Now that I am new Instructor, how do I create classes?

Now that I am a Newly Certified Pilates Instructor How to: create classes

Creating classes is really fun and kind of intimidating at first. My goal for every single class I ever teach is to make sure the class is accessible and challenging for each client in the class.  Today I am going to give you a few tips on how to build a class for a diverse group of clients.  

I like to first establish what level of clients I have in the class, mostly beginners, intermediates or advanced.  Then I like to build my class based on the medium level of those clients.  Sometimes as an instructor I know in advance who will be in my class but most of the time I know who the clients are at showtime so I am building as I go.  At the beginning of the class, while the clients are warming up I assess the medium level by adding modifications to challenge and simplify exercises, this usually gives me a feel for how to move forward.  

Once I know what level I am teaching then I like to work on flow and transitions, which in my opinion is the difference between a good teacher and a great teacher.  My goal is always quick transitions flowing from one thing to the next in the shortest amount of time.  I try to change the springs as little as possible and only use a prop once.  For example, once the box is on the reformer and you do everything you want to do with it, take it off and don’t use it again.  

Next is pace.  I try to keep the tempo the same throughout the workout.  The easiest way to do this is to tell the clients when to inhale and exhale every single time.  Sometimes it’s nice to teach a faster paced workout with lots and lots of exercises and sometimes it’s nice to teach slow breathy class focusing on the control and holds.  It is my thoughts that you don’t mix the two.  Choose the tempo at the beginning of the class and stick to it.

The last tip for creating a class with a diverse group is always give options for modifications.  I like to build exercises starting with the easiest variation and slowly add challenges to it to make it harder while reminding my clients that they can stay in the easier version if they need to depending on how their body is feeling that day.  

These are a few tips for creating classes.  I love teaching classes and creating something new each time.  If you have any questions please feel free to reach out.

High Fives & Hugs

Jamie