Keion's guidelines for setting up your studio for independence.

Though you know Keion as an excellent teacher, did you know what a skilled wordsmith she is? Given her background in journalism, Keion's words hold a certain power and clarity. In fact, she was the perfect choice for editor of Sandy's recently released Contrology Handbook.

In this blog, Keion gives valuable advice, based on her personal experience of transitioning her studio and clients to be more independent. 

If you’ve ever felt the transformative energy of a Pilates practice that reflects Joe’s original vision, you might be curious about how to infuse that same spirit into your own studio. While some aspects might seem straightforward, others could be less clear. As you redesign your teaching space, you’re also transforming your teaching approach. This may sound daunting, but it’s absolutely worth it.

Embracing Joe’s legacy paves the way to teaching Pilates as a method and experiencing its full range of potential benefits. Without Joe’s design, a Pilates practice ceases to exist. Let’s explore some essentials to creating an atmosphere that honors Joe’s work and fosters independence.

Controlled Environment

Promoting independence goes beyond simply allowing your clients to wander in and use equipment at will. The aim is to craft an environment that nurtures an authentic Pilates journey. It’s crucial to establish a controlled setting that encourages the focus and concentration central to an independent Pilates practice. Minimize distractions such as music and cell phones to prioritize the mind-body connection. Your studio should be a space that fosters progress rather than hindering it.

Personalized Pilates Programming

Customize a program for each student, creating a routine that addresses unique goals and challenges. This approach enhances comprehension of the practice, produces sustainable progress, reduces the likelihood of injury, and yields maximum results. Encouraging students to take responsibility for tasks like navigating equipment usage engenders independence, instills self-sufficiency, and ensures they feel capable and empowered throughout their Pilates journey.

The Exercise Card

Implementing exercise program cards encourages clients to take ownership of their practice, which leads to sincere commitment, engagement, and ultimately, greater progress. The program cards also provide a useful tool for teaching staff to uphold a consistent instructional approach. Maintaining this level of clarity and cohesion reinforces the idea of teaching Pilates as a system.

Teaching Staff

Surround yourself with like-minded teachers. You want your students to have a clear message about what the Pilates method is and how to practice it and that starts with your teaching staff being on the same page.

Set Expectations

Take the time to educate your clients on the value of independence in their Pilates practice. Help them understand how it leads to greater progress and results in the long run. Don’t let them shy away from repetition. Explain the importance of adopting a consistent routine.

Emphasize what sets you apart from other studios that follow a less traditional approach. Make it clear that the service you provide is expertise, guidance, and coaching. And occasionally, a little moral support.

Teaching Mindset

Shift away from overly dependent teaching styles that focus on counting reps and giving constant movement cues. Instead, prioritize guiding clients while allowing them the freedom to move and discover their bodies. Avoid introducing new exercises until your students have become proficient at the fundamentals, promoting a gradual and sustainable progression.

Stop talking so much and stop overcorrecting. Think about what your client can retain in one session. The goal is to get them to hold onto something—whether a concept, a feeling, or an intention—and bring it back to their next session. Instead of layering on too many things at once, offer targeted feedback and let them move.

By following these guidelines, you can start cultivating a studio environment that honors Joe Pilates’ legacy and empowers your clients to truly embody his method. Embrace independence, encourage ownership, and watch as your studio thrives with clients who are truly invested in their Pilates practice.

 About Keion

 Keion is the co-owner of Strong Body Pilates, a distinguished Los Angeles-based Pilates studio committed to preserving and perpetuating the authentic Pilates method. A proud 2017 graduate of THE WORK™, an exclusive continuing education program for seasoned Pilates instructors, Keion honed her craft under the expert guidance of program director and first generation teacher Jay Grimes, alongside the esteemed Sandy Shimoda, owner of Vintage Pilates. Recognized for her dedication to the discipline, Keion was handpicked to join the elite teaching faculty at Vintage Pilates, where she taught until transitioning to studio ownership in 2019. With her unwavering commitment to excellence and her deep-rooted respect for the tradition of Pilates, Keion continues to inspire and empower her clients on their journey to optimal health and wellness.