Why do instructors think it is ok to work-out with the class in a group setting? There is absolutely no way that Pilates can be taught properly with the instructor working out. It seems like this would be common sense to anyone who appreciates the philosophy and principles of Pilates. Apparently this needs to be emphasized more in Pilates training!

-Frustrated Studio Owner!!

well nothing is ever black and white and absolutes always get me into trouble. i don't think there is anything wrong with doing a few exercises with your advanced clients... i do. i do this for a reason tho. (not to get a workout in) i will step in a do a few exercises with them so they can SEE and FEEL the tempo of the exercise it's full form. when i do it with them for a few reps they are able to feel my presence and maintain a better tempo. after i see that they are getting i sit up and put my eyeballs on them and go back to being impeccable with my word. so on one hand i agree with you. teachers should not be sneaking in their workouts. i don't promote that, but i do promote doing a few exercises here and there. works for me...

I have to agree with Lift Girl. I find that at times it's helpful to get on the equipment and demo a move, say on the Reformer. I do it once or twice and then I hop off. Some clients are more visual and like to see the movement first, if only to have some small sense of what's being asked of them. I have done an entire mat class with the class but only when there were 25 people. I did, however, manage to get up and walk around, but with that many people, it's hard to give anyone special attention and I wouldn't do it if it were a beginning class. I feel there is a constant balancing (pun intended) act when deciding to demo or not. I think we as intelligent instructors need to look at each situation and act accordingly. It's not a one size fits all method.