(ARA) - The Pilates Method of body conditioning, which strengthens both the body and mind, has been around since the 1920s, but in just the past couple of years, interest in the method has grown by leaps and bounds. As a result, so have the number of instructors. But according to Kevin Bowen, co-founder of the Miami, Fla., based Pilates Method Alliance (PMA), the national not-for-profit trade association of Pilates professionals, not all of them are qualified to teach Pilates.
“The Pilates Method is safely taught only by teachers comprehensively trained in the Pilates Method and the use of Pilates equipment, both of which differ significantly from other exercise systems,” says Bowen.
Developed in the 1920s by German-born Joseph and Clara Pilates, the Pilates Method is an exercise system that focuses on precise, controlled movements and breathing, using a special spring-driven apparatus. Pilates training improves strength, balance, posture, and flexibility. It also helps to achieve elongation of muscles. Among the first to use the Pilates Method were dancers such as Martha Graham and George Balanchine. Today, many athletes use it as well. They include basketball star Jason Kidd and figure skater Kristi Yamaguchi.
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.
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