Every client is unique and will teach you something as long as you stay open for the lesson. This is the lesson I learned from my dear friend and client, Charles.
If you have ever driven through Santiago Canyon, you know how hilly it is and you have likely seen those crazy cyclist (me) slogging up those hills. Charles is a bigger guy so when he joined us on the ride I assumed it would be a challenge for him. Not true! He is incredibly strong. We waited only briefly for him to catch up, much to my chagrin since I needed the rest!
In Pilates, Charles can use double and triple the springs that is considered the norm. So where do we go from here? The muscles that are strong on Charles are his global muscles, i.e. quadriceps, biceps etc…but his obliques, transverse and lateral stabilizers are weaker.
Pilates is the perfect answer!
I use LIGHTER springs to challenge those smaller muscles and yes it is a challenge, can you hear my evil laugh? I also focus on the lateral muscles since his other activities like cycling do not work this area. He is also a swimmer so we work on the SITS muscles or rotator cuff muscles of the shoulder. The hour session is very fun and energetic, Charles is not shy of hard work and he always puts 150% into each work out. As a Pilates practitioner can we ask for more?
As a Teacher Trainer, you are at the beginning of your journey of learning the basics of Pilates and anatomy, observing classes, and teaching. It’s a lot to absorb and can be overwhelming so, of course, I’m going to ask you to do one more thing. Take time to learn from your clients! Some of them will be your best and most valuable teachers. What they say will be important but what they do and how they move will be key to an effective Pilates program.
Let’s help them stay fit, strong and healthy for life!
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