Choosing Your Next Fitness Guru

Working on my abs and tush with my new fave fitness guru, Deborah of Life Long Pilates.

How amazing is this picture of Deborah?  She assures me that in time I can try that:)

I've met a lot of pilates instructors over the years...  From private sessions to group reformer classes, I've tried it all.   But when I threw out my back in January, it was a painful reminder that not all instructors are created equal.  The pain was unbearable.  I couldn't even pick up my two year old.  The underlying beauty of my injury was the realization that I needed someone on my workout team who understood correct form, breathwork and technique.

Deborah Watkins of Life Long Pilates in Santa Monica is a pro!  Today my entire body was shaking as she catered the workout to my body.  She doesn't just stick you on the reformer and walk you through the same mundane routine.  She noticed how my hips were misaligned, and quickly readjusted my positioning when my knee started hurting.  Plus she gave me all kinds of wonderful juicing tips, which I will share with you in another post.  But first, if you're looking to get your rear end in shape, align your body, and strengthen that heart, here are some tips for finding the right instructor.

Experience and Credentials - I saw a news segment where the reporter took an online course to become a personal trainer. Without any real experience, he walked into a gym and started personal training.  Now that's scary!  Not only are you spending your hard earned money, but you're letting this person take care of your body.  Educate yourself.

Ask Simple Questions -  For example, in a trial session I'll ask the instructor about breathing.  When am I supposed to breathe in again?  Does my posture look correct?  What's the name of this exercise again?  Stuttering and confusion on the instructors side, is not a good sign!

Listen to your Body - Okay this is number one in everything you do...  Listen to your body, it has a wonderful way of talking to us.  But often times we don't listen.  If you feel pain in your knee, say something.  Believe me, it's not worth injuring yourself.

Always take a Private Session First -  I always advise learning the proper technique and use of the machines before walking into a class full of people.  Without that introductory session, you risk injuring yourself more because you have no clue what you're doing.  Plus you're not as likely to slow down when something feels off because you don't want to look like an idiot!  Oh, and a lot of gyms offer free private training sessions or checkout Groupon for special rates.

Give Yourself Time -  The body doesn't tone up and loose inches overnight so don't expect results right away.  Set realistic expectations so you don't burn out!

Have Fun -  The last pilates instructor I visited was miserable.  My friend referred loved her, but she just didn't work for me.  I caught myself staring at the clock, counting down the minutes when I could run for the door.  My new favorite instructor is like night and day from the last.  She actually loves her job...  You can tell the difference.  She motivates and challenges me.  Find someone you like, otherwise you're less likely to stick to a routine.