You Are Always Welcome

I was FEELING REALLY UPSET for a new class member who said to me that she felt bad for “not being good enough” for my Pilates class. It turns out that a teacher in the past told her that she was “putting her off” as she wasn’t good enough. NOOOO!

A comment like that is going to stick in someone’s heart, mind and soul for a very very long time, if not forever. What an awful thing to say to someone in a class - someone who’s shown up and is trying their best.

Firstly, on rare occasions, it may be that a class is too advanced for someone and is unsuitable. This can be discussed tactfully, sensitively and privately, and a mutual decision can be made.

Secondly, in the majority of classes, a good (and nice!) teacher will find ways to help new members modify and adapt and to encourage them that they are SAFE AND WELCOME in the class, and welcome to rest and OPT OUT anytime. It’s totally ok to do that.

If you have ever had an experience like that, on behalf of all fitness instructors out there in the world, I apologise wholeheartedly - it’s not ok. (I like to think these occurrences are rare, but you never know).

My group classes are welcoming, inclusive, not ego based and non threatening. New (and returning) members are welcome and safe, physically and emotionally.

So if you’re thinking of group exercise - go for it.  Getting together and sharing energy with other people is wonderfully uplifting - the social connection is so nice, and the togetherness enhances energy and potential.

And if you don’t like the class, try another.

Keep going until you find your safe space.

Don’t give up.