PILATES CUES FOR ALL CLASSES

Please ensure that you are using the correct terminology when cueing your classes that is consistent with our team so our clients get a chance to learn and become familiar with expectation.

Core

The core and abdominals are encouraged to be switched on at all times when working through pilates exercises and even in our Studio 2 classes.  Great cues to encourage this whilst the class is happening are –

“ If you think about needing to go to the toilet, think about the sensation of holding on”

“When you are trying to get that last button done up on a pair of jeans”

“Try to engage your core and pull your belly button downwards towards the carriage or mat”

Breathing

Pilates uses breathing to allow the client to maximise their workout.  The main cue to remember is to inhale to prepare for the exercise and exhale during the harder part of the exercise.  Great cues to encourage this whilst the class is happening are –

“When taking an inhale breath, the ribs should be expanding rather than just your stomach expanding”

“Getting the breathing correct will assist with the correct muscle activation as well as keeping the core activated during the exercise”

“Breathing helps to slow down the movement, think about the breathing on each step of the exercise so that you can get the most out of it”

Spinal Positions

There are two spinal positions that we use in our classes.  The first is a neutral spine which is when the natural curve of the back is maintained during the exercise.  The second is an imprinted spine where we tuck the pelvis slightly to minimise the gap under our back and we are drawing the belly button down towards the spine.  Neutral spine is used in any exercises where the legs are supported and imprinted spine is used when our legs are unsupported and in positions such as tabletop.

Table Top

Table top is when the legs are lifted up and held in a 90 degree position with the knees in line with the hips and the shins in line with the floor.