“Empathy has no script. There is no right way or wrong way to do it. It’s simply listening, holding space, withholding judgement, emotionally connecting, and communicating that incredibly healing message of ‘You’re not alone.’”
– Brene Brown
Empathy is a key pillar of the Fluidform teaching method. As instructors, we see clients at their best, and when they are experiencing tough times. It is our job to treat every client with empathy and kindness, to make every studio experience a highlight of their day. To be an instructor is a privilege, we get the opportunity to change the course of our clients day utilising the power of movement to positively affect their wellbeing.
Moving your body is crucial to our mental health. There is a direct correlation between a positive mental outlook and movement. Taking the time out of our busy and hectic schedules to dedicate an hour to yourself can change the whole course of your day.
Why is empathy so important as an instructor?
- When doing the important task of hands on correction, we must be mindful and thoughtful of our clients. Ask if it is ok if we correct them physically. Some clients will not feel comfortable being touched, for various reasons, this is why it is crucial to ask prior to any correction.
- When dictating the intensity and pace of your class, have a scan and gauge what your clients are feeling. Some days, clients do not feel up to a high intensity class, others days, clients are up for it and are wanting a more upbeat, heart pumping class.
- Being an instructor requires great people skills and emotional intelligence. When interacting with your clients, use this to gauge what a client might be going through out of the studio. A simple ‘Hope your day is going well’ or ‘ You are doing amazing in class!’ can go a very long way.
- Connection. Instructor and client connection is so important and a key factor of the job. Connect with your clients, enquire about their day, how their week is going and how their body is feeling. These little questions can positively change the clients day, a little kindness and curiosity will always go a long way.
- Coming to a workout class can be daunting to some clients, a group workout setting can deter people from moving their bodies. This could be for a variety of reasons. It is the instructor’s job to make the class an inviting, warm and open space where every client feels safe, accepted and excited to move their bodies.
Fluidform training aims to create well rounded, highly knowledgeable and empathetic instructors. The Fluidform method is designed to change our clients bodies but also positively impact their mental wellbeing. The power of mindful movement can be felt by anyone. If you have discovered the benefits of the Pilates movement and want to help others feel their best, Fluidform training has been created so you can change the lives of others, anytime, anywhere.
