Increase in Injuries During “Pilates Reformer” Classes

The rise in the popularity of Pilates is leading to an increase in injuries—that is the gist of an article published in *The Guardian* on Saturday, April 4.

Is this any surprise? When everything becomes a “trend” or fad that shifts from the hands of experienced and trained professionals to those of businesspeople and influencers, it’s hardly unexpected.

The essence of the Pilates method—the well-kept secret behind the impeccable technique of athletes and dancers since the 1950s—is the personalized approach and faith in its core principles: concentration, breathing, connective tissue relaxation, flow…

Which instructor, with just two weekends of training, has thoroughly worked through the method’s exercise repertoire with their own body, studied anatomy, and gained the knowledge to work with specific populations so they can teach effectively and safely?

What kind of focus are we talking about in classes of 25 students who automatically perform an advanced exercise routine—just as anyone might—without instructions or clarifications, accompanied by music throughout, and sometimes even synchronized to lighting effects?

 

The situation is certainly complicated, as Pilates had not patented his method. A 22-year-long legal battle in the United States led nowhere, resulting in the absence of an official certifying body. There are certainly many excellent training programs around the world, which are costly and require about two years of study, personal practice, and both practical and theoretical training. They include basic knowledge of anatomy and much more, which every conscientious student should seek out and insist on studying before taking on trainees.

In an environment that is financially and professionally demanding, the majority of young people pursuing this path usually take the easy way out. The more affordable and shorter the training program, the better. Ultimately, however, these students find themselves at a dead end because, quite simply, they cannot teach.

Trainees also find themselves in a difficult position, especially those with musculoskeletal issues that require special care, as these conditions worsen when they fall into the hands of inadequately trained instructors.

Personally, I am just as baffled by these trainees as I am by their instructors. How can anyone allow themselves to manipulate another person’s body with such limited knowledge? And the student—how can they put themselves in just anyone’s hands without knowing where that person learned what they’re teaching?

​

This is a big topic, and the discussion could go on for a long time. Investors are setting up gym-style Pilates studios and filling them with high school graduates who have no other connection to the field, after just ten days of training. Some of them soon end up with their own space and sustain it through social skills, appearance, and effective use of Instagram.

Ultimately, a vicious cycle of misunderstandings, injuries, and poor choices regarding studios and instructors ends up discrediting a method that is effective and sound when applied correctly.

 

*The Bodytone training program is intended exclusively

for graduates of dance schools, physical education and

sports science programs, and physical therapists

and lasts 550+ hours.