Greetings Friend,
We've been enjoying seeing so many new Guests visiting the Studio and thought it was time to re-visit a blog post from way back (post originally published August, 2022)!
This post has now been updated twice so it's worth a re-read.
The Studio has been open for more than two months and we've started hearing a good question from Guests in our Beginner's Reformer Classes;
"How do I know when I'm ready to move up to a more difficult class?"
The short answer is; whenever you'd like!
The longer answer is, of course, a bit more involved. There are many factors in play when deciding which class(es) to take on any given week and we need look no further than the meshing of your personal schedule and TerraLuna's class schedule to see one of the reasons why. For the purposes of discussion however, let's assume that your schedule allows you to take either a Beginner's Reformer class or a Reformer class class with equal degrees of convenience.
Here are the main differences between a Beginner's Reformer class and all other classes (aside from StretchLates):
Pace of the class. Beginner's Reformer moves overall more slowly with more time to rest or stretch between activities.
We generally do fewer repetitions of activities (4-6 sets) in Beginner's class than in other classes (5-8 sets).
We tend to do single activities in Beginner's class concentrating on the basics of each movement. As we say: Pilates looks simple, but it is not easy! Developing muscle memory of correct technique is so important. We want to take the time in Beginner's classes to build a good foundation of movement.
Beginner's Reformer is designed to build skills, core strength, and stamina so that Guests can participate in other classes with:
An understanding of basic Pilates principals like posture and breathing.
Strength and stability to safely participate in more challenging movements.
Ability to confidently flow from activity A into activity B and continue into a combination of A + B together.
A basic catalog of movements. We need knowledge of the fundamental movements (for example tabletop, bridge, or Y arms) so that we can learn new and more challenging movements on the fly.
In essence, there are two main skills that Guests need to be safe and and proficient with before moving into other classes:
C-Curve
Planks
The last difference between Beginner's Classes and all other classes is self-sufficiency!
Checking/adjusting/setting up your Reformer before class starts.
Confidence manipulating the springs on the Reformer to customize your work.
Able to use props.
Autonomy in modifying movements, opting out of breaks, and personalizing your class experience.
In closing, we want to stress that Beginner's Classes are wonderful! The concept of "moving up" isn't meant to diminish or devalue Beginner's Classes or the Beginner Guest. For some Guests, Beginner's Class is a perfect fit for a variety of reasons and can remain a perfect fit for years! Folks who enjoy the pace, skill set, and atmosphere of the Beginner's Class are always welcomed to participate in Beginner's Classes as long as it fits their needs. There is absolutely no expectation whatsoever that a Guest should or would ever move away from a Beginner's Class!
As always, we are here to discuss your personal needs, goals, and thoughts and to help you make the decisions that work best for you.
Wishing you peace in each day and joy in your body.
Blessings,
Lynelle
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