Especially during these current economic struggles, businesses are offering deals and significant discounts to keep the cash flowing in any way they can. But if you see Pilates classes offered for too low a price, beware! In the state of Arizona it is not currently a requirement to be certified to teach Pilates, so chances are the instructor isn’t trained specifically to teach the Pilates method. Many fitness professionals think they have enough training to teach Pilates, and many of the large gyms offer quick weekend-long certification programs. But with the influx of injuries from incompetent instructors this requirement may soon be changed. As with any fitness regimen, be cautious and ask questions: is the instructor certified? And if so, where? Does the program require at least 450 hours for certification? (For a list of accredited teacher training programs and other requirements for a credible teacher training program, visit www.pilatesmethodallince.org). If it hurts, don’t do it; ask the instructor for a modification or what you may be doing wrong. If the problem isn’t solved, lie in a child’s pose and wait for the next exercise. You don’t have to risk injury in order for Pilates to be affordable, and here are a few economical suggestions:
1). JOIN GROUP MAT CLASSES at a private Pilates studio, offered at various days and times throughout the week. The classes are still small enough for the instructor to keep an eye on each person, and the price is only $15-$20 a class!
2). JOIN A DUET/QUARTET or grab a group of up to four of your friends for a Pilates reformer class. Class size is limited to four students because the equipment is a bit more dangerous, and the instructor needs to be able to keep an eye on everyone. About $55/person per class
3). ONCE A WEEK PRIVATE combined with at-home practice can be a much more affordable way to get the feedback on proper placement you need, without breaking the bank. Results may not be seen as quickly, but this makes the most sense for those with specific disorders or physical anomalies that require close one-on-one attention.
4). GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR SESSION by being mentally present in the moment. Listen to your body, and listen to the corrections your instructor gives to other students, because chances are you could use the correction as well. Practice at home to retain your muscle memory so that your instructor can give you new feedback, and you can progress faster.
If you live in or around the North Scottsdale area and are looking for a reliable, fully-certified Pilates instructor, visit Katrina Natori’s website at www.thepilatesbodies.com for more information.
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