For many of our clients, stepping into their first Pilates class can be a terrifying thing. They don’t know what to expect, where to go, what to bring, or where to stand (Lord forbid they take someone’s “spot”). All of these unknowns cause unnecessary anxiety and could potentially keep a client from attending your class.After several years of teaching Pilates, and fielding the same nervous questions over and over again, I created this list of “Eight Things To Know Before Attending Your First Pilates Class.” This information is great to post digitally on your website, hang up in the studio, or email to new clients when the register for their first class. It will not only help ease their anxiety, but make your job a lot easier as well!
- Show up early. Make sure you give yourself plenty of time to get situated before your first class. There may be paperwork for you to sign, equipment to set up, plus a restroom stop never hurts. You don’t want to start class flustered because you arrived right as the instructor pushed play on the stereo.
- Dress the part. There are no Pilates specific clothes you need to wear to class (but feel free to go on a lululemon shopping spree anyways), but it definitely helps to wear clothes that you feel comfortable in. For bottoms, go with pants that fit snuggly below the knee and make sure your top won’t ride up when you are in a plank.
- Don’t be shy. If your instructor isn’t standing by the door when you walk in, make it a point to say hi to him/her before class starts. We love meeting new students and want to make sure we have time to answer any questions you may have before class. This will also let the instructor know to keep an eye out for you so they can give you extra technique tips along the way!
- Don’t hide in the back of the room. Make sure you find a spot where you can easily hear and see the instructor. This will make sure you maximize your workout and avoid injury.
- Fuel up ahead of time. Don’t forget to have a light easily digestible snack about 30 minutes to an hour prior to class if it’s been awhile since your last meal. When you exert as much energy as you do during a tough Pilates class, it is essential to have something in your stomach, especially for early morning classes.
- Faster isn’t always better. Pilates was originally called “Contrology” and is all about moving with precision. Slow down and resist the urge to rush through your movements. This will help you get the most out of every exercise.
[bctt tweet=”Pilates was originally called “Contrology” and is all about moving with precision” username=”gxunited”] - Focus on posture. Great posture is the foundation of every Pilates class. Focus on keeping your core engaged and shoulders down throughout every exercise. This will not only help you get the most out of your workout, but help you maintain great posture when you leave class as well.
- Stick with it. Mr. Pilates himself said, “In 10 sessions, you will feel the difference. In 20, you will see the difference. And in 20, you’ll be on your way to a having a whole new body.” So even if you wake up sore the day after your first Pilates class, stick with it and your body, mind, and soul will thank you for it!
Hopefully, these tips will help calm your client’s fears and make their first class with you enjoyable, safe, and effective!
What other great tips do you have for calming your newbies fears?
Share in the comments below!
