What skills are important when teaching Aerial Pilates?

What skills are important when teaching Aerial Pilates? 

When teaching Aerial Pilates, there are a few different and important skills that can support teachers journeys as they teach and guide their clients with the Aerial hammocks.

Teaching is both a very rewarding skill and career, it can also be lonely and isolating without the right support and connections on the way.  This guide has been written to acknowledge the areas that are important to focus on for skills and also to recognise where you need or could do with some friendly support along the way!    

Here are 8 key skills I'd share as being key for teaching Aerial Pilates

1.Safety Awareness

Safety is number one priority in Aerial or Aerial Pilates or Aerial Yoga. Teachers do need to have an awareness of safety information, legality's,  including best practise rigging and appropriate equipment. 

Safety skills in teaching:  As the teacher you want to be able to feel in control and confident with your skills.   You can clearly identify potential risks and be able to provide simple modifications or assistance with spotting techniques to students.  The timing of this is key, whether it's to preempt a situation or control the class structure and environment so that it's safe for all. 

2.Strong knowledge and practice of Aerial Pilates techniques and syllabus

Teachers should have a deep understanding of Aerial Pilates techniques, including body alignment/awareness, transitions, progressions and regressions or adaptations. This knowledge allows them to effectively guide students through exercises and ensure correct form. 

3. Clear communication and instruction

Great communication skills are crucial for teachers to convey instructions clearly.  It’s key to be able to break down complex movements into simple stages, use appropriate cues, and provide clear demonstrations to support the students understanding and encourage enjoyment, fun and build confidence. 

4. Adaptability and modification skills (Have a tool kit up your sleeve)

Each student has unique abilities and limitations. As a great teacher, you want to be able to identify where the student is at so you can equally modify exercises or provide progressions that they're ready for.  Some clients hold them selves back, for some it's important to focus on control and intention first.   It's key to be able to accommodate different skill levels, body types, and personality types during a session.  This ensures that all students have their own path to travel and focus on and you're meeting them where they are at. 

5. Observation and assessment skills

As a great teacher, you want to have a trained eye for observing. This gives you information about where the student or client is at and then you can guide them and give them timely feedback.   By being able to watch and notice, you can then offer the right guidance for improvement or connection.   This is where students and clients will really value and appreciate your input. 

6. Ability to create well-structured and balanced classes and workshops

It's another skill to design classes and workshops that meet the clients needs as well as bring a variety of exercises, targeting different muscle groups, and perhaps having a specific theme or focus.  As a teacher you want to be able to create a balanced workout that challenges students while considering their individual needs and goals.  Sometimes that means scrapping the plan and using your educated and sophisticated toolkit and experience to adapt in the moment!

7. Knowledge of anatomy 

Understanding human anatomy and biomechanics, is a great key for teachers of any movement.  Having an understanding and a clear map of the body gives you a deeper understanding of the clients sensations or feedback.  It is important to know specific contraindications for Aerial, Aerial Pilates or Yoga.  It is also important to identify when it's not your area of expertise and when to suggest or lead the clients towards a physio, osteopath, doctor,  physician or appropriate professional to guide them best. 

8. Passion for teaching and continuous learning

Aerial Pilates teachers usually have a genuine passion for it!  A love of teaching and a commitment to ongoing learning comes from feeling like you are learning and truly supporting and guiding your clients.   When you feel that you're really in it with them, meeting them where they are at and providing the right support, the right guidance and the right syllabus.   You want to learn more.  Grow more and keep that natural moment and bliss up!   There's a desire to stay updated with the latest research, attend workshops or trainings, and seek opportunities to expand knowledge and skills. 

By learning and having these important skills, Aerial Pilates teachers can create a relaxed and effective learning space.  

This helps client or students progress safely and achieve their goals.  It'll also make the atmosphere safe and connected for the person teaching too.  Be safe, have fun! 

Fly forward with purpose,

Debbie 

xx