Pilates and the Overweight Client

A challenge for Pilates professionals is to empower the obese population to even consider a Pilates practice in the first place.  Pilates, when done correctly, can address an obese body’s structural imbalances and posture; enhance respiration and coordination; and improve how the client views his or her body- which may be the most powerful benefit of all. 

In this workshop, we explore the effects of weight accumulation in different areas of the body and how this affects the client’s center of gravity while exercising.  Both the de-conditioned and the fit overweight client will be discussed. 

We will look at exercise selection, common assists for this population, and cueing tips to ensure successful sessions.  You will learn how using BASI Pilates principles and proper exercise selection with your overweight clients can empower them throughout their sessions and their lives.

Many of us have not lived in an overweight body so it is difficult to understand the feeling of movement restriction.  We will pair up and use creative ways to explore what it feels like to exercise with excess body mass.  The importance of having good modifications ready in each exercise selected will become apparent.  You will discover first-hand how a knowledgeable instructor can help the overweight client’s feeling of success and lessen the feeling of discouragement.  

We will practice building BASI Pilates fundamental sessions according to the BASI Block System, but including modifications and assists to make the exercises appropriate for the overweight client.  You will also have the opportunity to experience a fundamental BASI mat class.