As we step into the first week of March, it is incredible to think that January and February have already passed. A new month brings fresh opportunities for reflection, and today on this Pilates Soulful Sunday, I want to talk about something that holds many of us back—fear. More specifically, the fear of making a mistake.
In Pilates, we are teaching movement. We learn exercises, we understand their purpose, and then we decide which exercises we are going to teach. But the biggest challenge arises in group classes, where every client is different. We naturally err on the side of caution, ensuring that what we teach is safe. The fitness industry has instilled this in us, safety first. And rightly so.
However, while safety is essential, we must also find a way to challenge our clients appropriately. Many people come to Pilates expecting to be pushed more than their bodies are ready for. They want intensity, but we know that intensity without control is not Pilates. So how do we balance this?
We stay safe, yes, but we must also be willing to guide our clients slightly beyond their comfort zone. Growth happens when we move forward, not when we stay still. This does not mean pushing into risk, it means looking at movement choices with fresh eyes. Where are the opportunities to develop strength, mobility, and confidence? How can we encourage exploration without compromising safety?
The key areas to consider are always the spine, neck, knees, and elbows. We do not want to overload these vulnerable areas. But we also need to identify where someone is not moving well and explore why. Sometimes the safest option is not avoidance but careful progression.
So my challenge to you today is this, do not let fear limit you. Re-examine what you are teaching and see if there is a way to take your clients a little further than they have been before. This does not always have to be physical progression. You can challenge your clients through breath, awareness, and control.
For example, in my class yesterday morning, I used leg circles as an opportunity to explore breath. Instead of focusing purely on range or resistance, I challenged the group to match their breath to movement, two leg circles to inhale, two to exhale. Then I encouraged them to try three, expanding their breath capacity while maintaining fluidity in movement.
This small shift in focus created a different kind of challenge, one that deepened their experience without increasing risk.
As we enter this new week, I encourage you to reflect on where you may be holding back due to fear. Teach the bodies in front of you, honour their needs, but also find ways to help them grow. Because just like in life, in Pilates, true progress happens when we embrace a little discomfort and step forward with confidence.
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