Beyond the Aesthetics: Understanding the ‘Why’ Behind the ‘What’
Instagram Pilates often showcases the “wow” — but what we really need is the why. To move beyond the scroll, we need to ask better questions. Instead of immediately trying that flashy new move in your next session, pause and view it through the lens of movement assessment. Ask yourself:
- Breath: Is it integrated naturally, supporting the movement, or absent altogether?
- Mobility: What joint or spinal mobility is being challenged or enhanced? Is it relevant to your clients’ needs?
- Alignment: Is the alignment dynamic and supportive throughout the range of motion, or is there risk of strain?
- Control: Is there mindful control, or is the movement relying on momentum or tension?
- Integration: Is the body working as a whole, or is it an isolated shape for the sake of aesthetics?
When you apply these principles, you gain clarity. You begin to see beyond the image — understanding the intent, function, and context of what’s being performed.
Instagram as a Source of Inspiration, Not Imitation
Don’t get us wrong — Instagram can be a brilliant source of ideas. It can spark creativity and expose you to fresh sequences, transitions, or ways of cueing. But it’s not a blueprint.
A movement that looks stunning on screen may not serve your client’s current goals, physical capabilities, or injury history. As teachers, our job is to adapt, modify, and build with purpose — always putting the individual’s needs first.
In this way, we stay rooted in client-centric teaching, blending inspiration with intention. Our focus becomes quality of movement, not the complexity of choreography.
Teaching in the Age of Social Media
It’s also worth addressing the elephant in the room — your clients are seeing this content too. Many come to sessions influenced by what they’ve seen online. That’s not a bad thing. It’s an opportunity.
When a client asks about a move they found on Instagram, open the door to conversation. Use it as a teaching moment:
“This is what that movement might be aiming for — here’s how we can explore something similar, in a way that works for your body.”
Empower your clients by helping them shift from external cues to internal awareness. From copying, to connecting.
Ready to Go Deeper? Join the Conversation In-Person
If you’re ready to refine your approach, grow your confidence in navigating Pilates on social media, and walk away with practical tools you can immediately apply to your classes and personal practice — join us for “Decoding Pilates on Instagram: Moving Beyond the Scroll” with Shelly Power at the Polestar Studio in London.
This engaging, thought-provoking workshop is open to Pilates instructors of all backgrounds (you don’t need to be Polestar-trained!) and dedicated students alike.
Come learn how to look beyond the scroll — and teach with clarity, purpose, and joy.
👉 Register now– limited spots available.
Because at Polestar, we don’t just teach Pilates. We teach people how to feel good moving again.