Refining movement into precise steps requires considerable control and skill. “Small is good” and “big and sloppy” is just that, big, sloppy and usually a mess.
When something is new, it’s exciting, exhilarating and most of us tend to seize the moment, maybe try to swallow the whole scoop all at once. Our intent is to “make it happen” “conquer the hill” “throw ourselves completely into it.” However, like eating ice cream, when you swallow a whole, large scoop of ice cream, you probably end up with quick, brain freeze feedback that, “a small taste was better.”
The same applies to Pilates movement and mastering the precise movements of the method.
Learning to master, for example, the Roll Up and Teaser, is a good way to apply this principle. I think these are two of the most challenging exercises for new students of Pilates. Many try to master the movement by “throwing yourself up” or “whipping forward” in what usually is a failing attempt to get through the exercise. God forbid there is another student in the room that does it more smoothly, then the brain freeze frustration sets in and we throw harder.
Unfortunately, it’s not the best approach to the exercise. Learning to make small, distinct and precise powerhouse connections through the spine and throughout the movement is the work of the exercise. Control. Approaching the Roll Up, the Teaser and all Pilates movements with slow, controlled point-by-point steps will minimize the frustrating “brain freeze” ( not to mention, the teacher’s side eye) in execution. 😉
Gina Jackson, is a classically trained Pilates Teacher and has been teaching along the Gold Coast of Hudson and Bergen County, NJ for the past fifteen+ years.
Certified by Power Pilates of New York, Gina has trained with Master Teachers Bob Liekens, Susan Moran and Brett Howard; loved workshop training with Cary Regan and Blossom Leilani-Crawford and has particularly enjoyed listening to the personal stories as told by Pilates Elders, Kathy Grant and Lolita San Miguel.
An active teacher and blogger, Gina manages a private personal training business supporting a myriad of clients, teaching all to honor their health, strength and life with the principles of Pilates at its core.