As a seasoned Pilates teacher, I frequently come across the eagerness of individuals new to Pilates, ready to delve into the intricacies of the Reformer, despite having no formal training yet.
The allure is understandable; the Reformer is a dynamic and engaging apparatus that significantly expands the repertoire of exercises available to a Pilates teacher. However, I always emphasise the indispensable value of first mastering matwork before transitioning to the Reformer.
The wisdom behind this guidance is rooted in the fundamental philosophy envisioned by Joseph Pilates. The Reformer was ingeniously designed to augment the mat exercises, providing a framework that can either assist or challenge the practitioner based on their proficiency and needs. It's a tool to deepen our understanding and performance of the matwork exercises. Therefore, without a solid grounding in matwork, engaging with the Reformer becomes a mere mechanical act devoid of the underlying principles that make Pilates a holistic and transformative practice.
Here are a few compelling reasons why a thorough understanding of matwork is paramount before stepping onto the Reformer:
1. Understanding the Core Principles:
Matwork is the cornerstone where one learns the core Pilates principles such as centering, control, flow, breath, precision, and concentration. It is where we cultivate the awareness and discipline that inform a meaningful practice on the Reformer.
2. Building a Strong Foundation:
The simplicity of matwork belies its potency in building a strong foundation. It challenges us to utilise our own body weight and control through a range of motions, laying the groundwork for the added resistance and complexity the Reformer introduces.
3. Transference of Skills:
The skills honed on the mat are directly transferable to the Reformer. A proficient understanding of matwork exercises enriches the experience on the Reformer, ensuring it is utilised as a tool for deepening practice rather than a crutch.
4. Enhancing Teaching Competency:
As Pilates teachers, our aim is to guide our students towards a nuanced and enriching practice. A solid matwork foundation equips us with the necessary knowledge and experience to utilise the Reformer effectively in addressing the diverse needs of our students.
5. Preserving the Integrity of the Method:
Adhering to the progression from mat to Reformer ensures we are honouring the integrity and wisdom inherent in the Pilates method, fostering a practice that is both authentic and beneficial.
Embarking on the journey through matwork before transitioning to the Reformer is not merely a tradition, but a pathway ensuring that we, as Pilates teachers, are well-versed, competent, and capable of delivering the profound benefits the Pilates method offers. It is through this disciplined progression that we can truly appreciate the symbiotic relationship between matwork and the Reformer, embodying the essence of Pilates in our teaching and practice.
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