One of the benefits of being a Pilates Instructor is the chance to get creative with your classes and clients.
Using exercises from other mind-body modalities, such as ZEN•GA, can give clients new movement options that keep workouts fresh and interesting. A unique mind-body modality that fuses elements of Pilates, yoga, martial arts and meditation into a series of flowing movements that emphasize the breath and strengthen both body and mind, ZEN•GA’s focus on combining strength, endurance, flexibility and dynamic stability of the entire body are the perfect complement to a Mat- or Reformer-based Pilates class. Below are four reasons why adding a dash of ZEN•GA to a Pilates class is worth it.
- Another tool for the kit: Good Instructors are always adding to their toolkits to enhance the client experience, and ZEN•GA offers alternate ways of teaching new and common movement patterns to clients. For example, clients often struggle to fully expand the ribcage laterally in a seated position during focused breathing, and incorporating ZEN•GA programming and principles can help perfect this skill. Using a Mini Stability Ball™ as a focal point under the upper ribcage along with specific imagery and targeted cueing, the client is now able to understand what is being asked of them
- Ease into exercises: At times, clients may have difficulty with some Pilates exercises due to restrictions in certain areas of the body. Included in ZEN•GA programming are some excellent exercises that can help release restrictions in the foot, leg and hip. Using some of the Flex-Band® techniques, found in the ZEN•GA Foundation Course and in the Lower Body Focus workshop, prior to the Pilates workout, can help prime clients to better connect when getting into strengthening exercises on the Mat or STOTT PILATES® equipment
- Total body workout: ZEN•GA provides the whole package. Each class incorporates release techniques, breath work, mobility strength and flexibility. Class formats often involve many exercises in a standing position, which provides a nice change from the Mat, and standing helps to strengthen balance which is very important for proper gait patterns as we age. Movements incorporate all planes, enhancing functional movement patterns that are so key to performing daily activities
- Earn CECs: ZEN•GA is recognized by a host of high-level industry bodies worldwide, including canfitpro, the American Council on Exercise and the Register of Exercise Professionals, and fitness professionals can earn Continuing Education Credits for the ZEN•GA Foundation Course and workshops. Check out the Merrithew blog for more information on third party accreditation
For more information on ZEN•GA courses and workshops, contact an Education Advisor at educationadvisor@merrithew.com or call 1-800-910-0001 ext. 300.