We have based our whole concept on facing this problem. Here's how:

New folks will pay an extremely reasonable fee for a 1-hour private with the same instructor who will teach their class. Familiarity, shared language and concepts, and a little homework will allow people to join thier new class in comfort and style. OR....

For the same shockingly reasonable price new students may instead recieve an integrated manual/DVD which breaks down the 18 basic mat exercises. Our words and images showing the moves as they are taught in class.This is our 2nd choice because we believe a private session brings the best results. If you opt for the manual/DVD, please set aside 2 1/2 to 3 hours to Read-Watch-Practice befor you come to your 1st class.

This is so old it's new again. We teach according to the "Joe and Clara" principle. The "Joe" booms out instuctions and moves the class, while the "Clara" moves about helping individuals to understand and personalize the exercises.

Classically, Pilates is never demonstrated. It is described so the student can "discover" the move and its virtues for themself. While there is great wisdom in this most visual learners(approx. 25% of folks) find it to be an agonizing waste of time(time=$).

Mat or Private, easy or hard, we will cheerfully change gears and demonstrate any time you say "show me."

If we can tell you to do something, why can't you tell us to do it?