“I started teaching mat class and class using props and arc. The feedback I received from participants are ”it’s too hard”, or frustrated that they simply just don’t think they could do it.
Maybe I focused too much on the fundamentals, how can I make the class more enjoyable and fun? Most of my clients expect a workout, they want to sweat beacuse the studio is inside a gym, what adjustment can I make?” Peter Mei
Maybe you are trying to do too much. I remember teaching my first ball class that I taught the entire book of execises in one hour. Was I on drugs?
Remember the importance of warmup and interlacing the movement principles within the lesson. The props also can help towards a better understanding.
For instance a rolldown, most people don’t have the flexibility or strength for a roll down.
How do you prepare them?
Concentration
Breath
Flexibity
Core support
What are the components of each exercise? Rolldown needs core support, flexibility and limb connections. You can create a 5 minute warmup just to prepare for roll down.
Breath and hollowing
Upper body flexion
Single leg stretch and leg circles
Bridging
arc with upper body flexion
arc with rollup
rollup with theraband
rollup with no props
Sometimes a prop such as the arc and physioball can be overwhelming to a client. Take time to teach them how to comfortably get on the prop. For instance, many of my clients do not have the flexiblity to lie backwards with their upper spine on the arc. I built blankets up for their heads to rest in a more comfortable position.
Use the props as a warmup. If you want to get clients sweating, use full body movement such as the twist, roll down to pushup and variations to leg pull front/back and side bend. Level changes can get the heartrate up.
