By Maria Leone, owner, Bodyline Pilates Studio

The first six months of teaching Pilates professionally are often the most difficult. No matter how thoroughly each new teacher prepares, there is no way for rookies to be ready for every situation they will encounter. What a new teacher often fails to realize is that clients will expect much more from you once you pass from an apprentice or teacher in training to a certified instructor. The experienced clients will be comparing your session to previous workouts. They will be looking for a workout which makes the old repertoire feel new, as well as a feeling of progression. Those new to Pilates will expect a workout that challenges them physically even though they are beginners.

Unfortunately, this is a rite of passage for all new teachers. No matter how long you’ve trained or how many workshops you’ve taken, nothing can take the place of applying your knowledge to real live clients. I have had a staff of five to 12 trainers for over 10 years. The success of my business has been partly dependent on the ability to assimilate new teachers quickly and effortlessly.  

Read on for my top five tips that will help new Pilates instructors teach safely and intelligently…