Moving Up
Unlike other studios which require an expensive purchase of several private introductory lessons, TerraLuna believes in letting you try before you buy.
We provide options so that you can decide what is the most comfortable and convenient way we can acquaint you with the Reformer, key concepts, and some basic terminology.
We are always here to answer your questions and provide support and encouragement so feel free to give us a call or simply stop by the studio and say hello.
The TerraLuna Difference
Pilates can be modified to accommodate most body types,
fitness levels, ages, and mobility levels.
Because many Pilates activities are done lying down on the Reformer,
they are accessible for most people,
even those with significant health challenges or previous injuries.
We are committed to providing a safe and respectful environment
welcoming to all bodies.
After a few Beginner's Reformer Classes, Guests often ask:
"How do I know when I'm ready to move up to a more difficult class?"
The main differences between a Beginner's Reformer class and all other Reformer classes (aside from StretchLates):
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Pace of the class. Beginner's Reformer moves overall more slowly with more time to rest or stretch between activities.
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Fewer repetitions of activities (4-6 sets) in Beginner's class than in other classes (5-8 sets).
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Single activities. Beginner's class concentrates on the basics of each movement. As we say: Pilates looks simple, but it is not easy! Developing muscle memory of correct technique is so important that we take time in Beginner's classes to build a good foundation of movement.
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Using props to add variety and challenge to activities.
Beginner's Reformer is designed to build skills, core strength, and stamina so that Guests can participate in other classes with:
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An understanding of Pilates principals like posture, breathing, and core muscle engagement.
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Strength and stability to safely participate in more challenging movements.
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A catalog of fundamental movements. Once Guests know the basic building blocks they can learn new and more challenging movements on the fly.
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Ability to confidently flow from activity A into activity B and continue into a combination of A + B together.
Guests need to be safe and and proficient with specific skills before moving into other classes. For example:
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C-Curve
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Planks
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Roll-downs on the carriage
The last difference between Beginner's Classes and all other classes is self-sufficiency!
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Checking/adjusting/setting up your Reformer before class starts.
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Confidence manipulating the springs on the Reformer to customize your work.
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Autonomy in modifying movements, opting out of breaks, and personalizing your class experience.
So, back to the original question:
How do Guests know when they're ready to move up?
Guests will have a conversation with an Instructor before being cleared to sign up for more challenging classes.
We will chat about:
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your personal needs and goals
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your progress, skill and ability levels
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your safety and our policies surrounding "moving up" found here in our Q&A's.
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the next steps that work best for you
As we shared in our original blog post on this subject (found here) the concept of "moving up" isn't meant to diminish or devalue Beginner's Classes or the Beginner Guest. There is absolutely no expectation whatsoever that a Guest should or would ever move away from a Beginner's Class! Guests who enjoy the pace, skill set, and atmosphere of the Beginner's Class are always welcomed to participate as long as it fits their needs.
And when Guests are ready to continue their fitness journey by moving into more challenging classes, we are here to support that growth!
Your Guide to Challenge Levels
