Finding Your Yoga or Pilates Teacher: Why It Matters More Than You Think

Finding Your Yoga or Pilates Teacher: Why It Matters More Than You Think 💛

Have you ever walked out of a class thinking, "Well, that wasn't for me"? Maybe the teacher's style didn't land, the music was too much (or too little), or you just didn't feel quite at home.

Before you decide yoga or Pilates isn't your thing, can I gently suggest it might just not have been the right teacher for you yet?

Why the teacher matters so much

You can have the same sequence, the same poses and the same exercises, and two teachers will deliver them in completely different ways. Every teacher has their own style, and that's what makes them authentic. It's how they show up, how they speak, how they move and what they bring to the room.

When you find someone you resonate with, you feel it. You relax, you listen differently, and you're more likely to come back. And turning up regularly is where the real magic happens, for your body and your mind.

Studio or local instructor?

There's no right or wrong here, just what suits you.

Studios

• Can be a lovely haven. You step through the door and your shoulders drop.

• There's often a real sense of community.

• They tend to be fully kitted out with all the props, and decorated in a way that reflects what's being taught.

• On the flip side, they can be pricey. That said, I know studios where this isn't the case, so don't rule them out.

Local instructors (community centres, village halls and the like)

• Prices tend to be lower, which makes regular practice easier on the purse strings.

• The space is hired, so it won't be decorated or kitted out like a dedicated studio.

• But here's the question: as long as it's a clean, safe space, does that really affect your practice? Often, not at all.

• You also get to support someone local, which I love.

Didn't love your first class? Try again

If something put you off, please don't give up. There are so many variations of yoga and Pilates now, depending on how you want to practice. Some people love a more regimented, precise approach. Others want a laugh and a joke along the way. Some teachers play funky music, some use calming yoga music, and some prefer no music at all.

My advice? Don't rule anything out until you've tried it.

There are some fabulous teachers out there

I know so many brilliant yoga and Pilates teachers, in studios, village halls and everywhere in between, and I celebrate every one of them 💛 We each bring something different to the room, and that's exactly the point. There's a teacher out there for everyone, and the more of us there are, the more people get to find their fit.

Most instructors are happy to hear from you before you book. Reach out, ask a few questions, and see how they make you feel. Are they friendly and approachable? Do they offer modifications and options so you can work at your own level? Do they make you feel at ease? That first conversation tells you a lot.

Which teacher have you clicked with, or are you still on the hunt? I'd love to hear. And if you fancy coming along to one of my classes, I'd love to meet you.

"Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better." – Maya Angelou

Much love,
Sarah xx