Answers (8)
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I always suggest to new clients in group settings, to sit in the back. This way you can view other students and feel more relaxed. I know it can feel like a lot to remember all at once(breathing, engaging the abs, coordination), so don't fret it. Remember your a beginner and a month from now you'll be asking yourself, "what was I fretting about?"
Have fun.
Have fun.
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I lead a donation-based mat class series in the parks around Santa Monica. It's great to workout outdoors, especially when the weather is gorgeous :)
I would recommend suggesting that everyone bring a towel to put under their mat - I've found this is super helpful for keeping the mats as clean as possible.
Also, make sure you project your voice so that everyone can hear - sounds dissipates outside. I definitely walk around and provide physical adjustments just as often if not more outside than I do inside, just to make sure everyone gets it.
Also take note of your location - one place I teach happens to mow the law at the same time as my class on some days, which gets distracting and annoying... It's good to scout your location during the time and day you'll be teaching so you get a feel for the goings-on that will be going on during your class.
As with any class, be prepared with modifications for every exercise, and be patient with people who take a little longer to make certain connections. I like to be able to describe each movement in at least 2 different ways to appeal to different learning styles. You'll also have people showing up with injuries they may or may not have told you about or be aware of.
Have fun! Bring an iPod dock or some music, make an upbeat playlist, and joke around with your new outdoor workout buddies. Put the fun, personal touch back in the training :)
I would recommend suggesting that everyone bring a towel to put under their mat - I've found this is super helpful for keeping the mats as clean as possible.
Also, make sure you project your voice so that everyone can hear - sounds dissipates outside. I definitely walk around and provide physical adjustments just as often if not more outside than I do inside, just to make sure everyone gets it.
Also take note of your location - one place I teach happens to mow the law at the same time as my class on some days, which gets distracting and annoying... It's good to scout your location during the time and day you'll be teaching so you get a feel for the goings-on that will be going on during your class.
As with any class, be prepared with modifications for every exercise, and be patient with people who take a little longer to make certain connections. I like to be able to describe each movement in at least 2 different ways to appeal to different learning styles. You'll also have people showing up with injuries they may or may not have told you about or be aware of.
Have fun! Bring an iPod dock or some music, make an upbeat playlist, and joke around with your new outdoor workout buddies. Put the fun, personal touch back in the training :)
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PS> for beginners, especially first-timers, remember that almost right is good enough sometimes. People get discouraged when the teacher picks on them a lot their first time out there. Making 1 or 2 of the 50 million connections we make during a Pilates based movement is 1 or 2 steps closer to getting it perfect the next time :)
Congrats on starting out on your own, and good luck!
Congrats on starting out on your own, and good luck!
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From a legal point of few: Have a liability insurance that covers you out doors and you may have to get a permit and pay a small fee for using a park. Otherwise Kelsey's info is great. Good luck.
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Kelsey and Heike's info is very detailed and I agree. Maybe bring along props like bands or magic circles if you are able to add in another element. Bands are great to help people modify or stretch out tight hamstrings/hips. They can also help with standing arms work or seated rowing. Make sure to have fun, walk around so everyone can hear you and demo if needed. Enjoy!
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The best place to start is to contact the parks and recreation department in your community. Verify and confirm if and what you need to teach an outdoor class. Usually, if it's a free community based class you will get a green light. A fee based class will require jumping through a couple of hoops. The prior is a great self promoting tool and gives back to the community. Tips for teaching in the great outdoors are have an arsenal of supplies for your students to make the experience comfortable: bug spray, disinfectant wipes, tissue, first aid kit, ice packs, bottled water, and sign in sheet with pen. As well as have students sign a general waiver prior to class. Outdoor classes are fun to teach and take!
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I always suggest people wear layers, regardless of the alleged forecast.
Make sure people can hear you! Talking outdoors has a totally different sound system.
Make sure people can hear you! Talking outdoors has a totally different sound system.
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In my experience teaching classes outdoors, make sure you're clear of bees which can be a big distraction. I love being outdoors when it's warm out, people move more expansively and it's great for the spirit as well. If you choose to use music, the portable BOSE system is perfect. It has great power and is light.
