice and perfect Pilates performance
is to go for a personal training session,
in which the instructor devotes undivided
attention to a student's specific
needs. These sessions usually begin
with a warm-up on the mat, but a variety
of Pilates equipment can be explored
as well.
Club and studios have Pilates classes
themed around specific props like
the balance ball, resistance band
or the Pilates circle/ring. A small
prop can add variety and a challenge
to a group mat class, and expands
the programming possibilities for
a facility.
Some clubs and studios offer Pilates
classes designed for those who golf,
play tennis, or swim in the summer,
while programs for skaters and skiers
are popular in the winter.
Studio and clubs are also offering
a blend of Yoga and Pilates as "Yogalates"
or "Piloga". Similarly, cycling and
Pilates are being blended for a unique
hybrid "Cyclates" program.
About the Author
Pilates Info provides detailed information
about Pilates exercises, equipment,
videos, classes, studios, certification,
and more. Pilates Info is affiliated
with Business Plans by Growthink.
|
