Guidelines for teaching mat classes are a useful tool in preparing to take on the mass mat market. This article by Christine Romani-Ruby is a good piece that will help steer you in the right direction.
The idea of 10 or more people on the floor trying to execute single leg stretch or roll like a ball just like the teacher, or the person next to them, is a little disconcerting to me. You do see a lot of mat classes advertised, so there must be many Instructors out there that enjoy this style of teaching.
I have participated as a client in quite a few Pilates mat classes. Looking around the bodies I wondered why the teacher wasn’t sorting out the overactive anterior necks, or cueing about keeping the body long and open while exercising, or providing images to encourage control and coordination.
A small class where the teacher is very hands on and modifies appropriately for the individuals, and has assessed or at least discussed current condition with all clients seems a safer and more appropriate way to go.
I began a session with a mat class approach this weekend when 4 clients turned up, instead of the 3 booked in for semi privates. It worked OK as I had taught them all at least once before, but I needed to deconstruct exercises slightly differently for 2 of the 4 clients as we went on. In a group of anymore than that I am not confident that I would not have been able to keep the flow and pace of the class, while maintaining safety and appropriateness to each client.
Maybe that skill comes with lots of practice? Or maybe I am missing the point of mat classes?
Love to get your feedback if you have something to contribute on the topic.
