Does going to a Pilates class fill you with fear?
Have you been told that you need to do a Pilates class but it fills you with fear?
You’ve never done classes before and everyone is going to be a lot better than you?
The thought of walking into the class and everyone looking at you is your worst nightmare!
It’s normal to have fears and this makes finding the right class essential. As is starting your Pilates journey. You can find out more Why you should do Pilates.
You’re are not the only one who will have the same fears and concerns!!
Questions we get asked all the time
- the exercises will be too hard
- I’ve had a knee /hip replacement and so can’t do certain things
- I’m too old
- Men don’t do Pilates (another blog!)
- Everyone else will be better than me.
- I’m really uncoordinated
- I don’t want to look stupid or clumsy
- I’m unfit
If you find the right class and the right teacher then all these fears will be addressed.
The exercises will be too hard – as a beginner the exercises are very low level and you probably won’t even feel that you have done anything during the first few lessons. The aim of these classes is to introduce you to the technique first and some of the exercises before we make then harder, so it’s a gradual process and the teacher shouldn’t progress the exercises until you are ready!
I’ve had a knee/hip operation – as long as you have been given the all clear by the physio and your consultant again as above we will start slowly and progress you as and when you are ready.
I’m too old – no one is ever too old to start exercise of some sort, a lot of it can be to do with your mindset! (I have a 92-year-old in one of my classes who is still doing Pilates!) Pilates can be adapted in lots of ways from chair pilates to standing pilates so no excuse not to try!
Men don’t do Pilates – yes, they do! Lots of men do pilates but that’s for another day.
Everyone else will be better than me – its depends what class you go too. A beginner’s class you know you will all be starting from the same point. If you go into a mixed ability class then yes people will be at different levels. The great thing about Pilates is that it’s not competitive and everyone should be working to their own ability.
I’m really uncoordinated – its takes a little time to get use to Pilates anyway, and yes co-ordination can be useful with some of the moves. I find with uncoordinated people that as they get to know the moves they become more co-ordinated!
I don’t want to look stupid or clumsy – you won’t, everyone is so concentrated on what they are doing they aren’t looking at you.
I’m unfit – as with starting any new exercise regime you take it all at your own pace, gradually increasing the level as you get fitter. We all start somewhere!
Before you sign up for your class, give the teacher a call and tell them about your fears about going to a class. They will talk you through their processes and what you need to do and bring.
If you are still not sure then why not join our community adnd share your fears. You will be surprised to hear you aren’t the only one.
