Exercise is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, but for many people, it's easy to put off. Whether you're a Pilates instructor or a client, you can make exercising more enjoyable by finding ways to make it more fun and rewarding. Here are some tips on how to do just that:
Create a playlist that motivates and inspires.
When working with clients, music can motivate and inspire them to get through the toughest workouts. It's a great way to get their minds off the pain they are feeling and help them focus on something other than themselves during class.
If you have clients who enjoy listening to music while they exercise, create a playlist with songs that motivate and inspire them. This will keep them engaged in their workout, so they don't mind doing it! Additionally, if you decide not only to create a playlist but also play it during class time (either through speakers or headphones), this can be used as an effective reward system for those who follow directions well throughout the session.
Remember to reward yourself.
Rewarding yourself is a great way to keep yourself motivated. It doesn't have to be expensive or time-consuming; a reward can be anything that makes you feel good. For example, if someone has been working hard on their Pilates practice and making progress, it's a good idea for them to reward themselves with something they enjoy doing in their free time. A simple reward like dinner with friends after class can improve your mental health!
Be patient with yourself.
You are not a machine, and your body will not respond to exercise in the same way as it used to when you were younger. Don't compare yourself to others or expect too much from yourself because this can lead to frustration and even injury if your expectations are unrealistic. Ask for help if necessary--and don't be afraid of looking silly!
Have fun!
- Make it a game. Try to beat your last score or see how long you can hold the plank position.
- Make it competitive. Challenge your clients to see who can complete more repetitions of an exercise before time runs out, or have them compete against each other in some way (who can do more reps/holds/etc.).
- Turn it into a social event by hosting group classes at the same time each week at different locations around town--it'll get people out of their homes and meet new people!
Put your phone away and focus on the task at hand.
- Put your phone away.
- Don't check your phone during the session.
- Don't check your phone before the session or while driving to or from it.
The point is to stay present; if you're not fully present, it's not worth doing.
If you can't be there, be sure to call in advance. Your clients will appreciate it!
Call with a positive attitude. Don't make excuses or cancel last minute. Remember to apologize if you do have to cancel them!
Be flexible. If your client wants to reschedule, be sure to work with them. Don't try to "hold firm" on certain dates or times. Be respectful of their needs and desires too!
Try something new every once in a while. It's good for both of you!
- You can try different exercises and ways to perform the same or new equipment. Your client may have never tried an exercise before or might be comfortable with it but want to see if there are better ways of performing the move.
- Get creative if your client is on board with trying something new! Make up some fun games where everyone tries something different--like Pilates bingo! Or ask them what they want from their workout today and let them pick one thing to help them achieve their goals (e.g., "Maybe focus on my lower abs today?").
It's okay if plans change - keep things positive.
Your clients may be busy and sometimes need to reschedule their sessions. This is normal, but it can be hard for both of you if you take it personally or let yourself get frustrated with them for not sticking to their original plan. Instead, try telling yourself this is an opportunity for growth: your client has now learned how important it is to be flexible! They have also shown themselves (and possibly even you) that they are capable of asking for help when they need it and setting healthy boundaries with others in their life who might try to pressure them into doing things that aren't good for them at the moment (like going out drinking every night). Be grateful when clients stay positive and open-minded during change; this will only benefit both parties down the road!
Make exercise fun and make it part of your everyday routine.
One of the most important aspects of exercise is to make it a habit. The more you can do it, the better. It's better than being bored and will help your body, mind, and spirit!
Another great thing about Pilates is connecting with others while doing it! You will make new friends while exercising in class or at home- whatever works best for you!
In addition to the above benefits, you can build up your core strength and flexibility. You will have a better posture and feel like a million bucks!
Conclusion
We hope these tips keep your clients engaged and motivated to exercise. Exercise is a great way to improve your health, but it can also be fun! The key is to find something that works for both of you. Remember that exercise doesn't have to mean going out for a jog or lifting weights at the gym--it can be as simple as taking a walk together through nature or doing some yoga poses at home (which we know from experience).
