How to teach with confidence from day one.
So, you’re stepping into the world of teaching. We bet we know how you feel. Equal parts exhilarated and terrified? Yep, that checks out.
Here’s the good news: even if you’re shaking in your active wear right now, with the right mindset and strategies, you can feel immense confidence…even if it’s your very first day teaching.
Take it from our founder, Emma Seibold, and our head of Teacher Training, Liana Brady — they’ve got the tips to help you shine as a new instructor.
Tips from Emma Seibold, Founder of Barre Body
1) Celebrate yourself and express your enthusiasm.
Starting your teaching career is a milestone worth celebrating. Give yourself credit for your accomplishments and maintain a positive and enthusiastic attitude. This energy will resonate with studio owners and clients alike. Take the initiative to meet studio owners, network, and present yourself in the best light. Consider creating a resume video showcasing your teaching style and enthusiasm. This proactive approach can make a lasting impression and open doors to permanent classes.
2) Use social media to your advantage.
Social media is a powerful tool for self-promotion. Create a professional profile that highlights your unique teaching style and personality. Share videos, tips, and testimonials to build a following and attract potential clients. By consistently posting engaging content, you’ll establish yourself as a passionate and knowledgeable instructor.
3) Take up on covers.
In the beginning, volunteering for cover classes is an excellent way to gain experience and visibility. Show up when needed, express your eagerness to teach, and use these opportunities to practice and refine your skills. This not only helps you gain confidence but also increases your chances of securing permanent classes and creating a flexible schedule.
4) Be ok with not being perfect.
Remember, practice makes perfect. It’s essential to get comfortable with your repertoire and build your teaching skillset. Start with a few class plans and gradually expand your knowledge and confidence. Embrace mistakes as learning opportunities, and don’t be afraid to ask for feedback. This approach will help you grow and improve continuously.
5) Ask for feedback.
Feedback from more experienced teachers is invaluable. Invite them to your classes and seek their input. Constructive criticism is a gift that can accelerate your growth and help you refine your teaching techniques. Embrace this feedback and use it to become a better instructor.
6) Treat clients like gold.
Every client is significant, and making them feel valued is crucial. Connect with your clients before and after classes, showing genuine interest in their well-being and progress. Personal attention and a caring attitude can turn one-time visitors into loyal clients, enhancing your reputation as a dedicated and attentive instructor.
Tips from Liana Brady, Head of Teacher Training
1) Learn from others.
Attending other instructors’ classes is a fantastic way to learn. Observe their techniques, how they cue movements, and handle different situations. Applying these observations to your teaching can enhance your skills and confidence. Seeing how others manage their classes can provide new ideas and approaches that you can incorporate into your own teaching style.
2) Practice, practice, practice.
Familiarity with the exercises you teach is crucial. Spend time on your mat or reformer, practising and cueing out loud. Knowing an exercise inside and out helps you teach it with ease and assurance. The more you practice, the more confident you will become in delivering clear and effective instructions to your clients.
3) Teach regularly.
Consistent teaching is key to building confidence. If you’re starting with only a few classes a week, find opportunities to teach more, even if it’s offering discounted private sessions to friends or family. The more you teach, the faster you’ll improve and the more confident you’ll become. Regular teaching practice accelerates your learning and helps you adapt to different client needs and class dynamics.
By following these tips from both Emma and Liana, and continuously seeking opportunities to learn and grow, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a confident and successful instructor. Remember, every great teacher started somewhere, and with dedication and enthusiasm, you’ll soon find your stride in the world of teaching.
When you enrol in Barre Body Teacher Training, you don’t only learn things like anatomy, sequencing, and modifications — we also teach you how to actually teach. (That’s our secret sauce.) Walk away with techniques, tips, and tricks that help you find your voice, celebrate your personality, and give you a smooth (and confident!) start to your teaching career.
Explore our courses and programs to find the perfect fit for you.
