Why I love Pilates props!

Boys have ‘boy toys’ Pilates has ‘Pilates toys’ better known as props. I love my Pilates toys!

From exercise bands to magic circles to my newest piece of equipment a portable Pilates Arc, props can add challenges, assistance or spice up a regular Pilates workout.  The right prop can make a hard exercise easier and a simple exercise more challenging.

What is the main and most important reason that I use props with my clients?  Props can help them facilitate the proper execution of an exercise.  Modifications! Props help my client to build the strength or awareness necessary to perform the “real” exercise properly. They help build confidence that they can do the exercise!  Although, the original Pilates exercises are effective on their own, some people just can’t do them right, yet!  Props can be the stepping stone a client needs to succeed with a particular exercise.  As an instructor I believe it is not only my job to teach an exercise but to inspire and motivate my client as well. Results are an important factor in motivation.

Another good reason for the use of props is because they introduce muscle confusion training.  The muscle confusion training principle states that muscles adapt to a specific type of stress and need to be challenged in varied ways in order to continue experiencing results.  Muscles improve from being subjected to new and different stresses and challenges which is exactly what props can provide. Muscles performing the same action day after day “get bored” just as clients get bored with the same workout. Variety is the spice of life.
 
Has your client mastered an exercise or are they finding an exercise too easy? Use of a prop can also be used to challenge them.  Try the hundreds a classic Pilates exercise with a Magic Circle between their ankles. May be just the challenge they need!

As an instructor it is important to know which prop to use and why you are using that particular prop. What is your goal in using a particular prop?  Challenge your client?   Do an exercise correctly?  Target their core?  Facilitate better alignment?  Knowing the merits of each prop and which ones best suit your client’s  need or objectives is the first step to integrating props successfully into your clients or even your own Pilates workouts.

Last but not least……..What do I love most of all about props?  Props are portable!  I teach Pilates in the comfort of my client’s home or building’s gym. All they need do is supply their body, I supply the rest.

Would love your comments about the use of props! Do you have a favorite?

Marguerite Ogle, About.com has an excellent guide to small Pilates equipment. Props Guide

Susan Sommers is a Pilates instructor specializing in those 50+ in NYC, NY