Category: Uncategorized

Are you looking for a unique workout on the Reformer to strengthen and tone your thighs?

Thigh Stretch on the Reformer is a great exercise to enhance flexibility and range of motion and also promote better posture and overall lower body strength. Let’s take a closer look at the key benefits as Seoyeon Erin Her — Merrithew^® Instructor Trainer and the co-founder of THE FIT Co., Merrithew Host Training Center in Seol, South Korea — guides us through an advanced level thigh stretch repertoire on the Reformer from the STOTT PILATES^® Advanced Reformer Course.

Click to watch the Full Video

 

What are the benefits of Thigh Stretch on the Reformer?

Increased flexibility

Reformer-based thigh stretches target the major muscles of the thighs, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and hip flexors. Consistent practice can lead to improved flexibility in these areas, allowing you to perform daily activities with ease and grace.

Improved range of motion

This workout helps to elongate the muscles and mobilize the joints, leading to an increased range of motion. Enhanced flexibility and range of motion contribute to better performance in other exercises and activities, reducing the risk of injuries.

Enhanced posture

Tightness in the thigh muscles can contribute to poor posture. Incorporating thigh stretches into your routine can help alleviate muscle imbalances and promote a more upright and aligned posture.

Strengthening and toning

While primarily focusing on stretching, thigh exercises on the Reformer also engage the inner thigh muscles, leading to toning and strengthening of the thighs. Building thigh strength improves overall stability and helps in everyday movements and physical activities.

By incorporating Thigh Stretches on the Reformer into your fitness regimen, you can unlock the transformative power of this exericise, promoting better posture, increased stability, and overall lower body strength.

Remember to listen to your body, start slowly, and gradually increase the intensity of your workouts over time.

 

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2023-07-06/exercise-of-the-month-thigh-stretch-on-the-reformer

Feeling sore after a workout is one of the most common things exercisers face. Many people believe that it can indicate that you had a good workout, but for some, it could be a setback in their fitness progress.

We asked Merrithew^® Instructor Trainer Lisa Kaye to discuss muscle soreness, why it happens and some tips to relieve it.

 

Why do I feel sore after exercising and is this the sign of a good workout?

“There are a lot of reasons why your muscles feel sore after a workout. However, contrary to popular belief, you don’t necessarily need to feel sore after exercise to prove you’ve had a good workout.

“One of the most common reasons for muscle soreness is if you’re starting a new workout program. If your first session is particularly intense or long, you are likely to experience Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS) in the next hours or a day or two after exercise,” Lisa explains.

“But being sore doesn’t necessarily mean you’ve had a more effective workout – it usually means you’re doing something your muscles aren’t used to. So if you regularly exercise and find you aren’t feeling as sore after your session, it’s a key indicator that your muscles have become better at dealing with the strain and are recovering from the activity,” Lisa says.

What is Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness?

DOMS is usually a positive sign for exercisers. It is best described as when your muscles feel sore or strained. You might feel this after an intense workout and that just indicates that your muscles are progressing to a stronger state. DOMS is one of the most common after-effects when you start a new training program or indulge in an intense workout.

Tips for dealing with muscle soreness after a workout

Feeling sore after a workout can make it difficult for some to continue with their fitness journey. But rest assured, mild soreness is common for exercisers of any level. The good news is there are some ways to manage the pain.

Stretch: Gentle stretching after the workout helps reduce lactic acid build-up which is the main cause of soreness. Try some simple stretches like arm circles, leg swings and spinal twists. The Foam Roller^™ is a great tool for reducing muscle soreness and improving post-workout recovery. Try these exercises.

Take it easy: Push yourself, but don’t be too hard, especially if you’re a beginner. Choose a workout program that’s designed for your fitness level. Start with a beginner-friendly program and progress once you feel ready

Cool-down: The cool-down phase is the most important post-workout aspect. Reserve at least 10 minutes at the end of every workout to do some light stretching or for an easy cool-down walk or jog.

Why do I feel less sore after a Pilates workout?

Pilates is one of the most effective low-impact workouts and it’s extremely effective at building participants’ strength without causing too much muscle soreness, Lisa says.

“With Pilates, our aim is to progress you through a series of body weight and spring resistance exercises that will challenge and improve your balance, mobility, core strength and dynamic stability. It will help you work on muscle strength and fluidity rather than feeling sore,” Lisa explains.

 

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2023-04-17/ask-the-expert-should-i-feel-sore-after-a-workout-and-tips-on-how-to-relieve-it

While establishing IK Pilates in 2018 – Irina Karnaukh had one goal, to create the most comfortable conditions for people who came to her studio. She poured her heart and soul into the studio and its values exude the same.

Located in the heart of the beautiful Kharkiv city, the studio is simple yet very well-equipped. You’ll fall in love as soon as you walk in. The warm wooden flooring, pastel floral paintings, clean aesthetics, and of course, the smiling faces of the IK Pilates team are what make this studio one of a kind.

Despite the war tension in Ukraine, Irina and her team are going strong and training everyone who walks into their studio without second thoughts. Passion? Dedication? Love? What keeps the IK Pilates team glued together and keeps their spirit alive without surrendering to the adversity of the situation? We had the honor of interviewing the studio owner Irina Karnaukh where she shares the inspiring story of IK Pilates.

Can you provide some backstory on IK Pilates Studio’s inception and goals?

“IK Pilates Studio is born out of love. Love not just for sports, for movement, but love for people, the desire to help and bring light and goodness. It’s more than a studio, it’s our family.” says Irina.

“I wanted the studio to be a place where people can come and unwind themselves through mindful movement. This studio is where people can forget everything else and just exist in this little world that we’ve created. I’ve worked hard to achieve where we are today. I stay on top of the latest Pilates education and training to make sure my clients experience the best.” says Irina.

Tell us more about your location and what makes the studio in Kharkiv, Ukraine special.

“The studio is definitely exceptional. How do we know this you may ask? It is because our clients tell us how they feel when they work out here. Hearing them describe how much they love this place is one of our greatest joys and strengths.” explains Irina. “Our team is not just driven by a professional motive, there is a genuine desire to help people feel better and stronger and we’re proud of that”

How has your team of instructors coped with the adversity of the given circumstances?

“In February 2022, when the war began in Ukraine, many people left the city which is just 30 km away from the border with Russia. But many people stayed in the city, including some instructors and clients.”

“Anna, Mariya, Pilates trainers, and massage therapist Ekaterina stayed in the city to help and support people, and later even had Pilates sessions for our clients who also decided to stay. This made me realize how lucky I am to be able to work with a team that is so passionate about what they do.”

“One thing we all know for sure is that together, with each other’s support we can take it one day at a time and not get lost in this whirlwind of violent events.” Irina mentions that they all try to stay in touch as much as possible, both among themselves and their clients which keeps them all motivated.

What do you think are the driving factors that motivate the instructors and clients to show up despite the challenges?

“The desire to live a healthy life and feel alive is why people show up at our studio every day. A lot has changed for us within just one year. We have come to the point where our studio is not just about making money and profit, it is a haven for people to take a break from the chaos and just focus on movement, and enjoy the peace, even if it is just for a while” says Irina.

What would you say is the most important thing that has glued everyone together through these tough times?

“The tough times are like a filter. What truly matters to us retains, everything that is unnecessary passes through. These times made us realize what truly matters to us, and that is support from one another. Together we are strong and able to achieve wonderful things. Knowing that you are not alone and there are people nearby who can resonate with your pain makes you feel like you all belong together. That feeling is unmatched”

Lastly, is there a message you would like to share with the world, specifically with the Pilates community?

“We would like people to never lose the essence of the very emotions that make us all humans- sensitivity, empathy, and caution towards each other. One more thing I’d like to add is that we all need to make the most out of the present moment because the future is uncertain. You have to appreciate what you have and strive to bring goodness to the world.” says Irina. “Appreciate your loved ones and always remember, there is nothing more important than a healthy body “

It isn’t every day that we come across studios like IK Pilates. It gives us immense joy to see their undying spirit and passion for Pilates. Thank you IK Pilates, for being a source of inspiration to the entire Pilates community. We wish Irina and her team all the best.

 

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2023-02-17/a-portrait-of-bravery-and-inspiration-the-story-of-ik-pilates-studio-ukraine

“Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” – Helen Keller

Group workouts and Pilates sessions continue to rise in popularity for all the right reasons. It is a great way to attract more clients and form a loyal client base. Group workout sessions make it easier for fitness enthusiasts to stay connected with like-minded people from the community, thereby improving motivation.

Petra Weitzel, the founder, and owner of Pewe Sports – Pilates Zentrum, a Merrithew^® Host Training Center in Germany, shares some integral tips to keep in mind before organizing a group Pilates session and training more than one person at a time.

Make sure everyone is on the same page

“Group Pilates sessions are all about coordination and sync. It is crucial to ensure that everyone you’re training in the group session is at the same fitness level. It can become difficult to train a group if one person has back pain or shoulder pain.“ says Petra Weitzel, STOTT PILATES^® Certified Group Matwork Specialist. “I recommend knowing everyone’s preferences and physical conditions beforehand and then grouping them together.”

Cultivate a warm and welcoming atmosphere

“Your studio space will set the pace of the workout and it plays a huge role in how your clients feel during the session. The secret to a productive workout session is lots of fresh air coming through, the room temperature should be just right, and lots of natural light. Organize any Pilates equipment you will use during the class such as the Stability Ball^™ or Fitness Circle^® to ensure there is no clutter. Your clients will love this!”

Use proper cueing

“I cannot stress enough how important cueing is, especially when you are training more than one person. This helps you structure the class by guiding everyone to ensure group coordination and improving your client’s awareness of their body position.”

We also asked her to shed light on one of the most common questions people ask, ‘how long until we see results from Pilates?’

“Honestly, it is very different from person to person. It also depends on your motivation and goals. Are you motivated enough to do Pilates every day? Or are you someone who prefers doing it just once a week? Are you willing you challenge yourself with new exercises? All these factors play a huge role in your progress.” she said “As Joseph Pilates said, you will feel better in ten sessions, look better in twenty sessions, and have a completely new body in thirty sessions.”

 

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2023-02-09/what-are-the-top-three-tips-for-conducting-a-successful-group-pilates-session

One of the most important things while curating an exercise program for your client is to keep in mind that every client is different and there is no standard program that works for all.

We asked Merrithew^® Master Instructor Trainer, Pablo Vera, to help us identify the core elements that play an important role in determining an ideal workout plan for your clients and can vary depending on your client’s fitness level.

“Movement emerges from the interaction between 3 main factors: individual, task, and the environment. Individual capabilities to interact with the demands during a specific activity and the environment will determine the functional capacity.” says Pablo Vera.

Individual

It is crucial to get information about the client’s biopsychosocial status. This concept is related to physical capabilities of the person such as breathing pattern, mobility, flexibility, strength, endurance, power. Moreover, factors such as stress or anxiety and their beliefs and individual expectations also need to be considered before you chalk out a plan for them. You can use every exercise as an assessment to gather information. An ideal comparison of the individual’s progress from the first sessions vs the future sessions is a great way to identify what works for them.

Task

Ask your clients about the main activities they perform on an everyday basis. Also, consider the sports they love to practice. Once you know their movement patterns, you can work on a routine that helps them improve the muscle functionality in those particular areas.

Challenges

It is crucial to know the different kinds of environments your client is being exposed to and identify the challenges they face in each situation. Once you have a clear idea on the challenges they are facing, you will be able to figure out ways to address those special needs in the Pilates repertoire.

It is important to recognize that the human body is designed to move in patterns, not individual isolated parts. All relevant movement patterns are reviewed within the STOTT PILATES^® Education and STOTT PILATES Principles, to understand each one in the context of the exercises and functional activities.

Keep an eye out for training with Pablo Vera

Pablo will be back in South Korea in 2023 late spring with more insightful workshops focusing on teaching rehab programming. To stay updated and to find Pilates training near you, click here!

 

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2023-01-20/ask-the-expert-what-are-the-core-elements-of-developing-effective-exercise-programs-for-your-clients

With the new year comes our aspirations to become fitter and stronger. This is why many of us like to incorporate fitness goals into our new year’s resolutions. From celebrities like David Beckham and Kate Hudson to sports professionals like Cristiano Ronaldo, it is a never-ending list of people who rely on Pilates to work on their flexibility and improve muscle strength. Regardless of age, gender or fitness level, there are numerous ways in which you can also benefit from incorporating Pilates into your workout routine.

When you think of Pilates, there is so much more than what meets the eye. It can help you with injury prevention and recovery, enhance core strength, improve stability and peripheral mobility among the active aging population, reduce stress, and strengthen the entire body among prenatal women.

“Pilates is often marketed as a way to create a long and lean body but honestly much of what makes you long and lean is your diet. What Pilates is vital for, and why you want to make it a priority in your training regimen, is building a strong physical foundation,” says Master Instructor Trainer, PJ O’Clair.

Increases strength and flexibility

It is no wonder that Pilates is one of the most effective ways to increase muscle strength and flexibility. Pilates is all about mindful movement and being in total control of your body. It improves functional strength, thereby improving the way you move in your everyday life.

Adding to this, PJ O’Clair says, “Think about it if your core or foundation is weak how will you be able to live up to the tasks of daily life or participate in the sports you love. I tell my clients “go local before global” which means lets first address the local stabilizing muscles closest to the joint axis of motion then move on to the larger global muscles.”

Improves your posture

Your compromised posture could be a result of weak muscles and shoulder or back pain. Pilates focuses on the ideal movement of muscles and joints to bring awareness to your muscles. Regular Pilates practice can strengthen the neglected postural muscles and gain back control which will help you sit upright.

“With that formula, you will be able to move from a place of integrity and with poise or grace. Another fun saying of mine is- If it isn’t pretty, it isn’t Pilates” says PJ O’Clair.

Promotes body awareness

Pilates makes it easier for you to listen to your body and exercise while ensuring mind-body sync. Pilates is based on the principles of mindfully moving.

“”I believe everyone should learn Pilates at a young age. Pilates teaches how to use the breath to optimize and control movement and promotes self-awareness. Much like yoga or martial arts, it’s a discipline which involves practice but, it’s worth every minute and can be done at any age and level of experience.

– PJ O’Clair, Merrithew^® Master Instructor Trainer

Simple yet effective

If you have never worked out before, getting started with a fitness resolution can be challenging and intimidating. Pilates can help you ease into a routine. Although Reformer workouts are one of the best ways to tone your body, many Pilates workouts only require a mat. You can start with mat Pilates first and move to Reformer workouts once you feel more confident.

Ready to kickstart your 2023 fitness resolution journey?

Our digital workout platform, Merrithew Connect^™ has hundreds of workouts with in-depth guided instructions from the best in the industry – Merrithew Instructor Trainers. You can choose your workout depending on your fitness level and do it anywhere, anytime.

 

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2023-01-19/here-is-why-pilates-should-be-at-the-top-of-your-2023-fitness-resolutions

Looking for ways to integrate your travel experiences for educational training purposes?

Being on a learning journey can get overwhelming at times. You might crave a change of scenery or a break, but a lot of times your schedules might not permit it. This is when the concept of an education getaway can help you break the monotony. Whether you love the peace and austerity of snowcapped mountains or sophisticated cities with great food- we have listed different options for you.

1. Be Pilates, New Zealand

Located in the picturesque vineyard of Hawke’s Bay region, Be Pilates is a Licensed Training Centre offering Merrithew^® education. Flooded with natural light and fresh air, wooden flooring, and ample space, the studio has the perfect countryside feel. One of the reasons why you’ll love taking training here is because training courses & workshops are scheduled in the afternoons to allow the mornings off for study or cater to your remote work commitments.

You’ll be able to enjoy a work-life balance and make the most out of your spare time exploring restaurants, local boutiques, cafes, beaches, and vineyard tours.

“”We found the location, complete with a lovely waterfall and established trees and we purpose-built this Merrithew LTC for students from around New Zealand and overseas to enjoy as a wonderful premium Pilates retreat style experience.

– Sharon Currie, Founder and STOTT PILATES^® Certified Instructor Trainer

2. Fluid Motion, Hawaii

World-famous beaches, breathtaking sunsets, outdoor activities, water sports, and great culinary experiences – Maui is known for all the right reasons. Monique Jutila, Founder of Merrithew^® Host Training Center, Fluid Motion, feels no differently- “Our studio is in the heart of Kihei directly across from one of the most popular beach destinations on Maui. We have spectacular views of the Ocean, Haleakala, and some of the most amazing sunsets as well as whale breaches during the months of January-March” she says.

Her boutique studio reflects simplicity and laidback vibes- just what you would experience from your staycation at Maui.

“”We pride ourselves on delivering excellent STOTT PILATES® education as well as fostering a genuine sense of community amongst our team and clients.

– Monique Jutila, Founder and STOTT PILATES^® Certified Trainer

Check out the upcoming courses at Fluid Motion and plan a perfect education getaway in paradise.

3. Qi En Movimiento, Spain

Located in the historical and coastal city of Gijón, in the north of Spain, Qi En Movimiento is a unique space with industrial and modernist-style interiors with commendable attention to detail.

“”In “Qi” beyond taking care of the aesthetics of our space and the functionality of our facilities, we strive to offer the most professional and warm treatment to our clients and students. That is the reason why our students and clients define Qi as a cozy and familiar space for them.

– Alejandra Diaz, Founder and STOTT PILATES^® Certified Trainer

If you’re thinking of an education getaway in Spain, book a spot at their upcoming workshops and get a chance to learn from Merrithew^® Master Instructor- Pablo Vera.

4. Sea Breeze, UK

As the name suggests, Sea Breeze is a boutique Reformer Pilates studio located in the heart of St Leonards-on-Sea, East Sussex, England where you’ll enjoy your training with the surreal view of the seafront.

When asked what makes the studio special in an interview with Hastings Independent Press, Pete Gibson, who is the co-founder, and owner of Sea Breeze Pilates along with his partner, Lead Instructor Trainer Brigitte Wrenn says, “The machines literally ‘reform’ your body. The feedback we’ve had since opening goes along the lines of: “We’ve been waiting a long time for something like this to open”.

Their studio has a warm and welcoming environment and the team believes that everyone can benefit from Pilates. The beautiful light-filled studio has amazing sea views and it has been fully refurbished and kitted out with state-of-the-art Merrithew Pilates equipment.

Have a look at the education workshops Sea Breeze is offering during March 2023, which also happens to be the best time to visit the UK!

 

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2022-12-21/educational-getaways–taking-pilates-training-in-interesting-places

In this edition of the beautiful studios around the world series, we will explore studios that have flourished in limited spaces. These studios from the Merrithew^® global community offer an appeal to those looking for a compact yet beautifully designed workout spaces. Their attention to detail and compact space means no distractions during the workout, making it all about shifting focus onto the mindful movement practice.

1. Guiwei Yoga, China

For founders Tang Meihua and Tang Meiyan, Pilates and Yoga are not just daily practices, but a way of life. They launched their Pilates studio with the aim to become a platform for the homing of the body and mind of Chinese people around the world.

“To achieve the unity of body and mind, the unity of action and soul, and return to the beginning, so as to achieve the quality and happy life that everyone yearns for,” says Tang Meihua.

The one-of-a-kind philosophy, Guiwei Yoga is a Merrithew Host Training Center offering a unique unique experience to its clients. Guiwei Yoga has many classes to suit people’s needs at any stage in life. The studio offers clean aesthetics and a warm setting that promotes a feeling of peace within yourself while preparing you to undertake new adventures that wait in the outer world.

2. Natural Pilates, California

Situated across from the luxurious Peninsula Hotel, Natural Pilates caters to a varied clientele. It is a premier Pilates company with three studios in Los Angeles, an on-demand subscription platform, teacher training programs, accredited workshops, and a line of exercise props. Laura Wilson, the founder of Natural Pilates first opened a 700-square-foot studio in Beverly Hills in 2005 with two V2 Max^™ Reformers and a massage table. Fast forward to 16 years in the Pilates business, she now has multiple branches in Brentwood, Century City, Bel Air, and West Hollywood.

“”I love Pilates because it’s a challenging workout that pushes people out of their comfort zone. Our mission is to help our clients increase their body awareness, understand their physical abilities and reach their maximum potential.

– Laura Wilson, Founder of Natural Pilates

3. PILATES BOUTIQUE, Vienna

Referred to as ‘playroom’ by founder Sara Kuzel and her team, the PILATES BOUTIQUE is an aesthetically pleasing, fine boutique studio in the ‘city of music’ Vienna. Sara is a dancer, Pilates, Barre, and Aerial Yoga trainer with over 15 years of international experience. With wooden floors, minimalist bohemian-style decor, and clean white curtains, this place is a haven for fitness enthusiasts.

You’ll enjoy working out as natural light floods through the curtains, fostering a warm and bright environment that is perfect for mind-body practice. The studio is well known in the local Pilates community as an escape that offers a very pleasant and friendly atmosphere.

4. SPACE, Oslo

Located in the beautiful city of Oslo, known for its green spaces and museums, you’ll find SPACE in two areas – Frogner and Skøyen. SPACE is a Merrithew Host Training Center, owned by two London-based Pilates enthusiasts – Aislinn Jensen and Kristina Cavanna. Their studio is the true definition of simplicity at its best and resonates with the vibe of Oslo city itself which boasts modern design and architecture. With taupe wooden flooring and complementing white walls, their studio is like a breath of fresh air. The team at SPACE Pilates is passionate about delivering the highest quality instruction. They believe in working continuously to increase their knowledge in order to challenge their clients & modify in new ways.

“”We’re proud to partner with the world-class Merrithew to deliver their globally acclaimed STOTT PILATES^® education method for aspiring & certified instructors across Norway, Sweden, Denmark & Finland.

5. ZES Boutique Studio, Maastricht

This posh-looking studio is located in Maastricht, the Netherlands at the Brusselsestraat 74 on the first floor. As soon as you enter the studio space, you’ll feel the essence of wellness and luxury this space offers. The mirrors paired with LED accents definitely steal the show. Petra Bekkerin, the founder of ZES Boutique Studio customized the studio equipped with 6 SPX^® Reformers in an eye-catching adobe white upholstery to match her studio aesthetic and branding.

“”I just knew I wanted to work with this magic Pilates machine,” she says. “The whole idea of mindful movement — of finding the perfect balance between mind and body, of using the breath and slow, intentional movements — really appealed to me.

– Petra Bekkerin, founder of ZES Boutique Studio

 

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2022-11-24/beautiful-studios-in-a-small-space

As a Pilates instructor, you want to make sure you’re running your business with integrity- after all, your ethics are one of the most important business assets and the magnet for a loyal client base. When you operate mindfully and ethically, you build trust and loyalty among your client base, establish a good reputation, and lay the groundwork for long-term success. Here are things to keep in mind as you work to grow your business.

1. Choose the right opportunity

When growing your business, it’s essential to be strategic about where you focus your time and energy. Not every opportunity is a good fit for your brand or your bottom line, so it’s important to choose which ones you pursue. Consider what will help you achieve your goals while also staying true to your values. By being selective about the opportunities you take on, you can avoid burnout and maintain a healthy work-life balance—two key components of a successful business.

2. Be transparent

‘You, the client, is why we do what we do. Our business has always been about empowering you to achieve your optimum level of health and fitness so you can lead the life you want to live.’ This is the core philosophy of Inspire Health, a Merrithew^® Licensed Training Center in the United States founded by Sara Baker, STOTT PILATES^® Rehab Instructor Trainer.

One of the foundations of integrity is transparency. When you’re clear about who you are, what you stand for, and how you operate, it builds trust among your clients and employees. People want to do business with brands they can believe in, so don’t be afraid to share your mission and values with the world. Not only will it help attract like-minded individuals to your business, but it will also help you weed out those who aren’t aligned with your vision.

“A successful Pilates instructor needs to be totally genuine. You have to love what you do and do it for love. It is probably a mistake to make your primary goal ‘to be an influencer.’ If you’re passionate about what you do, the rest comes from that.” recommends Lisa Kaye, a STOTT PILATES Instructor Trainer, and the owner of Pilates One 2 One, a Merrithew Host Training Center in Australia

3. Lead by example

As the owner of a Pilates studio or a freelance instructor, you set the tone for your business. That’s why it’s important to lead by example in everything you do—from how you treat your employees to how you interact with clients. By modeling integrity in all facets of your life, you create a culture of respect and accountability that will benefit everyone involved in your business.

Respect is non-negotiable. For those you work for, those you work with, and anyone else that comes through your doors. Even if an upset customer is being irrational, if your employee screws up, or you are having a rough day, make an effort to be respectful. In a mindful movement environment especially, when clients are being encouraged to be mindful, respect is paramount—it creates a safe mental space to slow down and focus on breath and movement.

4. Maintain The Highest Standards Of Certification And Education

When you become a Pilates instructor, you make a commitment to uphold the standards and techniques of mindful movement practice. Your clients trust that you will provide them with safe, effective instruction based on the latest research and knowledge. Furthermore, they expect you to maintain liability insurance in case of injury. Ensuring you’re in sync with the latest trends and practices will build a strong clientele with trust as its core foundation.

Have a look at what Anita Tang, a Merrithew Lead Instructor Trainer and the owner of The Orange Room- a Merrithew Training Center in China, has to say about the importance of certifications for your Pilates career.

5. Put Your Clients’ Needs First

Your clients are why you are in business in the first place! When recommending service packages, always have their best interests in mind. For example, if a client expresses interest in private sessions, but you feel they would be better served by group classes, be honest with them about why you think that is the case. Respecting your client’s time by starting and ending sessions on time and sticking to the scheduled appointment length is also essential.

Integrity is essential for any successful business—no matter what industry or stage of growth you’re at. By being mindful of your choices, being transparent about who you are and what you stand for, and leading by example in all that you do, you can create a strong foundation for a thriving Pilates studio or freelance career.

“”My aim is to coach my students in an optimal approach for the health and fitness of their bodies. Through private, duet, and trio sessions, we can work together and realize your own vision.

Deborah Degano
Merrithew Instructor Trainer
Owner of Berliner Pilates, a Merrithew Host Training Center in Germany

6. Value and engage your staff

Remember, teamwork makes the dream work. Engaging and valuing your staff ensures that everyone is on the same page. When everyone is working together towards a common goal, it helps to create a sense of cohesion and community within the studio. This can be achieved by holding regular staff meetings, sending out newsletters, or even just taking the time to chat with your staff members on a regular basis.

If your staff members feel like they are valued and appreciated, they will be more likely to go above and beyond for your studio. This positive working environment will also be reflected in the way that your clients interact with your staff members; if your staff members are happy, your clients will likely pick up on that positive energy.

7. Leverage social media platforms

Share dynamic content. Static posts can be boring—and they won’t do as much to grow your Pilates studio business. Content that showcases the results your clients have achieved through Pilates can do wonders for your growth. For example, you could write blog posts about the ways in which Pilates has helped your clients achieve their fitness goals and share them on various social media platforms.

Engage with your audience. This means replying to comments and questions in a timely manner, as well as sharing other people’s content that is relevant to your audience. When you take the time to engage with your audience, you build rapport and trust—which are essential for growing any business, including a Pilates studio.

“”I have met many students through my Instagram page. A lot of them don’t live in Singapore, but they’ve traveled here to take Merrithew’s STOTT PILATES Instructor training courses with me at my studio, Breathe Pilates. Instagram has helped me reach many more students outside of Singapore.

Cholthicha Srivisal
Merrithew Instructor Trainer
Co-founder of Breathe Pilates, a Merrithew Licensed Training Center in Singapore

 

Source: https://www.merrithew.com/blog/post/2022-10-12/the-business-of-ethics-how-to-build-your-business-with-integrity