3 Teaching Tips To Create A Deeper Reformer Practice For Your Clients
The best Pilates teachers don’t just stand at the front of the room, calling out cues. They connect with their clients. They curate the vibe (we’re all unofficial DJs over here). And above all, they’re experts at observing and responding.
To take your practice to the next level, you need to observe every detail that shapes both the environment and the experience. Because it’s these small details that will help deepen their practice, and your expertise as an instructor.
1. Create a welcoming space / Observe the space
Observing the studio atmosphere is our favourite (and the fastest) way to make your space more inviting and intentional. It can be as simple as making sure the water filter is filled, the tea is warm, and the room temperature is comfortable. Feel like your class could use a push to get through those glute-burning lunges? Respond by repositioning the fans and turning up the music. Notice that the ambience needs a shift during Savasana? Adapt by switching off the aircon and turning down the lights. Tranquility: achieved.2. Tailor your approach /
2. Observe your clients
You’ve observed the mood of the overall space. Now it’s time to observe your clients. A deeper practice requires a teacher who can adapt their teaching to meet individual needs. Be prepared to modify exercises on the spot if you notice your clients are struggling, or if an exercise doesn’t suit someone due to physical limitations. This can be as simple as modifying footbars for clients with longer legs, giving personal cues to particular individuals, and offering (consensual!) hands-on adjustments for those who need extra support.
3. Enhance connection and authenticity / Observe yourself
Class? Check. Clients. Check. Now to round out the trifecta, all that’s left to observe is yourself. Because a deeper practice also comes from observing your own presence in the room. If you notice your clients are feeling uncertain about a particular movement, adjust the tone of your voice to gently encourage them. If your class is looking wobbly during balance-focused exercises, provide stability by minimising your own movement. If the sweat patches are in full force, time your pauses between movements to offer a moment to breathe.
By observing the connections you have with your class, you’ll not only enhance their overall experience, but make your clients feel seen, supported, and comfortable to be themselves — sweat patches included.
Observing and responding to the nuanced needs of your clients transforms their experience, encouraging a deeper connection to their practice. But it also helps you become an even better teacher.
Another way you can become an even better teacher is through our Advanced Certification (Reformer). It offers an opportunity for dedicated instructors to deepen their expertise and become leaders in the Pilates community. So, if you’re ready to take this step in your professional development (and already have the words “detail-oriented” on your resume) join the waitlist below.
