Pilates: One Size Doesn't Fit All

Last year, a friend told me how excited her mother was to start Pilates at a new reformer studio that had just opened up in her suburb.  Only a few weeks later, when I checked in with my friend, her mother had already given up Pilates after 2 sessions. Apparently, she had knee issues and was hoping to strengthen her knees, but the classes involved lots of kneeling, and despite telling her instructor about her limitations, no modifications or alternative exercises were offered to her. She was left feeling sore, disappointed, and frustrated that she wouldn't be able to experience all the benefits of Pilates that she had heard about. At 72, she wanted to stay as strong and healthy as possible as she aged and wasn't sure what she should do if Pilates was off limits to her. This makes me furious because any decent Pilates instructor should be able to offer modifications to any client who needs them for whatever reason. One size really doesn't fit all when it comes to Pilates, and if you are dealing with pain or an injury, like my friend's Mum, a Pilates program designed specifically for you is essential if you want to see results. I'm going to share with you the different ways my clients learn Pilates. Everyone learns differently, and each client must learn in a way that is the most efficient and effective for them.

1-on-1 Virtual Sessions Produce Results

Unlike a large group Pilates class with everyone doing the same thing at the same time, a 1 on 1 virtual session is tailored to your body, your goals, and your needs. You don't have to keep up with or slow down for anyone else.   A 1-hour initial assessment is necessary to begin, during which I will review your past medical history, conduct a postural assessment, and examine your movement patterns. You will learn Pilates breathing techniques and how to connect your abdominal muscles. We then talk about what your goals are for Pilates and the best way for you to achieve them. I then design a Pilates program for you based on your individual needs, which I take you through at your next 1 on 1 virtual session. I supervise you closely and offer guidance, support, and suggest minor adjustments as you move to ensure you gain the maximum benefit from each session. Progressions happen when you are ready, and rest is taken when needed. Everything is tailored to you!

Choose The Regularity and Length of Your Sessions

A common question I hear all the time is "How many virtual sessions should I do each week?"  This very much depends on your goals and what other movement you are doing in your life. Session lengths range from 15 mins for clients dealing with chronic pain or fatigue who are just starting, to 30 mins or 45 mins. If you are in pain and want to overcome it as soon as possible, you could have 2 x 30 mins virtual sessions with me per week and use my library of on-demand videos between sessions.  Alternatively, you could also do a 45 mins session every 3 weeks and follow the on-demand videos several times per week.  I have a few clients in their 60s who are very active with sport and want to prevent injury, so have 3 x 30 min virtual sessions per week to keep them doing what they love for as long as possible. It all depends on what you want to achieve. What I don't recommend is having 1 x 30 mins session per week and doing nothing else at all. You need to be reinforcing what you are learning every couple of days to overcome pain and achieve your goals.

Learn Independently If You Prefer

Some people learn Pilates best by following my library of on-demand videos. Specifically designed to help you overcome pain or injury, the videos start from the very beginning with Pilates Breathing Techniques and How to Connect Your Abdominal Muscles. This is the same as I would teach you in person, so it's ideal for revision if you are starting virtual sessions. The detailed videos are in 6 categories from Basics to Advanced, with everything in between.  Improve your balance, coordination, and foot strength as you strengthen your core and glutes. If you want to work at your own pace in the comfort of your own home, then this method of learning is for you. I'm also available via email to answer any questions you may have along the way.

If you are dealing with chronic pain or injury and are ready to overcome it through Pilates, email me at [email protected] .  Alternatively, you can book an Initial Assessment with me here or  take the free 10 day trial of JS Mind Body Pilates to access my library of on-demand videos, and start straight away.  It would be my pleasure to assist you to overcoming pain and living the life pain-free life you deserve!