September 11, 2023
"Contrology is..." is an homage to Joe Pilates, the genius of physical culture whose exercise method has become widely popular since his passing in 1967. Pilates teachers and educators Benjamin Degenhardt and Clare Dunphy collaborated in studying the original Mat exercises with the help of archival materials and decided to pay tribute with this demonstration - and illustrate the power, grace, control, and movement quality that represents the work. Contrology, the original name of the method created by Joe Pilates, is more than just exercise. His desire was for the method to be understood as a "return to life", simply by maintaining our physical instrument - our bodies - to the best of our abilities and capabilities. So that we, as a human species, can function better and live better lives. In a world where physical fitness is generally more determined by looks and not by health, we want to pay tribute to the concepts that inspired Joe Pilates to create his amazing work by showcasing his original exercises. The quotes in the film were taken from his book "Return To Life".
Please note that this clip is not intended as an exercise video, and we would like to discourage you from attempting to follow along with the exercises without proper guidance and instruction by a trained professional. Feel free to contact us for assistance in finding a teacher for you. Special thanks to http://gratzindustries.com for providing us with the original Mat apparatus and to our helpers on site: Tina van Heyst Lyon and Jennifer Bender Ferre. Learn more about Benjamin and Clare on our websites: https://benjamindegenhardt.com https://progressivebodyworksinc.com Music by: "Plasma" by Redmann (freemusicarchive.org/music/Redmann/Best_Bytes_Volume_1/11--Redmann--Plasma)
Filed under: Lifestyle Matters,Movement Matters
September 11, 2023
Are any of these statements true for you?
Have you ever found yourself feeling unsure about the deeper meaning behind the Pilates work? As if there are some big secrets that no one has ever shared with you? If so, you are not alone. Many Pilates teachers have experienced this same sentiment, craving a deeper understanding of the work they offer to their clients.
You know there is still so much more to learn, but you're not quite sure about what to do next. The constant pursuit of knowledge and growth is a characteristic that great teachers have in common. Feeling curious and eager to discover more about the thought process behind super-effective Pilates sessions is okay.
Attending workshops and gathering information is a great way to expand your knowledge, but it can be difficult to incorporate all that you've learned in a way that feels right to you. It's important not to get discouraged. Many teachers have faced similar challenges and have found ways to integrate new information into their teaching practice effectively.
One common fear that many Pilates teachers face is the fear of judgment. Teaching is a vulnerable profession, and it's natural to feel worried about how you teach and what you teach. However, it's important to remember that true growth comes from stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing the possibility of making mistakes. Great teachers not only face their fears but also do it anyway.
Feedback is crucial for any teacher or practitioner to grow and improve. It's disheartening when you've not received feedback on your effectiveness since your training. You're left wondering if you're on the right track or if there are areas that need improvement. Remember that you are not alone in this journey. Seeking feedback from mentors, peers, or even your students can provide valuable insights into your teaching and help you identify areas for growth.
Feeling lonely and burned out from teaching is a common phenomenon. The responsibility of being a Pilates teacher can sometimes be overwhelming, and it's important to prioritize your own well-being and personal development. Great teachers understand the importance of self-awareness, self-care, and continuous personal growth.
Now, let's talk about the next steps you can take as a Pilates teacher to find clarity and further your career. It's time to refocus your Pilates career and prioritize your personal development. This means setting aside dedicated time to reflect on your teaching values, your ideal as a teacher, and your vision for growth. Consider using a self-assessment tool to identify your strengths and weaknesses as a teacher. This will help you better understand where you need assistance and guidance to overcome your blind spots.
One of the ways to accelerate your growth as a Pilates teacher is by finding a mentor. Many times, people confuse the role of a mentor with that of a teacher trainer. While a teacher trainer focuses on imparting knowledge and skills specific to Pilates instruction, a mentor goes beyond that. A mentor guides and supports you in the technical aspects of teaching and your personal and professional development. They help you move towards your goals, beyond trends, towards clarity, and ultimately inspire and empower you to become the best version of yourself.
So, if you're still wondering if a Pilates mentorship is the right step for you, consider how it can benefit you in moving towards your goals, giving you clarity, and guiding you into the future. Embrace the idea of lifelong learning and self-improvement to ensure that you continue to develop as a Pilates teacher.
Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Many great teachers have faced similar challenges and have found their way toward clarity, growth, and fulfillment in their careers. Take the next step, prioritize your personal development, and embrace the support and guidance that is available to you. Your journey as a Pilates teacher is just beginning, and endless possibilities await you.
Filed under: Business Matters,Lifestyle Matters
