|
To help you choose the safest Pilates alternative, the Pilates Method
Alliance recommends the following guidelines for evaluation of Pilates
instructors:
* Make sure the Pilates studio, gym or health club you choose has at least
one comprehensively trained Pilates teacher on staff at all times when the
facility is open for business.
* If you choose a studio with Pilates equipment for private lessons, you
should receive a comprehensive physical assessment and initial training session
prior to beginning the Pilates program. The assessment should include your
personal fitness goals and medical history, including injuries, plus a clear,
measurable assessment of your muscular strengths, weaknesses and imbalances.
* If you choose a group class with Pilates equipment, the PMA recommends
there be no more than six participants per comprehensively trained instructor.
Participants should receive physical assessments first, as above, and constant
supervision while using equipment. “Drop-ins” should be prohibited without
appropriate screening.
* For Pilates mat classes, the PMA recommends that no more than 10 to 12
participants are assigned to one comprehensively trained teacher. Classes should
be defined with appropriate levels for the clientele and should include
mandatory pre-screening for health related issues, as above.
The PMA also recommends that all programs teaching the Pilates Method of
exercise provide the following information to clients:
* The names and various parts of the Pilates apparatus.
* The names of each Pilates exercise.
* The appropriate sequencing of the exercises, repetitions, and use of
resistance.
* The appropriate set-up of the Pilates apparatus for each exercise,
including all possible safety issues.
* Proper spotting and verbal cuing techniques for each exercise.
* The components of each exercise.
* The objectives of each exercise.
* The design of the client’s specific program. Why a particular apparatus is
used for a particular exercise.
* How to effectively modify, break down and/or adapt an exercise for your
personal Pilates regimen.
The Pilates Method Alliance (PMA) is the international, not-for-profit
professional association dedicated to the teachings of Joseph H. and Clara
Pilates. The PMA’s mission is to protect the public by establishing
certification and continuing education standards for Pilates professionals.
Contact www.pilatesmethodalliance.org to find a trained Pilates teacher in
your area.
Courtesy of ARA Content
###
EDITOR’S NOTES:
The Increasing Popularity of Pilates
2000: 1.7 million Americans participating in programs
2001: 2.4 million Americans participating in programs
2002: 4.7 million Americans participating in programs
|
