How to do quality pilates when you’re on a budget

Given the current economic climate, it is not surprising that people are having to cut back on their pilates lessons. It’s also not surprising that gyms with pilates programs are having to cut back on their programming. So, what can you do to keep in pilates shape and watch your wallet?

You could select a DVD or find a workout online that you like, but the problem with that is you don’t receive any feedback about how you are doing the exercises and with pilates, feedback is paramount!

Instead, find a reputable instructor in your area (see my recent blog about finding a good pilates intructor) and ask he or she to select a Pilates DVD that is appropriate for your fitness level. Then purchase a small package of private lessons with that instructor in order to work on the exercises highlighted int he DVD. Especially if you have an injury or other special condition, it may be really important to make sure that your pilates technique is being evaluated; in some cases, your instructor may suggest that you omit certain exercises that are taught on the DVD.

Over the last several months, some of my students have chosen this option when they didn’t have the financial means to come to the studio every week. This method has also worked well for students that travel alot. In some cases, these students have continued to supplement their training with group classes while others have simply worked at home and then come in once a month to get their routine changed and their technique reassessed.

This solution requires discipline, but it can be an excellent alternative to getting out of shape or losing interest in your workouts when money is tight. Ask your instructor to provide challenges for you to meet and things for you to work on by the next appointment.

Another idea is to look for studios in your area that offer lessons with Pilates apprentices. These are pilates teachers-in-training that have completed all their course hours but have not completed their examination. In many cases, these students will teach you privately at a highly discounted rate, and they are often observed by a seasoned professional. Check out pilates centers in your area that train students to become certified instructors and offer this as an option.

Here is a link to STOTT PILATES Licensing Centers located throughout the world:

http://www.stottpilates.com/education/centers.html

Each of these locations has an Instructor Trainer available. Licensing centers train students to become STOTT PILATES teachers, so these are some of the most elite studios in the industry, and many of them offer discounted lessons with apprentices.

If none of these locations are convenient for you, check out the Instructor Finder search for other certified STOTT PILATES instructors that are near your area at:

http://www.stottpilates.com/finder/infosearch/infocustomerconfirm.lasso

Good luck!