What to expect in your introductory private session
 
Many people have never worked one on one with a movement or exercise  instructor and have some misconceived ideas about what a private Pilates session will be like. Let me put any fears to rest!  Maybe you’ve heard horror stories of people doing personal training and being so sore they couldn't walk the next day or lift their arm to brush their teeth?  Or a trainer that completely missed the mark by taking an individual through a program geared towards an athlete when all she or he wanted is to get stronger after a hip replacement. Rest assured, after your first session, you will feel taller, stronger and more in tune with your body!

Let me walk you through your first Pilates private session at The Pilates Sanctuary. (P.S.- remember this session is free so definitely take advantage of it!)
  1. When you arrive at the studio we’ll give you a tour of our space.  We’ll show you where you can put your personal items, point out the restrooms, show you studio rooms that we use for private sessions and small group classes.
  2. If you haven’t already filled out our new client paperwork we’ll have you fill out our health intake and other preliminary forms.   Your instructor will start your session by sitting with you and going over your health history and discussing how it effects your exercise program.  As instructors, we want to help you create a Pilates practice that meets your goals and is safe for your body!
  3. After we’ve learned a little bit more about you, your instructor will share how we teach the Pilates Method at The Sanctuary.  We find that learning Pilates is a process and teaching the “why” behind the method is important when helping others create a Pilates practice in their life.
  4. We  will start with a postural assessment, then using that information, your instructor will guide you in movement using exercises that support what was found in the assessment. Part of the movement will be learning the Pilates fundamentals that are the building blocks of every movement we do. The fundamentals include the concepts of breath, engaging your deep abdominal muscles to protect your spine, how to stabilize your hips and shoulders and more.  We tailor the exercises to your body and move at a level appropriate for you.
  5. Depending on what is happening in your body, your instructor may have you experience exercises that are considered Mat work (using your own body for resistance), as well as exercises on some of the traditional Pilates equipment such as the Universal Reformer, the Cadillac or the Pilates Wunda Chair.
  6. We’ll wrap up your session with some time to talk about what we did and give you an opportunity to ask questions.  Your instructor can help to explain the different ways you can learn and practice Pilates and give suggestions as to what program will be best for your body.
Our goal during your first session is to start the teaching process and help you decide whether you want to pursue a Pilates practice.  Your session will be a combination of discussion and movement.  Will you be sore the next day?  You might be but not in a way that will keep you from brushing your teeth ;).  Often when you are learning a new movement and engaging new muscles you’ll feel it the next day- but in a good way!  You’ll know you did something different but no need to worry about being so sore that you can’t function!!

Ready to try a complimentary session?  Click below and let's get you started on your path to a healthier, fitter you. We look forward to meeting you!