Workshop Updates – as of May 23, 2012
Workshops!
There are new workshops and updated workshops all of the time! Check out the latest (including a newly posted workshop for June 16 in NYC!).
Stay tuned for more all around the USA and Europe!
See full details below for:
New York, NY – May 19
New York, NY – June 9 – Please note that this date just changed to June 9
New York, NY – June 16 – (Just Added!)
San Francisco, CA – POT- July 14 & 15 – see discount info
Hamburg, Germany – August 4
New York, NY – Aug. 19 – Please note that this date just changed to Aug. 19
Sao Paolo, BRAZIL – early Sept.
Boston, MA – POT – Sept. 15 - see discount info
Sweden (in the works) – mid-Oct.
Iasi, ROMANIA – Oct. 26-28
Madison, CT – Nov. 11
(and more to follow!)
May 19 Real Pilates – New York, NY
Small Ball with Shari Berkowitz
3-6pm
3 PMA CECs (pending)
No Reformer? No Cadillac? No Studio? No Problem! You can use the small ball in nearly any space that can fit a person. Its versatility is remarkable as a bio-feedback tool for your clients, working sometimes like a magic circle, other times like a small barrel and even like a teacher’s hand. Learn how to make this piece of equipment focus, deepen and enlighten your practice. Too often, our props are just that–toys, distraction, fluff. Learn how to bring your students to a new threshold in their practice using this light, portable and economical tool!
Back Issues: Coccyx to C1
2:30p-5:30p
3PMA CECs
With 24 moving vertebrae, discs, muscles, ligaments tendons and nerves…there are bound to be problems from time to time. Some severe, some minor, but all painful and annoying. In this workshop, we’ll work to understand the most common conditions of the back including herniated discs, L5-S1 issues, SI trouble, scoliosis and weak necks and how to address them with Pilates. Bring your questions and basic understanding of the anatomy of the spine and pelvis and an open mind!
For registration and additional information, contact Emilie at center@reabnyc.com
June 16 – New York, NY – Pilates Reforming NY
Spice Up Your Reformer with Shari Berkowitz!
3-6pm
3PMA CECs (pending)
Most of your clients will become and stay Intermediate in their Pilates life. There are countless exercises in our modern world of Pilates…in this workshop, we’ll explore the remarkable variations Mr. Pilates created on his own standard exercises that many have never seen or are often forgotten and lost…especially as we teach group classes . Beyond the exercises, we’ll work through and understand the challenges of different levels in a group class, how to advance and work within groups, private and shared sessions…all of the situations you encounter in your teaching life. Full of immediately useful information, these 3 hours are far more than a bunch of exercises that you’ll soon forget! You have a long career ahead of you…let’s make the most of it!
Registration: http://clients.mindbodyonline.com/ws.asp?studioid=-726&stype=-8&sTG=20&sVT=32&sView=day&sLoc=4&sTrn=100000161&sDate=6/16/2012
July 13-15 in San Francisco, CA – Pilates on Tour
Saturday, July 14 -
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Apparatus on the Apparatus - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Sunday, July 15 -
Morning Mat Class – 1 hr
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information and registration.
POT Discounts:
If you register using my code, you can get $50 off of registration at any POT.
$50 Discount Code: SHARITOUR12
The discounts must be used when registering and are valid for any Pilates on Tour in 2012.
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Special Guest- Workshoptag mit Shari Berkowitz am 04.08.2012 im Studio 1880 in Hamburg!
For more Information regarding pricing, lodging, travelling, CECs etc. please call Power Pilates at +49 40 52570172 or e-mail us info@powerpilates.de. We are happy to answer your questions.
August 19 – Form Pilates – New York, NY
Time and Fee TBA
BioMechanics: How Our Bodies Really Work and How to Cue That Reality - 6hrs
6PMA CECs
While your physical intuition is an important asset in teaching Pilates, intuition is not enough. To sincerely take care of your clients, you must know the truth of how the body works. Cue the reality, not the myths or mistakes. Being a confident teacher depends on it…demands it. We’ll work to understand the biomechanics and functional anatomy surrounding the pelvis, spine, shoulder girdle and how to apply this information to your teaching. Knowing and understanding is the only way.
To register or for more information, contact Lindsay at formpilates@yahoo.com
September 14-16 in Boston, MA – Pilates on Tour
Saturday, September 15
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Exercises on the Apparatus - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information and registration
POT Discounts:
If you register using my code, you can get $50 off of registration atany POT.
$50 Discount Code: SHARITOUR12
The discounts must be used when registering and are valid for any Pilates on Tour in 2012.
mid-Oct. – Sweden (in the works)
All Dates and Information TBA! Check back soon!
Oct. 26-28, 2012 – Iasi, ROMANIA – Pilates Convention
The workshops are not set, yet, but date, presenters and location are! Are you in a neighboring country…come to Romania for great workshops and workouts!
Here is what they wrote in their Facebook:
www.pilates-convention.com gets bigger this year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Get also functional and well burned out with aerobics. The new theme of instructors are waiting you on 26-28 October: Shari Berkowitz, Orlando Fit Lopac, Mirela Anic, Giorgio Radici, Antonella Riviera, Mirjan DoubleTrouble, Laura Wilson, Gil Lopes, Paula Drosescu, Tatiana Chesalina, Judith Szereday, and more.
We’ll invite you to learn how to take care of the spine, of the hole body, of the mind, how to have fun with the kids teaching them how te exercise, special population trainings, and so many other things!!!
Looking forward to see you at the convention!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
In a wihle we’ll up-date the location, prices and shedule!
Thill then, don’t make other plans for 26-28 october, 2012!!!!
I’ll post more information when I get it to share with you!
Nov. 11, 2012 – Pilates Barn – Madison, CT
All information TBA – Check back soon!
**************
And so many more workshops to come…we can do one at your studio, too!
****Please share this information and tell your Pilates teacher friends and colleagues to come on over for workouts and workshops that will get your Pilates-teaching-juices flowing.****
Again, these are not your typical workshops where you might get 1 useful tidbit. You will leave full of new teaching skills and ways to look at Mr. Pilates work. You will have a new perspective on Pilates that will enliven your teaching and your own workouts!
Shall we set up something at your studio or the one you work at? Clearly, I travel to teach and enjoy it! Read below for more info!
Workshops in Your Studio:
If you are interested in my teaching workshops and/or semi-private sessions for your teachers at your studio, please contact me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
I’ll be thrilled to put together a program with you for your needs!
While my vocabulary is classical Pilates, the principles behind my teaching and workshops apply to every style of Pilates.
We have countless topics to play with within technique workshops of classical Pilates and teaching skills workshop that apply to all!
*******
Sessions:
If you’re in NYC and want a Pilates session e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
And I’m Westchester, NY on Thursdays.
Workshops:
If you’d like a workshop and/or semi-privates at your studio, e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com I travel all over the world and would be thrilled to come to you!
Consultation:
If you’d like to set up a meeting on the phone or in person to ask questions about teaching or building/maintaining your business, e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
****Thank you, as always, for taking the time to read this blog! I hope you’ll search around the blog and find articles that appeal to you, write comments, ask questions…I hope you’ll really make use of this! Then…I do hope to work with you in person, too!
Enjoy!
- Shari
Equipment Maintenance
What do you need to clean? How do you clean it? What works? What doesn’t?
Your apparatus is precious…let’s make sure you take care of it well!
Pilates Style asked me to write all about equipment maintenance for their Jan/Feb 2012 issue: The Resource Guide. While it was published there not everyone got a chance to see it…so I’ve posted it here. You’ll see that I interview the following:
Balanced Body
Gratz Industries
Pilates Designs by Basil
Peak Pilates
STOTT Pilates
Then I also ventured into small apparatus like mats, gloves, socks, etc.!
Check it out here:
http://theverticalworkshop.files.wordpress.com/2012/05/ps_-janfeb2012_equipmentguide.pdf
and leave me your thoughts, comments, replies and all in the reply/comment section!
Now, as for workshops, sessions, consultations, advertising:
Please take a look at the workshop, session and consultation information below! And…if you’d like to advertise on the newsletter and/or be part of the blog (see the sidebar), let me know and I’ll send you information. In fact, if you’d like to get my newsletter, e-mail me with your e-mail information: info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
Thank you!!!*****
See full details below for:
New York, NY – May 19
New York, NY – June 9 – Please note that this date just changed to June 9
New York, NY – June 16 (New Workshop!)
San Francisco, CA – POT- July 14 & 15 – see discount info
Hamburg, Germany – August 4
New York, NY – Aug. 19 – Please note that this date just changed to Aug. 19
Sao Paolo, BRAZIL – early Sept.
Boston, MA – POT – Sept. 15 - see discount info
Sweden (in the works) – mid-Oct.
Iasi, ROMANIA – Oct. 26-28
Madison, CT – Nov. 11
(and more to follow!)
May 19 Real Pilates – New York, NY
Small Ball with Shari Berkowitz
3-6pm
3 PMA CECs (pending)
No Reformer? No Cadillac? No Studio? No Problem! You can use the small ball in nearly any space that can fit a person. Its versatility is remarkable as a bio-feedback tool for your clients, working sometimes like a magic circle, other times like a small barrel and even like a teacher’s hand. Learn how to make this piece of equipment focus, deepen and enlighten your practice. Too often, our props are just that–toys, distraction, fluff. Learn how to bring your students to a new threshold in their practice using this light, portable and economical tool!
Back Issues: Coccyx to C1
2:30p-5:30p
3PMA CECs
With 24 moving vertebrae, discs, muscles, ligaments tendons and nerves…there are bound to be problems from time to time. Some severe, some minor, but all painful and annoying. In this workshop, we’ll work to understand the most common conditions of the back including herniated discs, L5-S1 issues, SI trouble, scoliosis and weak necks and how to address them with Pilates. Bring your questions and basic understanding of the anatomy of the spine and pelvis and an open mind!
For registration and additional information, contact Emilie at center@reabnyc.com
June 16 – New York, NY – Pilates Reforming NY
Spice Up Your Reformer with Shari Berkowitz!
3-6pm
3PMA CECs (pending)
Most of your clients will become and stay Intermediate in their Pilates life. There are countless exercises in our modern world of Pilates…in this workshop, we’ll explore the remarkable variations Mr. Pilates created on his own standard exercises that many have never seen or are often forgotten and lost…especially as we teach group classes . Beyond the exercises, we’ll work through and understand the challenges of different levels in a group class, how to advance and work within groups, private and shared sessions…all of the situations you encounter in your teaching life. Full of immediately useful information, these 3 hours are far more than a bunch of exercises that you’ll soon forget! You have a long career ahead of you…let’s make the most of it!
Registration: http://clients.mindbodyonline.com/ws.asp?studioid=-726&stype=-8&sTG=20&sVT=32&sView=day&sLoc=4&sTrn=100000161&sDate=6/16/2012
July 13-15 in San Francisco, CA – Pilates on Tour
Saturday, July 14 -
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Apparatus on the Apparatus - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Sunday, July 15 -
Morning Mat Class – 1 hr
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information and registration.
POT Discounts:
If you register using my code, you can get $50 off of registration at any POT.
$50 Discount Code: SHARITOUR12
The discounts must be used when registering and are valid for any Pilates on Tour in 2012.
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Special Guest- Workshoptag mit Shari Berkowitz am 04.08.2012 im Studio 1880 in Hamburg!
For more Information regarding pricing, lodging, travelling, CECs etc. please call Power Pilates at +49 40 52570172 or e-mail us info@powerpilates.de. We are happy to answer your questions.
August 19 – Form Pilates – New York, NY
Time and Fee TBA
BioMechanics: How Our Bodies Really Work and How to Cue That Reality - 6hrs
6PMA CECs
While your physical intuition is an important asset in teaching Pilates, intuition is not enough. To sincerely take care of your clients, you must know the truth of how the body works. Cue the reality, not the myths or mistakes. Being a confident teacher depends on it…demands it. We’ll work to understand the biomechanics and functional anatomy surrounding the pelvis, spine, shoulder girdle and how to apply this information to your teaching. Knowing and understanding is the only way.
To register or for more information, contact Lindsay at formpilates@yahoo.com
September 14-16 in Boston, MA – Pilates on Tour
Saturday, September 15
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Exercises on the Apparatus - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information and registration
POT Discounts:
If you register using my code, you can get $50 off of registration atany POT.
$50 Discount Code: SHARITOUR12
The discounts must be used when registering and are valid for any Pilates on Tour in 2012.
mid-Oct. – Sweden (in the works)
All Dates and Information TBA! Check back soon!
Oct. 26-28, 2012 – Iasi, ROMANIA – Pilates Convention
The workshops are not set, yet, but date, presenters and location are! Are you in a neighboring country…come to Romania for great workshops and workouts!
Here is what they wrote in their Facebook:
www.pilates-convention.com gets bigger this year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Get also functional and well burned out with aerobics. The new theme of instructors are waiting you on 26-28 October: Shari Berkowitz, Orlando Fit Lopac, Mirela Anic, Giorgio Radici, Antonella Riviera, Mirjan DoubleTrouble, Laura Wilson, Gil Lopes, Paula Drosescu, Tatiana Chesalina, Judith Szereday, and more.
We’ll invite you to learn how to take care of the spine, of the hole body, of the mind, how to have fun with the kids teaching them how te exercise, special population trainings, and so many other things!!!
Looking forward to see you at the convention!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
In a wihle we’ll up-date the location, prices and shedule!
Thill then, don’t make other plans for 26-28 october, 2012!!!!
I’ll post more information when I get it to share with you!
Nov. 11, 2012 – Pilates Barn – Madison, CT
All information TBA – Check back soon!
**************
And so many more workshops to come…we can do one at your studio, too!
****Please share this information and tell your Pilates teacher friends and colleagues to come on over for workouts and workshops that will get your Pilates-teaching-juices flowing.****
Again, these are not your typical workshops where you might get 1 useful tidbit. You will leave full of new teaching skills and ways to look at Mr. Pilates work. You will have a new perspective on Pilates that will enliven your teaching and your own workouts!
Shall we set up something at your studio or the one you work at? Clearly, I travel to teach and enjoy it! Read below for more info!
Workshops in Your Studio:
If you are interested in my teaching workshops and/or semi-private sessions for your teachers at your studio, please contact me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
I’ll be thrilled to put together a program with you for your needs!
While my vocabulary is classical Pilates, the principles behind my teaching and workshops apply to every style of Pilates.
We have countless topics to play with within technique workshops of classical Pilates and teaching skills workshop that apply to all!
*******
Sessions:
If you’re in NYC and want a Pilates session e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
And I’m Westchester, NY on Thursdays.
Workshops:
If you’d like a workshop and/or semi-privates at your studio, e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com I travel all over the world and would be thrilled to come to you!
Consultation:
If you’d like to set up a meeting on the phone or in person to ask questions about teaching or building/maintaining your business, e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
****Thank you, as always, for taking the time to read this blog! I hope you’ll search around the blog and find articles that appeal to you, write comments, ask questions…I hope you’ll really make use of this! Then…I do hope to work with you in person, too!
Enjoy!
- Shari
Whose Clients Are They Anyhow?
(Photo: Francoise de la Renta leaving Joe’s Studio…this is the actual front door of his 2nd floor place on 8th Avenue, NYC. Photo from Corbis.)
This is a touchy subject…so sit yourself down and let’s go for a ride…
Studio or You?
Who has “ownership” of the clients you work with everyday? The studio or you?
This is a major source of stress in studios across the world. Studio owners work very hard to market the studio and build up a clientele. Those same owners don’t teach all of the clients…they hire other teachers. However, the studio is supporting the ability for teachers to work, giving a place for clients, provide subs when teachers are absent…
Teachers work very hard to satisfy the needs of the clients, build a great relationship, help those clients achieve their goals…
This is how it’s supposed to work. Studio brings in clients. Teachers teach clients. Studio pays teacher a competitive rate. Clients are happy and take a lot of Pilates. Studio gets paid. Teacher get paid. All are satisfied.
But here’s where trouble enters the picture:
You get a job at a studio, make yourself available for a shift of 4, 5, 8 hours of teaching 2, 3, 7 days a week. You look at a schedule and hope it fills up. If it does you are thrilled that you can pay your rent, if it doesn’t you are upset that the studio hasn’t gotten you enough work.
You work with each of those clients 1 to 3 times a week maybe for years. You develop a very special relationship with those clients…it has its own sort of intimacy. You know a lot about these people’s bodies, minds…personal, professional. They know a lot about you. Likely too much (a topic for another article).
Then…for whatever reason, you decide to move on from that studio where you’ve been quite busy with clients. You want your own business. You know that you can either rent space at another studio or open your own…but who is your clientele going to be?
Many teachers want to take their current clients that were set up by the studio they were working at. They say “but I’ve been the one who has spent day in and day out with her…she’s coming to Pilates for me!”
But whose clients are they really?
They are the studio’s clients. They are not yours. You are an employee or an independent contractor…but the client is the studio’s client. That is, unless you’ve signed an agreement that the client is yours and you can go wherever you please with that client. However, usually, most studios would ask you to sign a different agreement that states that you cannot. And even if they don’t ask you to sign any such agreement…the truth is…the client came to the studio for the reputation of the studio…not for you. Out of convenience (good schedule, price, etc.) and most often a genuine connection to you, they have stayed, but it was pretty-much happenstance that they got to you. They came to the studio.
Yes, yes…you have invested in that client…but you were paid for your investment in the agreed upon hourly wage.
If all of this is true, and it is, why do many teachers take their studio clients away from a studio as though they are their own private clientele?
What is a true private client?
A true private client is someone who you found outside of the studio…or who found you. Word of mouth, your website, your advertisement, etc…but they weren’t set up by a studio for you.
Recently, a wonderful studio owner came to me with a horrid situation. An employee left her studio with 15 or more of her clients. Went to rent space at a studio 2 blocks away. Just before she left, she had appropriately discussed she was leaving and eye-to-eye said that she would never take any clients. Well…that was a bold-faced lie. Because she did.
This lovely owner reached out to me to ask if I would talk with the owner of the other studio…maybe the new studio would stand up for studio owners all over the place (and at least her) and perhaps not take this person on as a renter with legitimately “stolen” clients. I did reach out to the other studio. Alas, after no response for weeks, that other studio owner wouldn’t relent. Of course…she wants the income from the renter no matter where that income comes from. I “get it”…but somehow it’s all wrong.
Industry Standards – Creating a Culture
This business of Pilates is still so very new. We have to be the ones to start setting “industry standards”…and they should be awesome! I mean smart, honest, transparent, kind, healthy.
You ask “how can a studio turn down a teacher who walks in with 15 or 20 rentals a week? That’s a huge amount of money to turn away!” I say “you must”! This is a very small community. When a teacher comes to you who has been working at a studio that you know full-well doesn’t do rentals, but she comes to you with 15 or 20 or more a week…you’ve got to question where it comes from!
Now, when I opened my own studio, I opened it with a full clientele. How did I do that? I built up my clients renting space at studios across the area for years until I had enough to open my studio doors at full capacity. When I left the studios I was working at only one of them did I have any “studio clients”. Maybe a handful of sessions a week. Otherwise, at that studio, I was renting 20-30 or more sessions a week. So…when my clients who were studio clients asked where I was going. I simply said this “I cannot tell you where I’m off to or invite you to come with me. You are a client of this studio. While I’ve loved working with you, I must withhold this information because it’s been my privilege to work with the studio’s clients. If 6 months down the road you end up finding me on your own, then I will welcome you into my schedule, but I cannot invite you to join me now.” That’s that.
Did I want to bring those people? Of course! Did I get accused of “stealing clients” by the studio owner? Of course! But I did not steal any clients. One client demanded that she come. She spoke with the studio owner and I believe if I remember correctly it was a horrid conversation. I tried to persuade that client to stay at the current studio…but she was strong willed. She lived a 5 minute walk away, saw me moving into my new space and became the only client that was from another studio in my new studio.
Creating A Responsible Community
Now, what can do to create a responsible community of teachers who respect that a studio client is just that: the studio’s client? We have to make some serious changes in thought and action.
1 – Studio Owner and Manager responsibility and connection to the client: we think the issue is the teachers who “steal” clients and the teachers think that they have done the hard work and are the reason the client is there or still there. A big part of the equation is that the client. The client needs to feel an allegiance to the studio…not to the teacher. It doesn’t happen automatically…it’s just like a child to a mother. It’s imprinting. We have to consider who the client is imprinting to…who is the “mother figure”? (And this applies to men, too…this is not sexist.) It’s the studio owner who has to be the leader, mother figure, relationship partner…the teacher has to be secondary (though utterly important).
What does this mean to the owner? S/he must be involved. Very involved! S/he has to be around…a lot. Personally interact with each client. Be up to date on the client’s progress, challenges, injuries, etc. That means that owners have to sit down and talk with teachers, be around to see clients, drop an e-mail to a client to connect (newsletters are not enough…personal emails from time to time. Just pick one client a week and send a note that connects you both together) and…teach. Owners don’t have to teach all of the time, there are different responsibilities that are part of owning…but they need to be the substitute teacher on-call…which is a great way to get around to all of the clients.
Managers have to be part of the equation, too! They need to be out and about on the floor, too, seeing what’s really going on. Spending quality face-time. Get out of the back office and interact.
2 – Studio Owner Connection to the Teachers: The teachers need to feel supported, necessary, welcome and compensated properly. They need to know that the benefits of being in the studio far outweigh the idea of being elsewhere. So, that means the studio has to work hard to pack their schedule. Whatever it takes. You must invest in the your teachers! And then you have to make sure that you’re paying your teachers appropriately. How do you know what the going rate is? Well…you ask around. Nowadays there are plenty of forums to chat in if you don’t feel comfortable asking a fellow studio owner. Just ask within a forum and see what relative percentage is being paid from price of session to hourly pay. Make sure your pay is competitive.
Then…give your teachers raises before they ask for them. If you feel that it’s possible based on the numbers that a teacher brings in…give them a bonus or raise or some extra special something.
And studio owners need to spend time with the teachers. Have one-on-one meetings, ask about clients, have staff meetings and connect with your teachers.
Be on the floor…be out there teaching! Teachers want to feel that owners understand the hourly grind. Again, owners have additional responsibilities to hourly teaching, so can’t teach as many hours, of course, but some is very important. At least subbing.
When teachers feel fully supported, they don’t feel the need to leave. If they are satisfied, paid well, appreciated…why would they go elsewhere?
3 – The Discussion: Whether you wish to have a verbal contract or a written contract, you must talk about the teacher/client/studio issue. Why not say something like “Please remember that the clients we book you with are “studio clients” and not your own clients. I recognize the deep bond that builds between client and teacher, but please remember that the client came to the studio, not directly to you, though you will be doing your job which is to serve the client and the studio…and we will pay you handsomely for that. If there should come a day when you wish to leave this studio, remember that you are not to take any studio clients with you. If you find that you must for some odd reason, let’s discuss and we’ll set up a referral fee situation where you can “buy” the client. 25% of the yearly income the studio makes off of that client.” (That’s just one thought.) But no matter what…this issue needs to be discussed at the very beginning…and then when there is that news that the teacher is leaving…it needs to be discussed again.
A lot of owners don’t like the confrontation of it all…but that’s part of having employees and owning a business. It’s all about confrontation. That doesn’t mean it’s a hard or harsh confrontation…it just means a direct conversation about something that might cause trouble if left unspoken.
4 – Clients: Right from the get-go, tell your clients when they schedule that they need not stay with one teacher…in fact, you support them taking with multiple teachers. That the studio wants to give them all that they need…and one teacher is not always the way to go. So, when scheduling, encourage them to pick a time and day that work, not a teacher. And make sure that teachers have a way to communicate what a client has and hasn’t been doing. A card system that simply states what their ailments are, what exercises they do and what date they started each exercise will do the trick.
If you need a card and want to see how I used to do it at my studio…just ask me…I’ll post it!
In my former studio, I used to say “You can schedule with any teacher at any time. All of our teachers will always know what you’ve been doing so they can always move you forward. It’s great to move around to different teachers so you can get the benefit of different eyes on you!”
5- The Teachers: Lest you thought that I think the responsibility is solely on the owner…it’s not! No matter what it’s not OK to take the clients you’ve been working with at a studio and transfer them to another if you decide to move. And what do you think you’re getting from it? More money? Well, you’ll be burning a major bridge with the studio, you’ll have to pay rent on that client, when you need a substitute teacher, you won’t have anyone to go to…what can you provide singularly that the studio cannot do better? Nothing. So…get your own clients…not the studio’s!
Now, there are rare occasions where you might teach a studio client elsewhere every once in a while. Especially the more well-known your are in the business, you will run into your clients from one studio across the world. If you teach in multiple studios, you might find your client takes sessions at a studio with you near her home and then near her office. I have had this several times. It was happenstance because except when I had my own studio, I always taught and do teach at busy studios that were well-known.
You just must tread carefully in and around. Think carefully about what you’re doing. Your job is to help people. You help yourself by being straightforward and taking care of your promises.
OK…quick, dramatic story I heard many years ago. Is it truth of fiction? I don’t know, but I do know this woman who is the subject of the story and I wouldn’t put it past her! (No…I will not name names! You know me better than that, by now!) This Pilates instructor (She is an instructor not a teacher in that she doesn’t really understand what she is doing or why) who is really well known apparently took the entire database of clients past and present from a studio in Los Angeles (which studio…I will not tell you!). Then she proceeded to call them all and try to get them as clients. Some sort of battle ensued, of course, the extent of which I’m not totally sure. Was she prosecuted? I don’t know. P.S. This lady fakes her own death, changes her name…and is still at it!
What a story!
With that…let’s just be conscious teachers…know your place…think about others…consider what you’re doing as a teacher, as a studio owner and make wise choices. Create a culture of help in this community.
*****Thank you, as always, for taking time to read this entire article! I’m always interested in your thoughts, comments, questions, etc. Please write a comment here. If you have any topics that you’d like me to write about, then e-mail me them at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com and while it might take me a while, I will write about it!
Please take a look at the workshop, session and consultation information below! And…if you’d like to advertise on the newsletter and/or be part of the blog (see the sidebar), let me know and I’ll send you information. In fact, if you’d like to get my newsletter, e-mail me with your e-mail information: info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
Thank you!!!*****
See full details below for:
New York, NY – May 19
New York, NY – June 9 – Please note that this date just changed to June 9
Chicago, IL – June 15 & 16
New York, NY – July 8
San Francisco, CA – POT- July 14 & 15 – see discount info
Hamburg, Germany – August 4
Sao Paolo, BRAZIL – early Sept.
Boston, MA – POT – Sept. 15 - see discount info
Sweden (in the works) – mid-Oct.
Iasi, ROMANIA – Oct. 26-28
Madison, CT – Nov. 11(and more to follow!)
May 19 Real Pilates – New York, NY
Small Ball with Shari Berkowitz
3-6pm
3 PMA CECs (pending)
No Reformer? No Cadillac? No Studio? No Problem! You can use the small ball in nearly any space that can fit a person. Its versatility is remarkable as a bio-feedback tool for your clients, working sometimes like a magic circle, other times like a small barrel and even like a teacher’s hand. Learn how to make this piece of equipment focus, deepen and enlighten your practice. Too often, our props are just that–toys, distraction, fluff. Learn how to bring your students to a new threshold in their practice using this light, portable and economical tool!
Back Issues: Coccyx to C1
2:30p-5:30p
3PMA CECs
With 24 moving vertebrae, discs, muscles, ligaments tendons and nerves…there are bound to be problems from time to time. Some severe, some minor, but all painful and annoying. In this workshop, we’ll work to understand the most common conditions of the back including herniated discs, L5-S1 issues, SI trouble, scoliosis and weak necks and how to address them with Pilates. Bring your questions and basic understanding of the anatomy of the spine and pelvis and an open mind!
For registration and additional information, contact Emilie at center@reabnyc.com
June 15 & 16 Body Endeavors – Chicago, IL
Workshop Times and Content TBA – Stay tuned for more information! There will be PMA credits attached to everything that we chose to do!
July 8 Form Pilates – New York, NY
Time and Fee TBA
BioMechanics: How Our Bodies Really Work and How to Cue That Reality - 6hrs
6PMA CECs
While your physical intuition is an important asset in teaching Pilates, intuition is not enough. To sincerely take care of your clients, you must know the truth of how the body works. Cue the reality, not the myths or mistakes. Being a confident teacher depends on it…demands it. We’ll work to understand the biomechanics and functional anatomy surrounding the pelvis, spine, shoulder girdle and how to apply this information to your teaching. Knowing and understanding is the only way.
To register or for more information, contact Lindsay at formpilates@yahoo.com
July 13-15 in San Francisco, CA – Pilates on Tour
Saturday, July 14 -
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Apparatus on the Apparatus - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Sunday, July 15 -
Morning Mat Class – 1 hr
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information and registration.
POT Discounts:
If you register using my code, you can get $50 off of registration at any POT.
$50 Discount Code: SHARITOUR12
The discounts must be used when registering and are valid for any Pilates on Tour in 2012.
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Special Guest- Workshoptag mit Shari Berkowitz am 04.08.2012 im Studio 1880 in Hamburg!
For more Information regarding pricing, lodging, travelling, CECs etc. please call Power Pilates at +49 40 52570172 or e-mail us info@powerpilates.de. We are happy to answer your questions.
September 14-16 in Boston, MA – Pilates on Tour
Saturday, September 15
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Exercises on the Apparatus - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information and registration
POT Discounts:
If you register using my code, you can get $50 off of registration atany POT.
$50 Discount Code: SHARITOUR12
The discounts must be used when registering and are valid for any Pilates on Tour in 2012.
mid-Oct. – Sweden (in the works)
All Dates and Information TBA! Check back soon!
Oct. 26-28, 2012 – Iasi, ROMANIA – Pilates Convention
The workshops are not set, yet, but date, presenters and location are! Are you in a neighboring country…come to Romania for great workshops and workouts!
Here is what they wrote in their Facebook:
www.pilates-convention.com gets bigger this year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Get also functional and well burned out with aerobics. The new theme of instructors are waiting you on 26-28 October: Shari Berkowitz, Orlando Fit Lopac, Mirela Anic, Giorgio Radici, Antonella Riviera, Mirjan DoubleTrouble, Laura Wilson, Gil Lopes, Paula Drosescu, Tatiana Chesalina, Judith Szereday, and more.
We’ll invite you to learn how to take care of the spine, of the hole body, of the mind, how to have fun with the kids teaching them how te exercise, special population trainings, and so many other things!!!
Looking forward to see you at the convention!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
In a wihle we’ll up-date the location, prices and shedule!
Thill then, don’t make other plans for 26-28 october, 2012!!!!
I’ll post more information when I get it to share with you!
Nov. 11, 2012 – Pilates Barn – Madison, CT
All information TBA – Check back soon!
**************
And so many more workshops to come…we can do one at your studio, too!
****Please share this information and tell your Pilates teacher friends and colleagues to come on over for workouts and workshops that will get your Pilates-teaching-juices flowing.****
Again, these are not your typical workshops where you might get 1 useful tidbit. You will leave full of new teaching skills and ways to look at Mr. Pilates work. You will have a new perspective on Pilates that will enliven your teaching and your own workouts!
Shall we set up something at your studio or the one you work at? Clearly, I travel to teach and enjoy it! Read below for more info!
Workshops in Your Studio:
If you are interested in my teaching workshops and/or semi-private sessions for your teachers at your studio, please contact me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
I’ll be thrilled to put together a program with you for your needs!
While my vocabulary is classical Pilates, the principles behind my teaching and workshops apply to every style of Pilates.
We have countless topics to play with within technique workshops of classical Pilates and teaching skills workshop that apply to all!
*******
Sessions:
If you’re in NYC and want a Pilates session e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
And I’m Westchester, NY on Thursdays.
Workshops:
If you’d like a workshop and/or semi-privates at your studio, e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com I travel all over the world and would be thrilled to come to you!
Consultation:
If you’d like to set up a meeting on the phone or in person to ask questions about teaching or building/maintaining your business, e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
****Thank you, as always, for taking the time to read this blog! I hope you’ll search around the blog and find articles that appeal to you, write comments, ask questions…I hope you’ll really make use of this! Then…I do hope to work with you in person, too!
Enjoy!
- Shari
Update on…Upcoming Workshops and Conferences as of May 26, 2012
See full details below for:
New York, NY – May 19
New York, NY – June 9 – Please note that this date just changed to June 9
Chicago, IL – June 15 & 16
New York, NY – July 8
San Francisco, CA – POT- July 14 & 15 – see discount info
Hamburg, Germany – August 4
Sao Paolo, BRAZIL – early Sept.
Boston, MA – POT – Sept. 15 - see discount info
Sweden (in the works) – mid-Oct.
Iasi, ROMANIA – Oct. 26-28
Madison, CT – Nov. 11(and more to follow!)
May 19 Real Pilates – New York, NY
Small Ball with Shari Berkowitz
3-6pm
3 PMA CECs (pending)
No Reformer? No Cadillac? No Studio? No Problem! You can use the small ball in nearly any space that can fit a person. Its versatility is remarkable as a bio-feedback tool for your clients, working sometimes like a magic circle, other times like a small barrel and even like a teacher’s hand. Learn how to make this piece of equipment focus, deepen and enlighten your practice. Too often, our props are just that–toys, distraction, fluff. Learn how to bring your students to a new threshold in their practice using this light, portable and economical tool!
Back Issues: Coccyx to C1
2:30p-5:30p
3PMA CECs
With 24 moving vertebrae, discs, muscles, ligaments tendons and nerves…there are bound to be problems from time to time. Some severe, some minor, but all painful and annoying. In this workshop, we’ll work to understand the most common conditions of the back including herniated discs, L5-S1 issues, SI trouble, scoliosis and weak necks and how to address them with Pilates. Bring your questions and basic understanding of the anatomy of the spine and pelvis and an open mind!
For registration and additional information, contact Emilie at center@reabnyc.com
June 15 & 16 Body Endeavors – Chicago, IL
Workshop Times and Content TBA – Stay tuned for more information! There will be PMA credits attached to everything that we chose to do!
July 8 Form Pilates – New York, NY
Time and Fee TBA
BioMechanics: How Our Bodies Really Work and How to Cue That Reality - 6hrs
6PMA CECs
While your physical intuition is an important asset in teaching Pilates, intuition is not enough. To sincerely take care of your clients, you must know the truth of how the body works. Cue the reality, not the myths or mistakes. Being a confident teacher depends on it…demands it. We’ll work to understand the biomechanics and functional anatomy surrounding the pelvis, spine, shoulder girdle and how to apply this information to your teaching. Knowing and understanding is the only way.
To register or for more information, contact Lindsay at formpilates@yahoo.com
July 13-15 in San Francisco, CA – Pilates on Tour
Saturday, July 14 -
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Apparatus on the Apparatus - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Sunday, July 15 -
Morning Mat Class – 1 hr
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information and registration.
POT Discounts:
If you register using my code, you can get $50 off of registration at any POT.
$50 Discount Code: SHARITOUR12
The discounts must be used when registering and are valid for any Pilates on Tour in 2012.
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Special Guest- Workshoptag mit Shari Berkowitz am 04.08.2012 im Studio 1880 in Hamburg!
For more Information regarding pricing, lodging, travelling, CECs etc. please call Power Pilates at +49 40 52570172 or e-mail us info@powerpilates.de. We are happy to answer your questions.
September 14-16 in Boston, MA – Pilates on Tour
Saturday, September 15
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Exercises on the Apparatus - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information and registration
POT Discounts:
If you register using my code, you can get $50 off of registration atany POT.
$50 Discount Code: SHARITOUR12
The discounts must be used when registering and are valid for any Pilates on Tour in 2012.
mid-Oct. – Sweden (in the works)
All Dates and Information TBA! Check back soon!
Oct. 26-28, 2012 – Iasi, ROMANIA – Pilates Convention
The workshops are not set, yet, but date, presenters and location are! Are you in a neighboring country…come to Romania for great workshops and workouts!
Here is what they wrote in their Facebook:
www.pilates-convention.com gets bigger this year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Get also functional and well burned out with aerobics. The new theme of instructors are waiting you on 26-28 October: Shari Berkowitz, Orlando Fit Lopac, Mirela Anic, Giorgio Radici, Antonella Riviera, Mirjan DoubleTrouble, Laura Wilson, Gil Lopes, Paula Drosescu, Tatiana Chesalina, Judith Szereday, and more.
We’ll invite you to learn how to take care of the spine, of the hole body, of the mind, how to have fun with the kids teaching them how te exercise, special population trainings, and so many other things!!!
Looking forward to see you at the convention!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
In a wihle we’ll up-date the location, prices and shedule!
Thill then, don’t make other plans for 26-28 october, 2012!!!!
I’ll post more information when I get it to share with you!
Nov. 11, 2012 – Pilates Barn – Madison, CT
All information TBA – Check back soon!
**************
And so many more workshops to come…we can do one at your studio, too!
****Please share this information and tell your Pilates teacher friends and colleagues to come on over for workouts and workshops that will get your Pilates-teaching-juices flowing.****
Again, these are not your typical workshops where you might get 1 useful tidbit. You will leave full of new teaching skills and ways to look at Mr. Pilates work. You will have a new perspective on Pilates that will enliven your teaching and your own workouts!
Shall we set up something at your studio or the one you work at? Clearly, I travel to teach and enjoy it! Read below for more info!
Workshops in Your Studio:
If you are interested in my teaching workshops and/or semi-private sessions for your teachers at your studio, please contact me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
I’ll be thrilled to put together a program with you for your needs!
While my vocabulary is classical Pilates, the principles behind my teaching and workshops apply to every style of Pilates.
We have countless topics to play with within technique workshops of classical Pilates and teaching skills workshop that apply to all!
****Thank you, as always, for taking the time to read this blog! I hope you’ll search around the blog and find articles that appeal to you, write comments, ask questions…I hope you’ll really make use of this! Then…I do hope to work with you in person, too!
Enjoy!!!
- Shari
Upcoming Workshops and Conferences as of May 16, 2012
See full details below for:
New York, NY – May 19
New York, NY – June 9 – Please note that this date just changed to June 9
Chicago, IL – June 15 & 16
New York, NY – July 8
San Francisco, CA – POT- July 14 & 15 – see discount info
Hamburg, Germany – August 4
Sao Paolo, BRAZIL – early Sept.
Boston, MA – POT – Sept. 15 - see discount info
Sweden (in the works) – mid-Oct.
Iasi, ROMANIA – Oct. 26-28
Madison, CT – Nov. 11(and more to follow!)
May 19 Real Pilates – New York, NY
Small Ball with Shari Berkowitz
3-6pm
3 PMA CECs (pending)
No Reformer? No Cadillac? No Studio? No Problem! You can use the small ball in nearly any space that can fit a person. Its versatility is remarkable as a bio-feedback tool for your clients, working sometimes like a magic circle, other times like a small barrel and even like a teacher’s hand. Learn how to make this piece of equipment focus, deepen and enlighten your practice. Too often, our props are just that–toys, distraction, fluff. Learn how to bring your students to a new threshold in their practice using this light, portable and economical tool!
Back Issues: Coccyx to C1
2:30p-5:30p
3PMA CECs
With 24 moving vertebrae, discs, muscles, ligaments tendons and nerves…there are bound to be problems from time to time. Some severe, some minor, but all painful and annoying. In this workshop, we’ll work to understand the most common conditions of the back including herniated discs, L5-S1 issues, SI trouble, scoliosis and weak necks and how to address them with Pilates. Bring your questions and basic understanding of the anatomy of the spine and pelvis and an open mind!
For registration and additional information, contact Emilie at center@reabnyc.com
June 15 & 16 Body Endeavors – Chicago, IL
Workshop Times and Content TBA – Stay tuned for more information! There will be PMA credits attached to everything that we chose to do!
July 8 Form Pilates – New York, NY
Time and Fee TBA
BioMechanics: How Our Bodies Really Work and How to Cue That Reality - 6hrs
6PMA CECs
While your physical intuition is an important asset in teaching Pilates, intuition is not enough. To sincerely take care of your clients, you must know the truth of how the body works. Cue the reality, not the myths or mistakes. Being a confident teacher depends on it…demands it. We’ll work to understand the biomechanics and functional anatomy surrounding the pelvis, spine, shoulder girdle and how to apply this information to your teaching. Knowing and understanding is the only way.
To register or for more information, contact Lindsay at formpilates@yahoo.com
July 13-15 in San Francisco, CA – Pilates on Tour
Saturday, July 14 -
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Apparatus on the Apparatus - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Sunday, July 15 -
Morning Mat Class – 1 hr
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information and registration.
POT Discounts:
If you register using my code, you can get $50 off of registration at any POT.
$50 Discount Code: SHARITOUR12
The discounts must be used when registering and are valid for any Pilates on Tour in 2012.
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Special Guest- Workshoptag mit Shari Berkowitz am 04.08.2012 im Studio 1880 in Hamburg!
September 14-16 in Boston, MA – Pilates on Tour
Saturday, September 15
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Exercises on the Apparatus - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information and registration
POT Discounts:
If you register using my code, you can get $50 off of registration atany POT.
$50 Discount Code: SHARITOUR12
The discounts must be used when registering and are valid for any Pilates on Tour in 2012.
mid-Oct. – Sweden (in the works)
All Dates and Information TBA! Check back soon!
Oct. 26-28, 2012 – Iasi, ROMANIA – Pilates Convention
The workshops are not set, yet, but date, presenters and location are! Are you in a neighboring country…come to Romania for great workshops and workouts!
Here is what they wrote in their Facebook:
www.pilates-convention.com gets bigger this year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Get also functional and well burned out with aerobics. The new theme of instructors are waiting you on 26-28 October: Shari Berkowitz, Orlando Fit Lopac, Mirela Anic, Giorgio Radici, Antonella Riviera, Mirjan DoubleTrouble, Laura Wilson, Gil Lopes, Paula Drosescu, Tatiana Chesalina, Judith Szereday, and more.
We’ll invite you to learn how to take care of the spine, of the hole body, of the mind, how to have fun with the kids teaching them how te exercise, special population trainings, and so many other things!!!
Looking forward to see you at the convention!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
In a wihle we’ll up-date the location, prices and shedule!
Thill then, don’t make other plans for 26-28 october, 2012!!!!
I’ll post more information when I get it to share with you!
Nov. 11, 2012 – Pilates Barn – Madison, CT
All information TBA – Check back soon!
**************
And so many more workshops to come…we can do one at your studio, too!
****Please share this information and tell your Pilates teacher friends and colleagues to come on over for workouts and workshops that will get your Pilates-teaching-juices flowing.****
Again, these are not your typical workshops where you might get 1 useful tidbit. You will leave full of new teaching skills and ways to look at Mr. Pilates work. You will have a new perspective on Pilates that will enliven your teaching and your own workouts!
Shall we set up something at your studio or the one you work at? Clearly, I travel to teach and enjoy it! Read below for more info!
Workshops in Your Studio:
If you are interested in my teaching workshops and/or semi-private sessions for your teachers at your studio, please contact me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
I’ll be thrilled to put together a program with you for your needs!
While my vocabulary is classical Pilates, the principles behind my teaching and workshops apply to every style of Pilates.
We have countless topics to play with within technique workshops of classical Pilates and teaching skills workshop that apply to all!
****Thank you, as always, for taking the time to read this blog! I hope you’ll search around the blog and find articles that appeal to you, write comments, ask questions…I hope you’ll really make use of this! Then…I do hope to work with you in person, too!
Enjoy!!!
- Shari
10 sessions, 20 sessions, 30 session….
“In 10 sessions, you feel better, 20 sessions you look better, 30 sessions you have a completely new body.”
You’ve heard and read this quote over and over again. What’s it about and is this so?
You know that the more often you do Pilates, the more quickly and intensely you see and feel a difference in your body. The more you do anything, the more you learn and change. That’s how change happens…through repetition…and not repeating just once a month, but often. When we study anything, if we practice at least three (3) times a week, we learn and reinforce. Every other day. Between practice sessions, do you stop working? No, no…you are processing and evaluation and adjusting subconsciously and even consciously between sessions. Then the next day you practice again. This is how we study a language, a musical instrument, a form of dance, etc…same thing with exercise and Pilates.
Now, what about this 10, 20, 30 thing?
When I’ve spoken to former clients of Mr. Pilates, I am reminded that this statement was 10, 20, 30 sessions with Mr. Pilates himself…and 3 times a week! Can you imagine how much you would change working with him?
So, it’s not 30 sessions over 4 months. It’s 12 sessions, at least, a month…that’s just over 2 months of sessions with the master of masters…change will happen.
Does this mean that your clients can’t see results with us/we who are not Mr. Pilates? Of course they will see results…and do!
With that, should you use this fun 10, 20, 30 statement…please use it well. Ensure that your clients commit to 3 times a week and work with the best teacher to get those results! It won’t happen with less. 10 sessions with 3 per week means that in just over 3 weeks they will likely feel better…and feeling is where it all begins. We feel results before we see them. 3 weeks at 3 times a week of continuous focused and strong (appropriate for the individual client) movement for 55 minutes to feel a difference. Let’s not lure our clients to believe anything other. Then 20 sessions with 3 per week means that in just over 6 weeks they will likely see a difference and look better. That’s a month and a half of sincere commitment. Then we’ve got 30 sessions with 3 per week. That’s 10 weeks. 10 weeks is 2 and a half months. That’s a serious commitment to have a completely new body.
Now…when you talk 10, 20, 30 in your marketing, are you sure your clients are taking 3 private sessions with the highest level teacher?
And…
When Mr. Pilates was alive, he was also encouraging his clients to do the mat work on their own at home. He wanted people to do Pilates at least 4 times a week to really make a difference. He wrote the seminal home Pilates workout book “Return to Life Through Contrology” before our modern colleagues wrote their books and taped their videos. Then man had a plan for fitness. If we use this phrase…we must use it correctly.
Now, does that mean that our clients cannot benefit with less than 3 times a week for months and hopefully always? Of course not! People can achieve a lot with 1 or 2 times a week if they apply the actions they learn in Pilates (not the exercises, but the actions for stability and opposition) to their other activities, workouts and life! Some people might only need 1 session a month to made tremendous changes.
Is appropriate to encourage our clients to do 3 sessions. If their schedules and bank accounts don’t allow that, then 2 or 1 or supplement with group classes or take with multiple levels of teachers and practice at home…let’s help them get the most out of the time and money they spend.
That brings me to homework. Why not give your clients homework. I remember it being very effective for me when I first started. I was told to do 5 repetitions of each of the Abdominal Series of Five every day. At first, I was a little shocked that I had homework…then excited! I did it and, no surprise, I got stronger! I tell my clients at the end of the session on Day 1 that they have homework. They do look shocked until I tell them what it is: during the day, as often as you can recall, lift your abdominals in and up and lift your lower back bones. Maybe you’ll remember 1 time a day, maybe more…but anything is more than you’ve been doing since this is a new set of actions…so that’s what you can do for yourself until we meet again. In time, I give them more and more of the work until they start asking for lists and such to use while on vacation, etc. Doing Pilates outside of the session becomes the norm.
Back to 10, 20, 30….clearly it is a great marketing tool! It really works when done as intended: 3 times a week in private sessions with the top teacher. It will even work with the least senior teacher. But 3 times a week in privates. Less than that will work, too. Classes instead of privates will work, too…but make sure you know what you’re saying when you state “In 10 sessions, you feel better, 20 sessions you look better, 30 sessions you have a completely new body.” Know what was meant by it…the context when Mr. Pilates said it and consider how you will ensure that you’re giving what you’re saying.
Always so straightforward I am…it’s true. We have to take responsibility for what we say, teach, share in this burgeoning business we call Pilates. We must critically think, examine, determine if what we learn and teach is so…is true.
And…then do we do what we’re asking our clients to do? 3 times a week of full-out Pilates? At one of the studios I teach out of, this one teacher always comes by during my workout and asks “Pilates, again?” or “working out again?”. And I say “of course”!
Work out, enjoy, teach well, critically think!
****As always, I thank you for taking the time to read this piece. I hope you find great value in this and the other posts/articles. Comment and ask questions about this and anything Pilates! If you’d like to subscribe, please look to do so on the side bar. If you’d like to be on my newsletter mailing list, email me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com and request to be on the list. Please invite your colleagues to read these articles! And let’s work together somewhere soon! Here’s where I’m at besides on this blog:
2012 Pilates Workshop Schedule
See full details below for:
London, ENGLAND – Mar. 17, 18, 19, 20
Geneva, SWITZERLAND – March 24 & 25
Pleasantville, NY – April 14
New York, NY – May 19
New York, NY – June 2
New York, NY – July 8
San Francisco, CA – POT- July 14 & 15 – see discount info
Hamburg, GERMANY – August 4
Sao Paolo, BRAZIL – early Sept.
Boston, MA – POT – Sept. 15 – see discount info
Sweden (in the works) – mid-Oct.
Iasi, ROMANIA – Oct. 26-28
Madison, CT – Nov. 11
(and more to follow!)
March 17-20 at Pi Studios – London, ENGLAND
March 17th Saturday
9am to 9.45 am – Mat Workout
10am to 1pm – Great Groups and Sensational Semis
1pm to 2pm- LUNCH
2pm to 5pm – The Shoulder Girdle
March 18th Sunday
9am to 10am – Joseph Pilates. Retrospective and Perspective
10am to 12pm – Teaching Tower Classes
12pm to 1pm – LUNCH
1pm to 5pm – Flow and Rhythm and Opposition making the session a workout at any level
Monday 19th semi private or private workout day
10am 11am 12pm 1pm
Tuesday 20th semi private or private workout day
10am 11am 12pm 1pm
SP & PRIVATES PRICING
Semi private £40
Private £90
Please let us know and we will book you in accordingly.
WORKSHOP PRICING
Mat Workout £15
Great Groups and Sensational Semis £150
The Shoulder Girdle £150
Joseph Pilates. Retrospective and Perspective £50
Teaching Tower Classes £100
Flow and Rhythm and Opposition making the session a workout at any level £200
FULL DAY DISCOUNTS – IF BOUGHT BEFORE FEB 19TH 2012
Saturday 17th only: £280
Sunday 18th only: £325
All Workshops and Mat Class £550.
WORKSHOPS
Great Groups and Sensational Semis – 3 hours
3PMA CECs
Group classes and Semi-Privates are a reality in modern day Pilates, but were you ever really trained on how to make them successful? Shari will teach you the guidelines, tools and techniques to easily teach flowing, fun and fantastic Groups and Semi-Privates Sessions on all Apparatus. Learn to mix up what you are teaching to add variety, and also how to work with multiple levels of clients at one time so they can grow individually. Be ready to learn and practice these skills in this dynamic workshop.
The Shoulder Girdle: A Delicate Balance – 3 hours
3PMA CECs
The Shoulder Girdle is a complex system. When I first started teaching, all I knew was “pull your wings down” and “crack a walnut”. The more I study biomechanics, the more I know there is very little down and no cracking. It’s a delicate balance of bone, muscles, ligaments and tendons… and constant reassessing. Dynamic stability is what we are looking for. Let’s spend time studying where we’re going with the shoulder girdle and how to get there in Pilates. We’ll take time with the anatomy and biomechanics, Pilates exercises, common aliments and all of your questions. Take a moment to review what you already know before the workshop… then we can grow from there.
Joseph Pilates. Retrospective and Perspective – 1 hour
This is one of the most important workshops of the weekend.
1PMA CEC
If you call yourself a Pilates teacher then it is essential you know and can talk about Mr. Pilates. The more you know about Pilates the man where he came from, and what he was looking to achieve, the more inspired you will be, and can inspire your clients!
Teaching the Tower Classes – 2 hours
2PMA CECs
“Use what you’ve learned in Sat.’s Great Groups and Serious Semis” to deepen the hands-on skills and creative projects for Sundays Teaching Tower Class”. In your Tower classes, there are people of all levels, many who have never seen or been on the Tower in your class and some who are pretty advanced, as well. How do you create a class that takes care of them all? Let’s take the time to learn how to create a really safe, strong and challenging classes on the Tower. The are special guidelines and progressions you can follow and great ways to make a fantastic class for everyone… including you as a teacher! Shake up your classes, learn new and exciting variations and progressions to challenge both physically and mentally clients of all levels.
Flow, Rhythm and Opposition – Making the session a workout at any level – 4 hours
4PMA CECs
This is the ‘giant’ in workshop learning. Flow is much more than moving quickly through a list of exercises. Let’s figure out what flow is and how to create it within each move, reception and exercise. Flow has a lot to do with how you think of the workout and how you use your voice to set rhythms, give accents and emphasize certain points of each exercise. It will change your teaching for the better. Opposition; the key to stability. Every exercise must continually lengthen and deepen…..nothing is held tightly or compressed, learn how to cue opposition into the Pilates work out and into your clients bodies.
LOCATION
Pi Studio Battersea, 6 Cotwold Mews, Battersea Square, SW11 3HB
Please contact Marsha for booking and payment on: – Telephone: 020 7585 1114 Email: mail@pistudiobattersea.co.uk
March 24 & 25 in Geneva, SWITZERLAND
Saturday, March 24
Advanced Mat Class 10a-10:50a
Wonderful Wunda Chair – 3 hrs
3PMA CECs
The Wunda Chair is often misunderstood and feared. With the new influx of wunda chair classes, truly understanding the chair, its history, exercises and uses is even more important than ever. It’s one of the most versatile and exciting pieces of apparatus in the studio. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to use it as part of or as a complete session always keeping movement flowing with purpose.
Creative Spine Corrector – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
In this workshop, you’ll learn how to transform your Spine Corrector into one of the most useful piece of apparatus in your studio! You will learn how to do and teach an entire flowing workout/session on the Spine Corrector as well as how to use just a handful of exercises to enhance a full workout. With over 40 exercises, there’s a lot to work on and discover. You will also learn how to organize the exercises, how to position the clients on the apparatus and where to be to spot and cue the exercises as the teacher. It’s surprising how special and important you’ll find Spine Corrector.
Sunday, March 25
Biomechanics: How Our Bodies Really Work and How to Cue That Reality – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
While your physical intuition is an important asset in teaching Pilates, intuition is not enough. To sincerely take care of your clients, you must know the truth of how the body works. Cue the reality, not the myths or mistakes. Being a confident teacher depends on it…demands it. We’ll work to understand the bio-mechanics surrounding the pelvis, spine, shoulder girdle and how to apply this information to your teaching. Knowing and understanding is the only way.
Beyond the Everyday: Archival Exercises on the Apparatus - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Contact Melania McLaughlin at Linea Pilates atmelania.mclaughlin@gmail.com for more information and registration www.lineapilates.net
April 14 Pilates Connection – Pleasantville (Westchester), NY
Time and Fee TBA
Back Issues: Coccyx to C1
3 hrs
3PMA CECs (pending)
With 24 moving vertebrae, discs, muscles, ligaments tendons and nerves…there are bound to be problems from time to time. Some severe, some minor, but all painful and annoying. In this workshop, we’ll work to understand the most common conditions of the back including herniated discs, L5-S1 issues, SI trouble, scoliosis and weak necks and how to address them with Pilates. Bring your questions and basic understanding of the anatomy of the spine and pelvis and an open mind!
Creative Spine Corrector
3hrs
3PMA CECs
In this workshop, you’ll learn how to transform your Spine Corrector into one of the most useful piece of apparatus in your studio! You will learn how to do and teach an entire flowing workout/session on the Spine Corrector as well as how to use just a handful of exercises to enhance a full workout. With over 40 exercises, there’s a lot to work on and discover. You will also learn how to organize the exercises, how to position the clients on the apparatus and where to be to spot and cue the exercises as the teacher. It’s surprising how special and important you’ll find Spine Corrector.
To register, contact Denise at Pilates Connection: pilatesconnect@optonline.net or 914.747.4711
May 19 Real Pilates – New York, NY
Small Ball with Shari Berkowitz
3-6pm
3 PMA CECs (pending)
No Reformer? No Cadillac? No Studio? No Problem! You can use the small ball in nearly any space that can fit a person. Its versatility is remarkable as a bio-feedback tool for your clients, working sometimes like a magic circle, other times like a small barrel and even like a teacher’s hand. Learn how to make this piece of equipment focus, deepen and enlighten your practice. Too often, our props are just that–toys, distraction, fluff. Learn how to bring your students to a new threshold in their practice using this light, portable and economical tool!
For registration information and pricing, go to: www.realpilatesnyc.com or call 212.625.0777
June 2 re:AB – New York, NY
Workshop and Time TBD – Stay tuned for more information
There will be PMA credits attached to whatever we chose to do.
July 8 Form Pilates, New York, NY
Time and Fee TBA
Biomechanics: How Our Bodies Really Work and How to Cue That Reality – 6hrs
6PMA CECs
While your physical intuition is an important asset in teaching Pilates, intuition is not enough. To sincerely take care of your clients, you must know the truth of how the body works. Cue the reality, not the myths or mistakes. Being a confident teacher depends on it…demands it. We’ll work to understand the biomechanics and functional anatomy surrounding the pelvis, spine, shoulder girdle and how to apply this information to your teaching. Knowing and understanding is the only way.
To register or for more information, contact Lindsay atformpilates@yahoo.com
July 13-15 in San Francisco, CA – Pilates on Tour -
Saturday, July 14 -
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Apparatus on the Apparatus – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Sunday, July 15 -
Morning Mat Class – 1 hr
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information and registration.
POT Discounts:
If you register using my code, you can get $50 off of registration atany POT.
$50 Discount Code: SHARITOUR12
The discounts must be used when registering and are valid for any Pilates on Tour in 2012.
August 4, 2012 – Hamburg, GERMANY – Studio 1880
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Flow is much more than moving quickly through a list of exercises. Let’s figure out what flow is and how to create it within each move, repetition and exercise. Flow has a lot to do with how you think of the workout and how you use your voice to set rhythms, give accents and emphasize certain points of each exercise. It will change your teaching for the better!
Registration information to follow, but if you want to connect with the studio, now: http://www.studio1880.de/
September in Sao Paolo, BRAZIL – Much information to come.
September 14-16 in Boston, MA – Pilates on Tour -
Saturday, September 15
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Exercises on the Apparatus – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information and registration
POT Discounts:
If you register using my code, you can get $50 off of registration atany POT.
$50 Discount Code: SHARITOUR12
The discounts must be used when registering and are valid for any Pilates on Tour in 2012.
October in Sweden much more information to follow…
October 26-28 in Iasi, Romania
Tonus Pilates
Convention
A tremendous amount of information to follow…
November 11 in Madison, CT
Pilates Barn
More formation to follow
And there will be many more workshops where we can work together…I’ll keep you informed as they all become solidified! If you’d like to be included on my newsletter to get monthly information, subscribe to this blog and/or e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
Workshops in Your Studio:
If you are interested in my teaching workshops and/or semi-private sessions for your teachers at your studio, please contact me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com I’ll be thrilled to put together a program with you for your needs!
While my vocabulary is classical Pilates, the principles behind my teaching and workshops apply to every style of Pilates.
We have countless topics to play with within technique workshops of classical Pilates and teaching skills workshop that apply to all!
*******
Sessions:
If you’re in NYC and want a Pilates session e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
And I’m Westchester, NY on Thursdays.
Workshops:
If you’d like a workshop and/or semi-privates at your studio, e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com I travel all over the world and would be thrilled to come to you!
Consultation:
If you’d like to set up a meeting on the phone or in person to ask questions about teaching or building/maintaining your business, e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
Enjoy!- Shari
Pick and Choose (Feb. 2012)- An Article For Everyone!
Joseph Pilates and friends at Jacob's Pillow - photographer unknown
- Join Me: Workshops Near You!
- Shoulder Girdle: A Delicate Balance
- Doing Wrong To Get To Right?
- Lift Your Abdominals and Lower Back Bones Like Your Life Depends On It…Because It Does!
- Curl Your Chin To Your Chest? No, Thank You!
- What’s The Point Of It All?
- First Things First
- Breathe. Breathe In. Breath Out. Just Breathe!
- Lock Joints? Don’t Lock Joints? What do we do?
- Pilatespeak – Choose Your Words Carefully2011/06/07
- Pilates…a Profession?2011/05/04
- Neutral Pelvis and Neutral Spine: What are they and why do we care?!2011/04/01
- Bowed Legs – Another Knee Issue2011/02/27
- Anatomy – Where do I begin?!2011/02/08
- One more tidbit about knees…all knees…2011/01/18
- Knock-Knees Part II2011/01/02
- Knock-Knees and Pilates2010/12/12
- Advancing to the Ideal: Modify and then Advance2010/11/23
- Pilates Teachers, what do you need?2010/11/12
- Flow, rushing, pacing…what’s it all about?2010/10/07
- Purpose and Legacy2010/09/28
- Commanding Your Class – A question from a reader2010/09/08
- Breathing – That’s What Your Nose Is For!2010/08/18
- Classical Confusion: Clarifying the Definition of Classical Pilates2010/08/02
- “Success Story” – Pilates Style2010/07/13
- Independence: It’s fundamental to Pilates!2010/07/04
- Cues: A Handful of Great Ones Are All You Need2010/06/18
- Rome Opens My Eyes: Pilates’ Place in the World of Fitness!2010/06/16
- Gym Mentality: How to Win Over the Gym Pilates Client2010/06/04
- Pilates Olympics Extravaganza! Fantastic!2010/05/25
- Lower Abdominals: How can we teach our clients (and ourselves) to connect?2010/05/06
- Creating a Holiday: Pilates Day Everyday!2010/04/30
- Positive Cueing – Teach What To Do, Not What Not To Do!2010/04/16
- Teaching Mixed Level Semi-Private Sessions – Guidelines2010/04/14
- Group Classes – Multi-tasking the Multi-level Group Class2010/04/07
- Pilates Apparatus – So many different manufacturers. Can we teach on anything?2010/03/30
- Pilates Myth: “Get out of your hip flexors”2010/03/19
- Improvisation in Pilates2009/10/29
- Heart Starter2009/08/17
- Entropy has no place in Pilates2009/06/26
- Taking the Mystery Out of Pilates2009/06/06
- The Value of the Entire Method of Pilates2009/05/30
- Go to what scares you the most!2009/04/12
- Those Pesky Ribs – Poppin out all over the place!2009/02/04
- Expectations: It’s About Growth – Not Perfection2008/11/30
- What is one thing you learned today?2008/10/20
- 4 Pilates Stances – Deeper discussion on parallel vs. external rotation2008/10/02
- Parallel vs. “Turn Out”/External Rotation2008/08/14
- Back to Basics: Honor Every Position…especially the last part!2008/08/03
- Back to Basics – Part 2 – Would Mr. Pilates Recognize That Exercise?2008/07/14
- Back to Basics – Part 1 of The Series2008/06/23
- Half Effort is Wasted Effort2008/05/12
- 4 Teaching Tips2008/04/23
- Hips Up…Shoulders Back!2008/03/19
- Don’t be afraid to teach2008/02/21
- Classical Excitement!2008/01/27
- Keep the Common Exercises Uncommon! – Will Wonders Never Cease?2008/01/09
- Remember what it’s all about.2008/01/02
- Confidence2007/12/01
- Thankful for Pilates2007/11/23
- Practice What You Teach2007/11/14
- Create “A Community of Help”
See full details below for:
Feb. 26 – Rhinebeck, NY
March 17, 18, 19, 20 – London, ENGLAND
March 24&25 – Geneva, SWITZERLAND
July 14&15 – San Francisco, CA
September (within the first 2 weeks of September)– Sao Paolo, BRAZIL
September 15 – Boston, MA
(and more to follow!)
February 26 – Rhinebeck, NY
Bio-Mechanics: How Our Bodies Really Work and How to Cue That Reality - 6hrs
6PMA CECs
While your physical intuition is an important asset in teaching Pilates, intuition is not enough. To sincerely take care of your clients, you must know the truth of how the body works. Cue the reality, not the myths or mistakes. Being a confident teacher depends on it…demands it. We’ll work to understand the bio-mechanics surrounding the pelvis, spine, shoulder girdle and how to apply this information to your teaching. Knowing and understanding is the only way.
Contact Elaine Ewing at elaine@RhinebeckPilates.com or go towww.RhinebeckPilates.com for more information
March 17-20 at Pi Studios – London, ENGLAND
March 17th Saturday
9am to 9.45 am – Mat Workout
10am to 1pm – Great Groups and Sensational Semis
1pm to 2pm- LUNCH
2pm to 5pm – The Shoulder Girdle
March 18th Sunday
9am to 10am – Joseph Pilates. Retrospective and Perspective.
10am to 12pm – Teaching Tower Classes.
12pm to 1pm – LUNCH
1pm to 5pm – Flow and Rhythm and Opposition making the session a workout at any level.
Monday 19th semi private or private workout day
10am 11am 12pm 1pm
Tuesday 20th semi private or private workout day
10am 11am 12pm 1pm
SP & PRIVATES PRICING
Semi private £40
Private £90
Please let us know and we will book you in accordingly.
WORKSHOP PRICING
Mat Workout £15
Great Groups and Sensational Semis £150
The Shoulder Girdle £150
Joseph Pilates. Retrospective and Perspective. £50
Teaching Tower Classes £100
Flow and Rhythm and Opposition making the session a workout at any level £200
FULL DAY DISCOUNTS – IF BOUGHT BEFORE FEB 19TH 2012
Saturday 17th only: £280
Sunday 18th only: £325
All Workshops and Mat Class £550.
WORKSHOPS
Great Groups and Sensational Semi’s – 3 hours
3PMA CECs
Group classes and Semi-Privates are a reality in modern day Pilates, but were you ever really trained on how to make them successful? Shari will teach you the guidelines, tools and techniques to easily teach flowing, fun and fantastic Groups and Semi-Privates Sessions on all Apparatus. Learn to mix up what you are teaching to add variety, and also how to work with multiple levels of clients at one time so they can grow individually. Be ready to learn and practice these skills in this dynamic workshop.
The Shoulder Girdle - 3 hours
3PMA CECs
The Shoulder Girdle is a complex system. When I first started teaching, all I knew was “pull your wings down” and “crack a walnut”. The more I study biomechanics, the more I know there is very little down and no cracking. It’s a delicate balance of bone, muscles, ligaments and tendons… and constant reassessing. Dynamic stability is what we are looking for. Let’s spend time studying where we’re going with the shoulder girdle and how to get there in Pilates. We’ll take time with the anatomy and biomechanics, Pilates exercises, common aliments and all of your questions. Take a moment to review what you already know before the workshop… then we can grow from there.
Joseph Pilates. Retrospective and Perspective – 1 hour
This is one of the most important workshops of the weekend.
1PMA CEC
If you call yourself a Pilates teacher then it is essential you know and can talk about Mr. Pilates. The more you know about Pilates the man where he came from, and what he was looking to achieve, the more inspired you will be, and can inspire your clients!
Teaching the Tower Classes – 2 hours
2PMA CECs
“Use what you’ve learned in Sat.’s Great Groups and Serious Semis” to deepen the hands-on skills and creative projects for Sundays Teaching Tower Class”. In your Tower classes, there are people of all levels, many who have never seen or been on the Tower in your class and some who are pretty advanced, as well. How do you create a class that takes care of them all? Let’s take the time to learn how to create a really safe, strong and challenging classes on the Tower. The are special guidelines and progressions you can follow and great ways to make a fantastic class for everyone… including you as a teacher! Shake up your classes, learn new and exciting variations and progressions to challenge both physically and mentally clients of all levels.
Flow, Rhythm and Oppostion – Making the session a workout at any level – 4 hours
4PMA CECs
This is the ‘giant’ in workshop learning. Flow is much more than moving quickly through a list of exercises. Let’s figure out what flow is and how to create it within each move, reception and exercise. Flow has a lot to do with how you think of the workout and how you use your voice to set rhythms, give accents and emphasize certain points of each exercise. It will change your teaching for the better. Opposition; the key to stability. Every exercise must continually lengthen and deepen…..nothing is held tightly or compressed, learn how to cue opposition into the Pilates work out and into your clients bodies.
LOCATION
Pi Studio Battersea, 6 Cotwold Mews, Battersea Square, SW11 3HB
Please contact Marsha for booking and payment on: – Telephone: 020 7585 1114Email: mail@pistudiobattersea.co.uk
March 24 & 25 in Geneva, SWITZERLAND
Saturday, March 24
Advanced Mat Class 10a-10:50a
Wonderful Wunda Chair – 3 hrs
3PMA CECs
The Wunda Chair is often misunderstood and feared. With the new influx of wunda chair classes, truly understanding the chair, its history, exercises and uses is even more important than ever. It’s one of the most versatile and exciting pieces of apparatus in the studio. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to use it as part of or as a complete session always keeping movement flowing with purpose.
Creative Spine Corrector – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
In this workshop, you’ll learn how to transform your Spine Corrector into one of the most useful piece of apparatus in your studio! You will learn how to do and teach an entire flowing workout/session on the Spine Corrector as well as how to use just a handful of exercises to enhance a full workout. With over 40 exercises, there’s a lot to work on and discover. You will also learn how to organize the exercises, how to position the clients on the apparatus and where to be to spot and cue the exercises as the teacher. It’s surprising how special and important you’ll find Spine Corrector.
Sunday, March 25
Bio-Mechanics: How Our Bodies Really Work and How to Cue That Reality – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
While your physical intuition is an important asset in teaching Pilates, intuition is not enough. To sincerely take care of your clients, you must know the truth of how the body works. Cue the reality, not the myths or mistakes. Being a confident teacher depends on it…demands it. We’ll work to understand the bio-mechanics surrounding the pelvis, spine, shoulder girdle and how to apply this information to your teaching. Knowing and understanding is the only way.
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Exercises on the Apparatus – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Contact Melania McLaughlin at Linea Pilates at melania.mclaughlin@gmail.com for more information and registration www.lineapilates.net
Saturday, May 19 – New York, NY – Real Pilates – 3-6m
3PMA CECs (pending)
The Small Ball is not for Small Minds! – The small ball can be a mindless prop…or you can make it something sensational! An incredible tool to train yourself and your clients. It can resemble the magic circle, the small barrel, a teacher’s hands and more. It’s more than a silly prop…it’s a necessary tool that will engage your clients muscles and mind!
Registration through www.realpilatesnyc.com or call 212.625.0777
June 2 – New York, NY – re:AB (more information to follow)
July 13-15 in San Francisco, CA – Pilates on Tour –
Saturday, July 14 -
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Apparatus on the Apparatus – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Sunday, July 15 -
Morning Mat Class – 1 hr
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information
September in Sao Paolo, BRAZIL – Much information to come.
September 14-16 in Boston, MA – Pilates on Tour -
Saturday, September 15
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Exercises on the Apparatus – 3hrs -
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information
And there will be many more workshops where we can work together…I’ll keep you informed as they all become solidified! If you’d like to be included on my newsletter to get monthly information, subscribe to this blog and/or e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
Workshops in Your Studio:
If you are interested in my teaching workshops and/or semi-private sessions for your teachers at your studio, please contact me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com I’ll be thrilled to put together a program with you for your needs!
While my vocabulary is classical Pilates, the principles behind my teaching and workshops apply to every style of Pilates.
We have countless topics to play with within technique workshops of classical Pilates and teaching skills workshop that apply to all!
*******
Sessions:
If you’re in NYC and want a Pilates session e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
And I’m Westchester, NY on Thursdays.
Workshops:
If you’d like a workshop and/or semi-privates at your studio, e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com I travel all over the world and would be thrilled to come to you!
Consultation:
If you’d like to set up a meeting on the phone or in person to ask questions about teaching or building/maintaining your business, e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
Enjoy!- Shari
Join Me: Workshops Near You! NY, LA, London, Geneva, San Francisco, Sao Paolo, Boston…
Join Me!
Before I post the next article…I’d like to invite you to these workshops and sessions. Perhaps I’ll be somewhere near you and we can work together. This is a chance not only to work on the material that’s scheduled in the workshop, but also on what you’ve read in the articles/posts on this blog…and more.
Here’s what’s set, at the moment (As of January 28, 2012). There will be more posted soon…but I won’t post before I have full information, of course!
2012 Workshops are in the midst of being set and scheduled, but it looks like we can count on these to begin with:
See full details below for:
Jan. 29 – Mamaroneck, NY
Feb. 3&4 – Los Angeles, CA
Feb. 26 – Rhinebeck, NY
March 17, 18, 19, 20 – London, ENGLAND
March 24&25 – Geneva, SWITZERLAND
July 14&15 – San Francisco, CA
September – Sao Paolo, BRAZIL
September 15 – Boston, MA
(and more to follow!)
January 29, 2012 at Fiore Pilates – Mamaroneck, NY (Westchester…just north of NYC)
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises - 11:30a-2:30p – $120
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Mysterious Aches and Pains - 2:45p-4:45p – $80
2PMA CECs
Even your normal, healthy clients still have weird aches and pains. Some that come and go and some that are chronic. In this vibrant workshop, we’ll discover the roots of and tips for managing those odd issues like clicking hips, crunchy knees, hyper-extended elbows and knees, pain in wrists, S.I. joint trouble, sciatica, frozen shoulder, migraine headaches, vertigo and so many more! Bring with you your questions about normal physical issues that are seeming mysteries. It’s time you got the answers you seek! Let’s answer them all!
For registration and more information, contact Fiore Pilates at info@FiorePilatesOnLine.com or call 914-381-3201
February 3 & 4 – SoCal/Los Angeles, CA
Friday, February 3
Private and Semi-Private Sessions in Los Angeles
E-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop to schedule. If you have friends you specifically want to do a semi with…let’s set that up!
$110/Private, $65/duet, $50/trio and beyond
Saturday, February 4
Workshops in Long Beach at Axis Pilates and Gyrotonic (Karen Washburn’s studio!)
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Exercises on the Apparatus – 10a-1p – $120
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Mysterious Aches and Pains – 2p-4p – $80
2PMA CECs
Even your normal, healthy clients still have weird aches and pains. Some that come and go and some that are chronic. In this vibrant workshop, we’ll discover the roots of and tips for managing those odd issues like clicking hips, crunchy knees, hyper-extended elbows and knees, pain in wrists, S.I. joint trouble, sciatica, frozen shoulder, migraine headaches, vertigo and so many more! Bring with you your questions about normal physical issues that are seeming mysteries. It’s time you got the answers you seek! Let’s answer them all!
To register for the workshops or session, contact me (Shari) at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
February 26 – Rhinebeck, NY
Bio-Mechanics: How Our Bodies Really Work and How to Cue That Reality - 6hrs
6PMA CECs
While your physical intuition is an important asset in teaching Pilates, intuition is not enough. To sincerely take care of your clients, you must know the truth of how the body works. Cue the reality, not the myths or mistakes. Being a confident teacher depends on it…demands it. We’ll work to understand the bio-mechanics surrounding the pelvis, spine, shoulder girdle and how to apply this information to your teaching. Knowing and understanding is the only way.
Contact Elaine Ewing at elaine@RhinebeckPilates.com or go towww.RhinebeckPilates.com for more information
March 17-20 at Pi Studios – London, ENGLAND
March 17th Saturday
9am to 9.45 am – Mat Workout
10am to 1pm – Great Groups and Sensational Semis
1pm to 2pm- LUNCH
2pm to 5pm – The Shoulder Girdle
March 18th Sunday
9am to 10am – Joseph Pilates. Retrospective and Perspective.
10am to 12pm – Teaching Tower Classes.
12pm to 1pm – LUNCH
1pm to 5pm – Flow and Rhythm and Opposition making the session a workout at any level.
Monday 19th semi private or private workout day
10am 11am 12pm 1pm
Tuesday 20th semi private or private workout day
10am 11am 12pm 1pm
SP & PRIVATES PRICING
Semi private £40
Private £90
Please let us know and we will book you in accordingly.
WORKSHOP PRICING
Mat Workout £15
Great Groups and Sensational Semis £150
The Shoulder Girdle £150
Joseph Pilates. Retrospective and Perspective. £50
Teaching Tower Classes £100
Flow and Rhythm and Opposition making the session a workout at any level £200
FULL DAY DISCOUNTS – IF BOUGHT BEFORE FEB 19TH 2012
Saturday 17th only: £280
Sunday 18th only: £325
All Workshops and Mat Class £550.
WORKSHOPS
Great Groups and Sensational Semi’s – 3 hours
3PMA CECs
Group classes and Semi-Privates are a reality in modern day Pilates, but were you ever really trained on how to make them successful? Shari will teach you the guidelines, tools and techniques to easily teach flowing, fun and fantastic Groups and Semi-Privates Sessions on all Apparatus. Learn to mix up what you are teaching to add variety, and also how to work with multiple levels of clients at one time so they can grow individually. Be ready to learn and practice these skills in this dynamic workshop.
The Shoulder Girdle - 3 hours
3PMA CECs
The Shoulder Girdle is a complex system. When I first started teaching, all I knew was “pull your wings down” and “crack a walnut”. The more I study biomechanics, the more I know there is very little down and no cracking. It’s a delicate balance of bone, muscles, ligaments and tendons… and constant reassessing. Dynamic stability is what we are looking for. Let’s spend time studying where we’re going with the shoulder girdle and how to get there in Pilates. We’ll take time with the anatomy and biomechanics, Pilates exercises, common aliments and all of your questions. Take a moment to review what you already know before the workshop… then we can grow from there.
Joseph Pilates. Retrospective and Perspective – 1 hour
This is one of the most important workshops of the weekend.
1PMA CEC
If you call yourself a Pilates teacher then it is essential you know and can talk about Mr. Pilates. The more you know about Pilates the man where he came from, and what he was looking to achieve, the more inspired you will be, and can inspire your clients!
Teaching the Tower Classes – 2 hours
2PMA CECs
“Use what you’ve learned in Sat.’s Great Groups and Serious Semis” to deepen the hands-on skills and creative projects for Sundays Teaching Tower Class”. In your Tower classes, there are people of all levels, many who have never seen or been on the Tower in your class and some who are pretty advanced, as well. How do you create a class that takes care of them all? Let’s take the time to learn how to create a really safe, strong and challenging classes on the Tower. The are special guidelines and progressions you can follow and great ways to make a fantastic class for everyone… including you as a teacher! Shake up your classes, learn new and exciting variations and progressions to challenge both physically and mentally clients of all levels.
Flow, Rhythm and Oppostion – Making the session a workout at any level – 4 hours
4PMA CECs
This is the ‘giant’ in workshop learning. Flow is much more than moving quickly through a list of exercises. Let’s figure out what flow is and how to create it within each move, reception and exercise. Flow has a lot to do with how you think of the workout and how you use your voice to set rhythms, give accents and emphasize certain points of each exercise. It will change your teaching for the better. Opposition; the key to stability. Every exercise must continually lengthen and deepen…..nothing is held tightly or compressed, learn how to cue opposition into the Pilates work out and into your clients bodies.
LOCATION
Pi Studio Battersea, 6 Cotwold Mews, Battersea Square, SW11 3HB
Please contact Marsha for booking and payment on: – Telephone: 020 7585 1114Email: mail@pistudiobattersea.co.uk
March 24 & 25 in Geneva, SWITZERLAND
Saturday, March 24
Advanced Mat Class 10a-10:50a
Wonderful Wunda Chair – 3 hrs
3PMA CECs
The Wunda Chair is often misunderstood and feared. With the new influx of wunda chair classes, truly understanding the chair, its history, exercises and uses is even more important than ever. It’s one of the most versatile and exciting pieces of apparatus in the studio. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to use it as part of or as a complete session always keeping movement flowing with purpose.
Creative Spine Corrector – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
In this workshop, you’ll learn how to transform your Spine Corrector into one of the most useful piece of apparatus in your studio! You will learn how to do and teach an entire flowing workout/session on the Spine Corrector as well as how to use just a handful of exercises to enhance a full workout. With over 40 exercises, there’s a lot to work on and discover. You will also learn how to organize the exercises, how to position the clients on the apparatus and where to be to spot and cue the exercises as the teacher. It’s surprising how special and important you’ll find Spine Corrector.
Sunday, March 25
Bio-Mechanics: How Our Bodies Really Work and How to Cue That Reality – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
While your physical intuition is an important asset in teaching Pilates, intuition is not enough. To sincerely take care of your clients, you must know the truth of how the body works. Cue the reality, not the myths or mistakes. Being a confident teacher depends on it…demands it. We’ll work to understand the bio-mechanics surrounding the pelvis, spine, shoulder girdle and how to apply this information to your teaching. Knowing and understanding is the only way.
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Exercises on the Apparatus – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Contact Melania McLaughlin at Linea Pilates at melania.mclaughlin@gmail.com for more information and registration www.lineapilates.net
July 13-15 in San Francisco, CA – Pilates on Tour –
Saturday, July 14 -
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Apparatus on the Apparatus – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Sunday, July 15 -
Morning Mat Class – 1 hr
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information
September in Sao Paolo, BRAZIL – Much information to come.
September 14-16 in Boston, MA – Pilates on Tour -
Saturday, September 15
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Exercises on the Apparatus – 3hrs -
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information
And there will be many more workshops where we can work together…I’ll keep you informed as they all become solidified! If you’d like to be included on my newsletter to get monthly information, subscribe to this blog and/or e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
Workshops in Your Studio:
If you are interested in my teaching workshops and/or semi-private sessions for your teachers at your studio, please contact me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com I’ll be thrilled to put together a program with you for your needs!
While my vocabulary is classical Pilates, the principles behind my teaching and workshops apply to every style of Pilates.
We have countless topics to play with within technique workshops of classical Pilates and teaching skills workshop that apply to all!
*******
Sessions:
If you’re in NYC and want a Pilates session e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
And I’m Westchester, NY on Thursdays.
Workshops:
If you’d like a workshop and/or semi-privates at your studio, e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com I travel all over the world and would be thrilled to come to you!
Consultation:
If you’d like to set up a meeting on the phone or in person to ask questions about teaching or building/maintaining your business, e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
Enjoy!- Shari
Shoulder Girdle: A Delicate Balance
As the understanding of bio-mechanics progresses our actions and cues must follow. I find it pretty strange that while we as Pilates teachers are learning more and more everyday about the human body, a lot of the cues of stabilization seem to remain in the Dark Age of old-fashioned thought. It is no longer acceptable to teach the actions of stabilization from sheer intuition or from the actions of dance (primarily ballet in the Pilates world) we’ve got to understand how a joint works, what dynamic stabilization of that joint entails, what muscles do what, when and how and then cue those realities.
In my last blog post “Doing Wrong To Get To Right?”, I made a minor mention about the proper way to cue stabilization in the shoulder girdle. Several teachers from around the world have asked me to help and explain which inspired today’s blog post. Please remember that today’s article is not all that there is to say about this, but is intended to pique your interest in studying and learning more. Of course, I go into far more detail my bio-mechanical workshops. This is a good start:
Phrases like “roll your shoulders lightly up and back” or “open your collarbones and breathe between your shoulder blades” are ways to cue the scapulae that adhere to the reality of how your scapulae function most effectively in most circumstances rather than what I had originally learned and I gather that many of you have learned and teach of “anchor your shoulder blades down”, “pull your wings down” or “reach your shoulders away from your ears”. Taking care that the actions we do and teach our clients are really the most positive actions for the greatest functionality of a joint is a big part of what we do as Pilates teachers. Beyond the individual movements of exercises, we “cue” the actions to stabilize joints claiming that these proper actions can be taken into all areas of life beyond the Pilates studio. So…we’d best make sure that we are correct.
Truly well-meaning instructors taught you to teach compression rather than dynamic stability. Compression is absolutely one form of stabilization and strength, but it limits mobility and can de remarkable destructive to joints and all that run through and around them. Though he was far more lengthened than other exercise people of his day, Mr. Pilates taught more compression than dynamic stability in joints, too. He really did want to straighten the spine, create an abdomen people could stand on and make you squeeze your seat until you had dimples in the sides as well as anchor your shoulder blades down. These were the modern actions of stability in Mr. Pilates’ time. Perhaps great if you’re an old-time boxer who is going to be pummeled to the end of his breath. And this very much was the aesthetic of ballet dancers of the time…tucked pelvis for a straight spine (which jams the femoral head into the acetabulum/front of the socket), tight compressed abdomen of lacing the front base of the ribs to the hip points and/or closing the ribs, squeezed buttocks to hide the sides of your thighs to make your look less feminine and more like Balanchine’s waif ideal and then press your shoulder blades away from your ears to make your neck appear longer and more the ballet ideal.
So…here we are with The Shoulder Girdle. Your shoulder girdle is comprised of bones, ligaments, muscles, nerves and blood vessels. The bones that are the girdle are the clavicles (collarbones) and scapulae (shoulder blades). Off the scapulae coming around the lateral side of the girdle is the acromiom process which connects to the clavicle as the acromioclavicular joint. The clavicle connects to the sternum at a small joint called the sternoclavicular joint. Now, the scapulae rest on the thorax/ribcage and form a “functional joint” (meaning that the connection acts sort of like a joint, but it’s not bone to bone) the scapulothoracic joint.
Bones of the Shoulder Girdle
What’s the primary function of the shoulder girdle? To help support and move the humerus to help support and move whatever is in the hand. That’s it and remarkable important, I think you’d agree! The scapulae are moving supportive platforms that connect the arm to the ribcage/torso. Is lateral fossa is called the genius fossa. It’s the socket of the shoulder joint or the glenohumeral joint. The ball is the humoral head/top of the upper arm bone. The clavicle acts as a strut keeping the humerus (upper arm bone) away from the torso (thank you, clavicle). Which basically means that the shoulder girdle is all about the hand…supporting whatever action we ask the hand to do whether it be to push, pull, hold, throw, carry…you see? The range of motion of the shoulder is tremendous! The complexity and openness allows you to move your arm nearly anywhere you want it to go…and if one can’t do it, the other one usually can!
Now, I’m not saying that your arm alone in that ball and socket joint has such a great range of motion. That’s where the entire complex of your shoulder girdle comes into play with something called scapulohumeral rhythm. You see, if your humerus moves, your scapulae are always prepared to move, too. In fact, should you send your brain the signal that you’re going to lift your
arm above shoulder height, your humerus starts to move, primarily by way of the deltoids, but to avoid your humoral head from crashing into the acromial arch at 90 degrees from the torso (which is essential to keeping your ball in socket), your rotator cuff muscles on your scapulae (including some or all of supraspinatus, infraspinatus, teres minor and subscapularis) rotates the numeral head to get up another 30 degrees. Then to go higher than 120 degrees without smacking into the acromial arch, again, the scapulae rotates and lifts up (by means of trapezius and serratus anterior). Yes! When you lift your arm up, your scapulae must lift up too! I know…this is contrary to what you’ve learned. You’ve learned that you must anchor your shoulder blades down when you lift your arm up. But if you try to do that you are actually hindering the very important combination of actions that protect your shoulder joint from damaging compression of humeral head against acromial archway. That compression would of course pit bone against bone, but what else is there? What goes through that archway?
The superior/upper) portion of the shoulder girdle is an important “thruway” of sorts. Blood vessels and nerves that feed nutrients and information to the arms and hands pass through the shoulder girdle at one point or another. When shoulder blades are pressed down, that side part called the acromiom presses down, too, crushing the blood vessels and nerves into the thorax/ribcage. When that happens, of course,there is decreased blood flow and neurological impulses. Pain and dysfunction a become prevalent.
In addition, a lot of people who already have pain in their shoulder joints have compression because muscles create protective patterns of contraction. We’ve got to use our knowledge of how the body works to allow for greater blood flow and neurological impulse flow so the joint can heal and function properly.
Compression and/or anchoring = Bad. So what is good? The main body of your scapular need to float on the posterior surface/back of the ribcage, the acromiom float on the superior surface/top of the ribcage allowing dynamic stability of the glenohumeral/shoulder joint to have greatest support and mobility while allowing healthy space in the functional joint of the scapulothoracic joint and. The glenohumeral joint.
What about the clavicles? What do they do? They react to movements of the scapulae. They need to be allowed to equally float and respond as needed as a ballast of sorts and that strut for the humerus…keep that humerus away from the ribcage.
Now, this all means that nothing stays still in this complicated girdle. Correct. Constant reassessment to maintain support and space. A constant regeneration of actions:
-Roll your shoulder blades lightly up and back. Breathe between your shoulder blades.
-Lightly open your collarbones and breathe between your shoulder blades.
Let shoulder blades float like a buoy on the water rather than anchor to the ocean floor. They ride the ribcage like a surfer on a wave. Then the actual ball and socket is most effective and free. Strong and flexible.
It will feel weird to you at first. And you do practice on yourself a lot before you try cueing your clients. Practice by just laying on your back; knees up an feet flat on the mat. Reach your arms straight up to the ceiling, parallel to each other, shoulder width apart. Draw your arm bones and shoulder blades off the mat, reaching higher to the ceiling (scapular protraction). Now, take a moment to make a strong, but supple abdominal connection all the way into your upper abdominals that connect into your lower ribs and breathe into your back ribs. With your ribcage supply stable, lightly draw your shoulder blades against the mat (retraction to neutral) and allow your humeral head to settle into the glenoid fossa (ball sit into socket). Your shoulder blades will be light on the mat, but strong in your back. Take care not to poke or force your shoulder blades back. You’ll know that you are forcing when you see that your arms are opening wider out to the side and when you feel that your ribcage and mid-thoracic spine are no longer stable. We’re looking for light on the mat, strong on your back with a stable ribcage, spine and pelvis (stable torso)…dynamic stability. The shoulder girdle must move independently of the thorax.
Then you work to apply this action of stability with challenges like modified versions of breathing, eventually arm springs, chest expansion, etc., etc. apply it to the wall, too.
This is where you start…a beginning.
What muscles do the work here? There is a delicate balance of muscles to keep the shoulder blade on the back and arm in the shoulder. Shoulder Blade on the Back: The middle Trapezius and Rhomboids work in equal opposition to the Serratus Anterior to maintain this dynamic stability. Of course, Levator Scapulae, Upper Trapezius, Lower Trapezius need to balance each other, too…but it’s the active balance of neither protraction nor retraction that happens primarily between mid-trapezius and rhomboids against serratus anterior. Arm in the Shoulder: The Rotator Cuff muscles keep the humeral head into the glenoid fossa (ball into socket). Those muscles: Supraspinatus, Infraspinatus, Teres Minor (those three are on the posterior/back of the Shoulder Blade) and Subscapularis (on the anterior/front of the Shoulder Blade). They quite literally suck the ball into the socket against the labrum (cushion-like ligament-like structure that lines the rim of the glenoid fossa). They also rotate the humerus…as their collective name states.
Posterior Rotator Cuff Muscles
Now, do you ever “pull your shoulder blades down”? When arms are overhead or even just above shoulder-level, pushing upwards, one might lightly draw the shoulder blades down in equal opposition to the action and force upwards. Equally and opposite and, again only when force of arms are upwards and only if necessary. It’s not usually necessary especially when you’ve been working the dynamic stability as I’ve shared with you here. When would you consider this in our common exercises?
Reformer: Long Stretch Series. Equal and opposite effort, only. Snake/Twist. Again…equal and opposite. Other exercises like those where the upper arm bone goes above the level of the shoulder girdle and there is pressure pushing/reaching against something.
Cadillac: Push Through (when reaching the bar either up to the top of the cadillac or towards the feet), Teaser Push Through (also when extending the arms either to the top of the Cadillac when up in the Teaser or to the back wall when laying down on the mat). You’ll find other exercise…but it is equal and opposite work against what is being pushed/reached and only when the upper arm bone is above the level of the shoulders.
So…an overview:
The Shoulder Girdle is made up of the scapulae (with the acromium coming around the side) and clavicles. They balance on the ribcage with a little true joint at the sternum and the functional joint of the scapulae on the ribcage.
The Shoulder Joint is really the ball and socket. It has a tremendous amount of rotation and motion because it is such a shallow ball and socket and because of scapulohumeral rhythm…the movement of the scapulae to move the humerus more!
Shoulder blades and collarbones (scapulae and clavicles) are meant to balance or bob on the thorax (torso) rather than anchor. Anchoring creates compression and lack of movement as well as tremendous dysfunction. Our aim in Pilates is to have greater function with dynamic stability rather than compression.
Cue your clients to roll their shoulders lightly up and back and to breathe between their shoulder blades. Lightly open your collar bones and breath between your shoulder blades.
Avoid anchoring shoulder blades or pulling wings down. Depression of the scapulae is just that…depressing. At least the lack of strength, ultimate ailments and tremendous misunderstanding will ultimately be depressing all around.
Now, this is just a beginning. There is much more to discuss about the shoulder girdle and it’s functions and what does what: ligaments, nerves, progression of exercises and so very much more! Please, oh, please study more and ask me many questions (put comments here in the blog so others can benefit from your questions…there are no silly questions. I am certain of that.). I present a shoulder girdle workshop all around the world…join me or I’ll come to you…once you understand and experience the true actions of your body, it’s so much easier to teach and do!
2012 Workshops are in the midst of being set and scheduled, but it looks like we can count on these to begin with:
See full details below for:
Jan. 29 – Mamaroneck, NY
Feb. 3&4 – Los Angeles, CA
Feb. 26 – Rhinebeck, NY
March 17, 18, 19, 20 – London, ENGLAND
March 24&25 – Geneva, SWITZERLAND
July 14&15 – San Francisco, CA
September – Sao Paolo, BRAZIL
September 15 – Boston, MA
(and more to follow!)
January 29, 2012 at Fiore Pilates – Mamaroneck, NY (Westchester…just north of NYC)
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises - 11:30a-2:30p – $120
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Mysterious Aches and Pains - 2:45p-4:45p – $80
2PMA CECs
Even your normal, healthy clients still have weird aches and pains. Some that come and go and some that are chronic. In this vibrant workshop, we’ll discover the roots of and tips for managing those odd issues like clicking hips, crunchy knees, hyper-extended elbows and knees, pain in wrists, S.I. joint trouble, sciatica, frozen shoulder, migraine headaches, vertigo and so many more! Bring with you your questions about normal physical issues that are seeming mysteries. It’s time you got the answers you seek! Let’s answer them all!
For registration and more information, contact Fiore Pilates at info@FiorePilatesOnLine.com or call 914-381-3201
February 3 & 4 – SoCal/Los Angeles, CA
Friday, February 3
Private and Semi-Private Sessions in Los Angeles
E-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop to schedule. If you have friends you specifically want to do a semi with…let’s set that up!
$110/Private, $65/duet, $50/trio and beyond
Saturday, February 4
Workshops in Long Beach at Axis Pilates and Gyrotonic (Karen Washburn’s studio!)
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Exercises on the Apparatus – 10a-1p – $120
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Mysterious Aches and Pains – 2p-4p – $80
2PMA CECs
Even your normal, healthy clients still have weird aches and pains. Some that come and go and some that are chronic. In this vibrant workshop, we’ll discover the roots of and tips for managing those odd issues like clicking hips, crunchy knees, hyper-extended elbows and knees, pain in wrists, S.I. joint trouble, sciatica, frozen shoulder, migraine headaches, vertigo and so many more! Bring with you your questions about normal physical issues that are seeming mysteries. It’s time you got the answers you seek! Let’s answer them all!
To register for the workshops or session, contact me (Shari) at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
February 26 – Rhinebeck, NY
Bio-Mechanics: How Our Bodies Really Work and How to Cue That Reality - 6hrs
6PMA CECs
While your physical intuition is an important asset in teaching Pilates, intuition is not enough. To sincerely take care of your clients, you must know the truth of how the body works. Cue the reality, not the myths or mistakes. Being a confident teacher depends on it…demands it. We’ll work to understand the bio-mechanics surrounding the pelvis, spine, shoulder girdle and how to apply this information to your teaching. Knowing and understanding is the only way.
Contact Elaine Ewing at elaine@RhinebeckPilates.com or go to www.RhinebeckPilates.com for more information
March 17-20 at Pi Studios – London, ENGLAND
March 17th Saturday
9am to 9.45 am – Mat Workout
10am to 1pm – Great Groups and Sensational Semis
1pm to 2pm- LUNCH
2pm to 5pm – The Shoulder Girdle
March 18th Sunday
9am to 10am – Joseph Pilates. Retrospective and Perspective.
10am to 12pm – Teaching Tower Classes.
12pm to 1pm – LUNCH
1pm to 5pm – Flow and Rhythm and Opposition making the session a workout at any level.
Monday 19th semi private or private workout day
10am 11am 12pm 1pm
Tuesday 20th semi private or private workout day
10am 11am 12pm 1pm
SP & PRIVATES PRICING
Semi private £40
Private £90
Please let us know and we will book you in accordingly.
WORKSHOP PRICING
Mat Workout £15
Great Groups and Sensational Semis £150
The Shoulder Girdle £150
Joseph Pilates. Retrospective and Perspective. £50
Teaching Tower Classes £100
Flow and Rhythm and Opposition making the session a workout at any level £200
FULL DAY DISCOUNTS – IF BOUGHT BEFORE FEB 19TH 2012
Saturday 17th only: £280
Sunday 18th only: £325
All Workshops and Mat Class £550.
WORKSHOPS
Great Groups and Sensational Semi’s – 3 hours
3PMA CECs
Group classes and Semi-Privates are a reality in modern day Pilates, but were you ever really trained on how to make them successful? Shari will teach you the guidelines, tools and techniques to easily teach flowing, fun and fantastic Groups and Semi-Privates Sessions on all Apparatus. Learn to mix up what you are teaching to add variety, and also how to work with multiple levels of clients at one time so they can grow individually. Be ready to learn and practice these skills in this dynamic workshop.
The Shoulder Girdle - 3 hours
3PMA CECs
The Shoulder Girdle is a complex system. When I first started teaching, all I knew was “pull your wings down” and “crack a walnut”. The more I study biomechanics, the more I know there is very little down and no cracking. It’s a delicate balance of bone, muscles, ligaments and tendons… and constant reassessing. Dynamic stability is what we are looking for. Let’s spend time studying where we’re going with the shoulder girdle and how to get there in Pilates. We’ll take time with the anatomy and biomechanics, Pilates exercises, common aliments and all of your questions. Take a moment to review what you already know before the workshop… then we can grow from there.
Joseph Pilates. Retrospective and Perspective – 1 hour
This is one of the most important workshops of the weekend.
1PMA CEC
If you call yourself a Pilates teacher then it is essential you know and can talk about Mr. Pilates. The more you know about Pilates the man where he came from, and what he was looking to achieve, the more inspired you will be, and can inspire your clients!
Teaching the Tower Classes – 2 hours
2PMA CECs
“Use what you’ve learned in Sat.’s Great Groups and Serious Semis” to deepen the hands-on skills and creative projects for Sundays Teaching Tower Class”. In your Tower classes, there are people of all levels, many who have never seen or been on the Tower in your class and some who are pretty advanced, as well. How do you create a class that takes care of them all? Let’s take the time to learn how to create a really safe, strong and challenging classes on the Tower. The are special guidelines and progressions you can follow and great ways to make a fantastic class for everyone… including you as a teacher! Shake up your classes, learn new and exciting variations and progressions to challenge both physically and mentally clients of all levels.
Flow, Rhythm and Oppostion – Making the session a workout at any level – 4 hours
4PMA CECs
This is the ‘giant’ in workshop learning. Flow is much more than moving quickly through a list of exercises. Let’s figure out what flow is and how to create it within each move, reception and exercise. Flow has a lot to do with how you think of the workout and how you use your voice to set rhythms, give accents and emphasize certain points of each exercise. It will change your teaching for the better. Opposition; the key to stability. Every exercise must continually lengthen and deepen…..nothing is held tightly or compressed, learn how to cue opposition into the Pilates work out and into your clients bodies.
LOCATION
Pi Studio Battersea, 6 Cotwold Mews, Battersea Square, SW11 3HB
Please contact Marsha for booking and payment on: – Telephone: 020 7585 1114 Email: mail@pistudiobattersea.co.uk
March 24 & 25 in Geneva, SWITZERLAND
Saturday, March 24
Advanced Mat Class 10a-10:50a
Wonderful Wunda Chair – 3 hrs
3PMA CECs
The Wunda Chair is often misunderstood and feared. With the new influx of wunda chair classes, truly understanding the chair, its history, exercises and uses is even more important than ever. It’s one of the most versatile and exciting pieces of apparatus in the studio. In this workshop, you’ll learn how to use it as part of or as a complete session always keeping movement flowing with purpose.
Creative Spine Corrector – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
In this workshop, you’ll learn how to transform your Spine Corrector into one of the most useful piece of apparatus in your studio! You will learn how to do and teach an entire flowing workout/session on the Spine Corrector as well as how to use just a handful of exercises to enhance a full workout. With over 40 exercises, there’s a lot to work on and discover. You will also learn how to organize the exercises, how to position the clients on the apparatus and where to be to spot and cue the exercises as the teacher. It’s surprising how special and important you’ll find Spine Corrector.
Sunday, March 25
Bio-Mechanics: How Our Bodies Really Work and How to Cue That Reality – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
While your physical intuition is an important asset in teaching Pilates, intuition is not enough. To sincerely take care of your clients, you must know the truth of how the body works. Cue the reality, not the myths or mistakes. Being a confident teacher depends on it…demands it. We’ll work to understand the bio-mechanics surrounding the pelvis, spine, shoulder girdle and how to apply this information to your teaching. Knowing and understanding is the only way.
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Exercises on the Apparatus – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Contact Melania McLaughlin at Linea Pilates at melania.mclaughlin@gmail.com for more information and registration www.lineapilates.net
July 13-15 in San Francisco, CA – Pilates on Tour –
Saturday, July 14 -
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Apparatus on the Apparatus – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Sunday, July 15 -
Morning Mat Class – 1 hr
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises - 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information
September in Sao Paolo, BRAZIL – Much information to come.
September 14-16 in Boston, MA – Pilates on Tour -
Saturday, September 15
Morning Mat Class – 1hr
Beyond The Everyday: Archival Exercises on the Apparatus – 3hrs -
3PMA CECs
Joseph Pilates created somewhere between 500-600 exercises. You know some of the repertoire…it’s time to learn more. In this workshop, you will learn rarely seen and immediately useful exercises on multiple apparatus (Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Standing Arm Springs) all created by Joseph Pilates. You’ll leave feeling confident in the purpose and technique of teach exercise, have time to do exercises, practice teaching and ask questions. You’ll walk away with your own special archive of exercises for your strong intermediate clients…and yourself!
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises – 3hrs
3PMA CECs
There are many more versions of Mr. Pilates’ exercises than we see today. Variations, modification, combinations of multiple exercises in one! Fascinating, challenging and all the rest! These versions should not just live in the memories of those of us who had access to them years ago. They ought to be living, breathing exercises for those who need the modification or challenge! Experience this material, then teach it so we never lose track of these great exercises!
Click HERE for more information
And there will be many more workshops where we can work together…I’ll keep you informed as they all become solidified! If you’d like to be included on my newsletter to get monthly information, subscribe to this blog and/or e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
Workshops in Your Studio:
If you are interested in my teaching workshops and/or semi-private sessions for your teachers at your studio, please contact me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com I’ll be thrilled to put together a program with you for your needs!
While my vocabulary is classical Pilates, the principles behind my teaching and workshops apply to every style of Pilates.
We have countless topics to play with within technique workshops of classical Pilates and teaching skills workshop that apply to all!
*******
Sessions:
If you’re in NYC and want a Pilates session e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
And I’m Westchester, NY on Thursdays.
Workshops:
If you’d like a workshop and/or semi-privates at your studio, e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com I travel all over the world and would be thrilled to come to you!
Consultation:
If you’d like to set up a meeting on the phone or in person to ask questions about teaching or building/maintaining your business, e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
Enjoy!- Shari
Doing Wrong To Get To Right?
Many teachers ask me if it’s OK to teach a “wrong” action for a while just to get the “picture” or shape of an exercise and then correct the action later on. I always say “No. It’s OK to teach incorrect actions just to get the shape of an exercise”. Here’s why:
I totally understand that we want our clients to feel accomplished. We want our clients to move forward, advance, get better…advance. But what is our judgement of advancement? What is true accomplishment?
We’ve got to teach correct actions correctly the first time. I learned that statement many years ago when I was training to be a teacher trainer with Bob Liekens. I’ll say it again: Teach Correct Actions Correctly The First Time. It makes sense on a just the most straightforward level, but even more so when you study and understand how people learn.
Whatever we learn the first time…is what is imprinted in us neurologically. Literally. Neurological connections and pathways are set by what you learn the first time. Unlearning is impossible. Relearning is challenging, but possible. It’s such a challenge that many don’t or can’t do it. And this isn’t just with Pilates…it’s with everything. Everything.
Wouldn’t it be better to learn the correct thing the first time. The best thing the first time? That doesn’t mean that your client is going to be able to do it “perfectly” (ever), but at least the imprint will be one that is positive.
Try unlearning squeezing your seat (or glutes or butt) or narrowing your sit bones. It’s an incorrect action action (I apologize to those who do this and don’t mean to disparage or alienate you…we can discuss this in another blog and in person in workshops. I am certain I can share with you why this is a troubled action). The challenge of disengaging your glutes is formiddable. Wouldn’t it be great if you had never been taught to do this in the first place?
The two particular instances where teachers have asked if it’s OK to do “wrong” to eventually get to “right” have been this:
1 – In doing a thigh stretch of sorts, perhaps the third part of the Front Splits on the reformer when one knee is down on the carriage mat with foot against the shoulder block and the other knee is up with foot on the footbar. Some esteemed colleagues asked if it’s OK to push the hips/pelvis forward to get the stretch by squeezing the glutes. I said “Nope. Because then the stretch is missed. It needs to come from lifting the abdominals and lumbar spine to rotate the pelvis more into a neutral position relative to the kneeling leg, thusly engaging the hamstring of that leg, too. If you take the cheap way of the quick fix by squeezing the glutes, the actions that will result in a healthy open stretch won’t occur.” They said that they would get to the abdominals, spine and hamstrings eventually, but that they just want to give this exercise, now. I said something like “then cue the correct actions the first time and even though the image won’t be ideal, the action of the stretch will be more ideal. It will take a long time to unlearn the quickie version that you’ve taught.”
Does that make sense to you? You see…if this person can’t do the correct actions even in the slightest bit, then hold off from that particular exercise and find another way to stretch the quads and hip flexors until the client can actually achieve the exercise on a basic level with correct actions. No quick-fixes or fast-lanes.
2 – Another question from another dear colleague was about shoulder blades. This teacher was learning from me how shoulder blades are meant to roll up and back on the rib cage rather than anchor them down away from the ears. (Yes, if you cue pull or anchor your shoulders down…we have a future conversation to look forward to… It is a bio-mechanically incorrect action for most of Pilates and life. Again, not meant to disparage, I look forward to sharing the actions of the shoulder girdle.) He said that it’s just easier to teach the anchor, for arm springs, say. He asked something like “can’t I just teach ‘anchor’ for a while and then adjust the shoulders later?” Of course, I said something to extent of “No. You need to teach the correct action correctly the very first time. You’ll do your client a disservice if you just go for easy. It will take a very long time to unlearn the easy and wrong action in the effort to get the difficult and correct action.”
I really understand the desire to go for easy. I do! However, stabilizing a joint is nothing akin to easy. Alas. It takes time, opposition, delicate balance and patience. Patience and persistence. We’ve got to be strong of will, Teachers. We must be patient beyond normal patience of others.
Now, is it ever OK to do an incorrect action in the effort to teach a correct one? Well..in one instance, yes. HOORAY! While you are teaching a correct action, you can sometimes have your client do a bit of comparison to show or feel for themselves “right” and “wrong”. I often do this in Pull Straps I. I have them slide their arms/shoulders off their back and on their back to feel what it feels like the have the scapulae be on the side of the body (incorrect) and on the back of the body (correct). Or when I teach the Twist Prep on the Wunda Chair. It’s tricky to keep the length in the side-bodies. Clients want to just spring up to the ceiling letting the spring and pedal do the job. I very often use that as a tool and say “let the spring spring you up…get very, very high”. They do this and I say “Excellent! That is exactly the way we don’t want to do this exercise!” (usually we all giggle here) ”Now, try this…resist the desire to spring up and maintain the length in your sides as rise against the pull of the spring”. So, sometimes doing things incorrectly for effect and as a teaching tool can be great! But…it has to be just that: teaching tool to immediately get to the correct actions.
Now, I must clarify…just because you teach an exercise to a client does not mean that your client has to be able to achieve it in its ideal form or even do it well. It takes time to do an exercise well. It takes practice. Still, we have to work hard to pick the proper exercises for our clients that will either be the tool or challenge that they need and then teach what to do and what not to do appropriately so that they can make progress over time. Is it OK if the client in my first example of that thigh stretch can’t achieve a neutral pelvis relative to the supporting leg? Of course! But that client is trying and trying from the correct muscles with the correct actions. Is it OK if the client in the second example cannot find her shoulders on her back during arm springs 100% of the time. Absolutely! The action of trying is what counts. The correct actions. Ultimately both of these clients will fully be able to achieve them because of their continuing efforts in the right direction.
All in all, of course, it means that we need to work extra hard. We have to make sure our clients are ready for the exercises that we are asking them to do and teach them extremely well. Hold back from wanting to make “pretty pictures” or make things easy for our clients. Our clients need appropriate challenges and opportunities to grow and develop. Opportunities for achievement and true success.
Thank you, as always, for reading this blog. I hope that you will take a moment to consider it all and then drop me a line. Please comment below and let me know how it’s going for you. Also, ask me questions, request future blog posts and more! Here’s information on upcoming workshops and sessions with me all over the world for 2012:
2012 Workshops are in the midst of being set and scheduled, but it looks like we can count on these to begin with:
January 29, 2012 at Fiore Pilates – Mamaroneck, NY (Westchester…just north of NYC)
Archival Mat and Standing Exercises - 11:30a-2:30p – $120
3PMA CECs
Mysterious Aches and Pains - 2:45p-4:45p – $80
2PMA CECs
For registration and more information, contact Fiore Pilates at info@FiorePilatesOnLine.com or call 914-381-3201
March 17-20 at Pi Studios – London, ENGLAND
More information to follow on workshops with PMA CECs (Saturday and Sunday) and sessions (Monday and Tuesday). If you’d like to be notified when information is available and registration is open, please e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com and/or reach out to Pi Studios at mail@pistudiobattersea.co.uk
March 24 & 25 in Geneva, SWITZERLAND
More information to follow on workshops with PMA CECs and sessions. If you’d like to be notified when information is available and registration is open, please e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com and I will gladly get you all that you need.
July 13-15 in San Francisco, CA – Pilates on Tour – Much information to come.
September in Sao Paolo, BRAZIL – Much information to come.
September 14-16 in Boston, MA – Pilates on Tour - Much information to come.
And there will be many more workshops where we can work together…I’ll keep you informed as they all become solidified! If you’d like to be included on my newsletter to get monthly information, subscribe to this blog and/or e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
Workshops in Your Studio:
If you are interested in my teaching workshops and/or semi-private sessions for your teachers at your studio, please contact me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com I’ll be thrilled to put together a program with you for your needs!
While my vocabulary is classical Pilates, the principles behind my teaching and workshops apply to every style of Pilates.
We have countless topics to play with within technique workshops of classical Pilates and teaching skills workshop that apply to all!
*******
Sessions:
If you’re in NYC and want a Pilates session e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
And I’m Westchester, NY on Thursdays.
Workshops:
If you’d like a workshop and/or semi-privates at your studio, e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com I travel all over the world and would be thrilled to come to you!
Consultation:
If you’d like to set up a meeting on the phone or in person to ask questions about teaching or building/maintaining your business, e-mail me at info@TheVerticalWorkshop.com
Enjoy!- Shari
