Is Your Pilates Program Up to Par?

Is your pilates program all it can be, or do you suspect that it is somehow not quite up to par? The Pilates Method Alliance (PMA), an organization committed to promoting and ensuring the quality of pilates instructional training programs around the world, has compiled a list of questions that you should consider in evaluating your own pilates program. If you suspect that your pilates program is not quite what it should be, you can contact the PMA to find a better-qualified instructor or program, and to provide the organization with feedback regarding your experience. If your pilates program is n

not a member of the PMA, you can still use the organization as a valuable resource to find higher quality programs or instructors in your area.

So how do you know if your pilates program is not quite up to par? The PMA has compiled an extensive list of things you should consider when making your final evaluation as to the quality of the program you are participating in. First, consider whether you feel you have received the basic instruction and information necessary to become familiarized with pilates. Were you taught the names of the various pilates routines, apparatus, and machines? Have you been told the names of all the exercises you are learning? The sequence of pilates movements should progress in a natural manner. If you notice that the sequence of the pilates movements that you are being taught do not feel natural, you may want to conduct further research and investigation. Another important consideration is safety. Do you feel safe while practicing pilates? If you use any pilates apparatus, do you feel you are using them with safety in mind? Have you been shown the proper way to execute movements, and have you been taught how to modify movements to fit your particular fitness level? Pilates should not hurt or cause injury. If you feel that your pilates program is somehow unsafe, or you feel pressured to perform movements that are too difficult for your physical condition, consider contacting the PMA for further information regarding safety and perhaps to receive recommendations for other pilates programs in your area.

Another important consideration in evaluating your pilates program is to examine the quality of instruction. Ideally, your pilates instructor should provide you with all the names of the movements you are completing. Your instructor should provide you with verbal cues for each movement, and should provide you with one on one spotting to help you execute moves and to prevent injury. A good instructor will also walk you through each movement. The instructor should be able to teach you the components of each movement. You should know the objectives of each movement as well. Finally, your instructor should always be ready and willing to modify or adapt certain movements for your particular fitness level. If your instructor seems unable to accommodate you, consult the PMA for recommendations of other instructors. You should feel comfortable enough with your instructor to receive proper training and to have your all your questions and concerns addressed and discussed openly.