As a seasoned Pilates teacher, I thought I had seen most of the movements and practices out there, and even tried them all, at least once. They've all come with intriguing names, from Leaping Frogs to American Bottoms (yes... we all raise an eyebrow at that name), and they each bring their unique flair to the mat practice. But little did I know, that the universe had a hilarious plot twist in store for me: attending another Pilates teacher's class here in Crete.
Walking into the studio, I couldn't help but feel quite comfortable (I mean what's the worst that can happen? Well maybe 10.000 Teasers, but still... ) and dare I say confident. After all, I do have 22 years Pilates experience but as the class began, I quickly realized I was in for a humbling experience.
First came the cues – intricate, poetic instructions that had me questioning if I've been teaching in hieroglyphics all this time. "Engage your latissimus dorsi while channeling the energy of a zen master on a mountaintop," the very tanned teacher chirped. Meanwhile, I was just trying to remember if I had come across this particular variation of - yep you guessed it.... TEASER ever before!
Then followed a whirlwind of contortions and contractions that made my usual routine feel like child's play. 'Lift your leg, rotate your pelvis, and summon the strength of a Greek god!' - the teacher proclaimed, very appropriate since we're in Crete after all... while I on the other hand, was summoning the strength not to collapse in a heap of uncontrollable giggles, mixed with some mild profanities at the novelty of it all.
And let's not forget the props – the balls, bands, and blocks strategically placed to challenge even the most seasoned practitioner. As I struggled to balance on a wobbly Bosu ball while simultaneously juggling a foam roller and a resistance band, I couldn't help but marvel at the sheer audacity of the instructor's creativity.
But amidst the chaos and the comedy (and yes mild swearing), there was a valuable reminder of humility and accepting other people's ideas and point of view. For in that moment, I was given a practical example that even the most experienced teachers or practitioners of anything have room to grow, to learn, and to laugh at themselves even if they don't agree with what's being asked. In fact I would go as far as to say that unless you are willing to continue to learn, you shouldn't teach anything and we can always learn something from each other.
I do admire anyone who dares to challenge the status quo, to push the boundaries of convention, and to remind us all that sometimes, the best way to face something unexpected or unusual is to simply smile. I can't help but chuckle at the irony of it all since I'm sure that others have left my classes with exactly the same swirling thoughts of mild confusion. In the end, it wasn't just my body that got a workout – it was my ego, my perspective, and my sense of humor, and for that I am actually really grateful.
Until next time, may your planks be strong, your teasers be tall (with Latissimus Dorsi switched on..), and your sense of adventure be boundless.
And by the way brace yourselves for when I come back with new creative ideas!
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