Pilates benefits kids in many ways, from boosting physical fitness to increasing concentration in the classroom. But leading a Pilates class of kids can pose interesting challenges for the Instructor. Kids are less likely to stay still, or to follow detailed instructions, or to understand high-level fitness lingo. So what to do?
We asked Cathy Whitt, a certified STOTT PILATES® Instructor in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to weigh in. Cathy runs Growing Healthy Kids, a program that sees her visit classrooms and parks to teach underprivileged kids Pilates. Here’s what she had to say.
Make it a Game
If you are teaching 5-10 year olds, turn Pilates into a game to keep up interest levels. Instead of Simon Says, try Pilates Says to get kids into poses.
Identify Role Models
For older kids, 12-18, pique interest in Pilates by identifying some popular athletes or sports figures who do Pilates. This age group also has the ability to do real Pilates—they can concentrate and maintain focus in a way that younger kids simply can’t. You may be surprised to find that male students of this age really enjoy Pilates.
Harness the Energy
If you are teaching in a school, you may have large groups of kids—up to 30 or more—and there will be lots of energy. Help direct some of that energy by incorporating cardiovascular exercises into the program, such as running in place, jumping jacks or pretend jump rope. Move the group from standing to sitting poses frequently.
In a classroom setting, you may not have access to mats or props. Develop a routine that can be done standing and focus on balance and back extension. Kids need it from all the sitting and screen time they put in during school hours.
Take it Easy
Remember that kids do not use perfect form, and they like to fall. Don’t be too rigid with them. Let yourself go and let them have fun.
Save the Breath for Last
Working on breathing and educating kids on how to do it properly will help them calm down from the all the exercise and is a nice way to end the class.