Nervous About Your First Pilates Client? Here's What Every New Teacher Needs to Hear

"I just finished my teacher training and I have my first client next week. I know Pilates. I've studied hard, I've passed all my tests, and I genuinely believe in the work. But I am absolutely terrified. What if I forget everything the moment they walk in? What if they ask me something I don't know? What if I'm just... not ready?"

— Shaking in My Grip Socks

Dear Shaking in My Grip Socks,

First — congratulations! Getting to the other side of teacher training is a big deal and you should be proud. Second — what you're feeling is not a sign that you're not ready. It is a sign that you care. And caring is the most important qualification for this job.

Here's the truth: your first session is not going to be your best session. Neither is your tenth. I always tell my apprentices – prepare to stay up the night before nervous and accept that your first session will not be reflective of your skills because of those nerves.  The first pancake and all…

Teaching is a practice, just like Pilates itself. You don't walk in on day one expecting a perfect Swan Dive, and you shouldn't expect a perfect session either.

Now let's talk about the fear of "forgetting everything." You won't. Your body and your mind have absorbed more than you realize. But just in case, here's your secret weapon: the client in front of you is not a test. They are a person. Start with them. Ask how they're feeling. Watch how they move. Let their body give you the information you need and respond to what you see. And when in doubt…say EXHALE! That’s an appropriate cue at any time.  

And if they ask you something you don't know? Say so. "That's a great question — let me look into that and get back to you." No one respects a teacher who makes things up. Everyone respects a teacher who is honest and follows through.

You are ready enough to begin. And beginning is how you become great.

Now go teach.

xx

Jessica