Are You a Pilates Perfectionist?

I can’t help but notice how hard so many of us are on ourselves, particularly when it comes to our Pilates. I’ve taught all types of fitness classes and personal training sessions, and I find that those who practice Pilates seem to be the most critical of their technique and form. Are you a Pilates perfectionist, too? If so, I have a perspective that will help you relax your expectations, and find a whole new side to Pilates. 

The Design of Pilates

When Joseph Pilates designed his exercises, he called the method “Contrology”. Then and now, the goal of practicing Pilates is to learn to control the body and correct imbalances through movement (among the many other benefits!). Perhaps, then, Pilates’ definition is why we become so determined to perfect the exercises. The exercises don’t change, so we want to execute them to the best of our ability. 

I love when my clients push themselves to do their best, but not when it takes the form of self-criticism. Feeling bad about your practice and thinking you should be “better” at Pilates than you are defeats the point of taking care of yourself. If this sounds familiar to you, try to reframe the way you approach Pilates, and remember why we call it a “practice” in the first place. We aren’t striving to be perfect, but rather to make use of Pilates to support our bodies. 

Your Practice is Yours

Even though we’re all going through the same exercises, each person’s practice is completely their own. Yours may even vary from day to day! Think back to when you were a beginner, and how far you have come. We all learn at different paces, and have our own strengths and weaknesses. Just think of my client Mike, who went from recovering from hip surgery to hiking 15km, thanks to Pilates. In the beginning, he had to skip or modify a lot of exercises. Eventually, though, he worked up to doing the full set of exercises on the reformer. Is his Pilates perfect? Probably not. But that’s not why he practices it. 

I want you to strive to do better, dig deeper, and understand your body through your Pilates practice. Yes, you’ll get better at executing the movements over time, but that’s not all. You’ll discover more awareness, mobility, flexibility, strength, and connection throughout your body – as well as new ways to challenge your body and mind. 

From Pilates Perfectionist to Pilates Progress

If you’ve been too hard on yourself with Pilates, let’s replace the word “perfection” with “progress.” Rather than aiming for perfect form or technique, try to progress your practice instead. Here are a few ways you can add challenge and depth to your Pilates practice:

• Learn the order of the exercises.
• Learn the transitions between the exercises.
• Work to flow.
• Not too fast and not too slow.
• Find a deeper connection.  
• Find a two way stretch.
• Connect to the equipment a little bit more.
• Become more aware of what all parts of your body are doing at the same time.  
• Go a little further with your range.
• Try adjusting the way you hold your body in an exercise and notice what you feel.
• Work to become autonomous with your Pilates practice. (You can still come see me!)

There is always room for learning and growth in your Pilates practice. So be open to making mini-changes to challenge yourself, and remember to show yourself kindness in the process.