The way you begin a Pilates session sets the tone for the entire class. Whether it’s a group session in a busy fitness club or a one-to-one private session, your opening should establish clarity, purpose, and confidence. A strong start ensures that clients know where they are, who you are, and what they can expect from the session.
Establishing the Space and Your Role
In a large fitness club, it’s essential to confirm that everyone is in the right class. Many facilities run multiple classes at the same time, so begin by clearly stating:
That this is a Pilates class.
That you are the teacher.
A brief introduction to Pilates for those who are new.
Even in a familiar studio setting, every class may have a mix of regulars and newcomers. For those new to Pilates, a short explanation helps them understand what to expect. My go-to phrase is:
"Pilates is about getting your body working better, moving better, and improving balance. My job is to help you find the muscles you’re not using. Every day, we rely on certain muscles more than others, and over time, imbalances develop. Today, we’re here to bring more balance back into the body."
Acknowledge Different Backgrounds and Pilates Styles
Not every client will have the same Pilates experience. Some may have attended other classes with a different teaching style, so it’s worth addressing this early on:
"Just like yoga has different styles, Pilates does too. If you’ve done Pilates before, you might find some things here slightly different. My approach is to help you connect with your body in a way that feels effective for you."
This sets expectations and reassures them that differences in cueing or sequencing aren’t about right or wrong—they’re about approach.
Encouraging Awareness and Permission to Modify
Clients need to feel comfortable modifying movements, so it’s important to give them permission to do so:
"If anything doesn’t feel right for your body today, feel free to adjust. I’ll offer modifications, and if something isn’t working for you, let me know so we can find an alternative."
This not only gives them control over their own movement experience but also reinforces that Pilates is adaptable to individual needs.
Your Role in a Pilates Group Class: Observing, Not Leading
A common mistake in group classes is for the teacher to do the class with the clients rather than teaching the class. If you demonstrate everything, clients will follow you instead of learning to think and connect with their own movements. Instead, set up the movement, then start walking around and observing:
Are they setting up correctly?
Are they engaging the right muscles?
Are they rushing or holding unnecessary tension?
Your job is not just to cue but to correct and refine movement. Moving around the room allows you to give individual feedback and guide clients to learn the Pilates method, rather than simply mimicking exercises.
One-to-One Sessions: A Personalised Approach
In a private session, the focus shifts entirely to the individual. While a group class allows for general corrections, a one-to-one session should be fully personalised.
Start by gathering information:
"How are you feeling today?"
"Has anything changed since our last session?"
"Do you have any areas you’d like to focus on?"
The body is different every day, and so Pilates should adapt accordingly. A private session isn’t just about running through exercises—it’s about understanding the person in front of you and choosing movements that will best serve their body today.
Final Thoughts: Start with Intention
Whether in a group setting or a private session, the start of your class should:✔ Clearly define what Pilates is and what they can expect.✔ Acknowledge different levels of experience and styles.✔ Encourage body awareness and permission to modify.✔ Establish your role as a teacher, not a demonstrator.✔ In one-to-one sessions, take time to check in with the client.
A well-structured beginning ensures that clients feel confident, engaged, and ready to move with purpose. How you start sets the tone for the learning experience ahead—so make it count!
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