How to Plan a Pilates Class
Planning a Pilates class involves several key steps to ensure it’s effective, safe, and enjoyable for participants. Preparation is always key to ensure that you create a flowing class. Teaching requires clear instructions, including modifications and progressions to suit people’s needs. Check out our top tips below on how to plan a Pilates class.
Define the Class Objective
The first step to plan a dynamic exercise plan is to determine the focus of the class. Whether it’s glute focused, upper body, or full body, all Pilates classes should derive and focus on improving core strength, flexibility, posture. Tailor the class based on participants’ skill levels (beginner, intermediate, or advanced) to create an appropriate class sequence for group or private Pilates classes.
Choose the Pilates Exercises
Select a variety of Pilates exercises that align with the class objective. Include exercises that target different muscle groups, balance, stability, and coordination. Ideally you should aim to incorporate all spinal movement including, flexion (curl up), rotation, extension, lateral flexion (side behind).
For a well-rounded Pilates sequence, you can also choose from The Class Plan’s wide variety of exercise videos categorized by type, intensity and focus. Select from The Class Plan’s extensive library of classic to dynamic exercises with or without props. Then, simply drag and drop them into our lesson plan template to create your own lesson plans.
Sequence the Exercise Plan
Arrange the exercises in a logical sequence, starting with a warm-up and progressing to more challenging movements. Then lead them into a cool down/stretch. Consider the flow and transition between exercises (spine changes if you’re on a reformer) to keep the class smooth and engaging.
Top Tip: Key to how to plan a Pilates class is adapting your teaching style to the ability of your class participants. Additionally, you may need to alter your approach to the class plan with longer transition periods or different intensities depending on your audience’s ability on the day.
Consider Modifications
Anticipate the needs of different participants by offering modifications and progressions for each exercise. This ensures inclusivity and allows participants to work at their own pace and ability level. In The Class Plan, we aim to offer a progression and regression for each exercise where applicable.
Incorporate Equipment and Small Props
Do you have access to Pilates equipment in your studio or gym? We recommend incorporating equipment like reformers, or props like resistance bands, soft Pilates balls, weights and magic circles into your class for added variety and challenge.
The Class Plans library of exercises is segmented into many categories for you to choose from. Using our sophisticated filter system, you can select which body part you want to use, which prop and which level. All at the touch of your fingertips!
Plan Cueing and Breathing
Pilates emphasises lateral breathing and alignment. Plan how you will cue participants to synchronise their breath with movements and maintain correct form throughout the class.
Include a Cool-Down and Stretch
Make sure you incorporate at least 5 minutes of stretch/cool down at the end of your class to aid relaxation and prevent muscle soreness. Again, you can select these exercises from our library.
Prepare Music and Props
Select appropriate background music that complements the pace and energy of the class. Here on The Class Plan you can select from our ready-made Spotify Playlists to keep your playlists fresh! If using props such as balls, bands & weights, ensure they are set up and ready for use.
Practice and Rehearse
Familiarize yourself with the class sequence and practice cueing the exercises before teaching your Pilates class. This helps you deliver clear instructions and corrections during the session.
Safety First
Always prioritise safety by asking the class if they have any injuries or anything you should know about at the beginning of class. It is also key to provide cues for set up. This is especially important when on a reformer to ensure set up with the correct springs, showing how to mount the carriage if standing, and demonstrate more complicated exercises first where necessary. Monitor and correct alignment, form and technique for your Pilates class members, offering modifications as needed. Encourage participants to listen to their bodies and work within their limits.
Evaluate and Adjust
After teaching the class, take time to reflect on what worked well and what could be improved. Use participant feedback to refine future classes and continue to evolve your teaching style.
The Class Plan- Revolutionizing How to Plan a Pilates Class.
If you are looking for an efficient way to plan a Pilates class, The Class Plan is the place to go! Design and customise your Pilates sequences, choosing from a huge range of over 1000 exercises easily accessible in our intuitively categorized library. Therefore, with us, you can master your Pilates planning and get teaching!
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