Why Beginner Pilates May Seem “Easy”, But Having a Pilates Instructor is Essential

By Dominic Pereira

If you’re new to Pilates, you might think it’s a straightforward exercise routine you can learn and practice on your own. While it’s true that beginner Pilates is easy to pick up, having a qualified instructor can make all the difference. In this blog post, we’ll discuss why having an instructor for beginner Pilates is essential and the benefits they can provide.

Benefits of a Pilates Instructor

According to Brooke Siler, author of “The Pilates Body”:
“As a beginner, it’s important to learn the basics of Pilates from a qualified instructor. They can help you understand the foundational principles of the exercise, and set you up for success in your practice.”

With that in mind, here are just a few of the many benefits a Pilates Instructor can bring to your routine:

Customized Workout Routine

A qualified Pilates instructor can create a workout routine tailored to your fitness level, goals, and physical limitations. They can also modify exercises to suit your needs, so you don’t risk injury. This means that you’ll be able to progress at a pace that suits you and get the most out of your practice.

Feedback on Technique

Pilates is all about proper form and technique. A qualified instructor can provide feedback on your form, ensuring you’re using the correct muscles and movements. This can help you avoid injury and get the most out of your workout.

“In Pilates, there are many small movements and adjustments that are difficult to pick up on your own. A qualified instructor can help you develop the mind-body connection necessary for Pilates and ensure that you’re engaging the correct muscles.” – Alycea Ungaro, founder of Real Pilates

Your instructor will help you to improve your proprioception, which is your body awareness and sense of where you are in space. This is a wonderful skill to have not just during class but in life.

Motivation and Accountability

It can be challenging to stay motivated when working out alone. However, having a scheduled class with an instructor can help keep you accountable and consistent in your practice. Additionally, a Pilates instructor can provide motivation when you’re feeling discouraged, pushing you to your limits safely.

Group classes are also a good motivator to remain consistent and a great way to meet new people from all walks of life.

Knowledge of the Exercise and Variations

A Pilates instructor has extensive knowledge of movement and can answer any questions you may have. They can also provide modifications and variations to keep your workouts exciting and challenging. This can help you progress in your practice and avoid hitting a plateau.

In conclusion, while beginner Pilates may seem easy to pick up on your own, having a qualified instructor is essential. From customized workouts to feedback on technique and motivation, a Pilates instructor can provide many benefits to help you achieve your fitness goals. So if you’re new to Pilates, consider working with an instructor to get the most out of your practice. With the right instructor, you’ll be well on your way to achieving a strong, flexible, and healthy body through Pilates.

Glossary

Plateau – A physical plateau is the literal inability to progress in a movement or sport. Overcoming Plateaus in Sports Performance (runtastic.com)

Join a Pilates Class at moveOn 89

Join our Pilates classes at our studio in Gardens, Cape Town, to improve your overall strength, mobility, flexibility and posture. At moveOn 89, we also offer a wide range of wellness classes, including HIIT and Fascial Fitness.

To join our classes, simply visit our class schedule to choose a time that works for you and book!