Pilates Contraindications for Instructors: Common Conditions & Modifications
Aug 9
2 min read
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As a newly qualified Pilates teacher, it's normal to feel unsure when clients present with pain, joint issues, or past injuries. One of the most empowering tools you can develop is an understanding of contraindications — movements or positions that may be unsafe or unsuitable for certain health conditions.
This blog offers a basic overview of some common ailments you might come across when teaching. It’s not designed to turn you into a medical expert, but to help you start recognising patterns, feel more confident modifying your teaching, and know when to refer on.
What Is a Contraindication?
A contraindication is a movement or position that may be harmful or aggravating for someone with a particular condition.
For example:
A client recovering from shoulder impingement may need to avoid overhead work or planks.
Learning to identify and respect contraindications:
Keeps your teaching safe and effective
Helps you adapt your cues and programming
Prepares you for more advanced qualifications like Exercise Referral, Low Back Pain, or Special Populations
Pilates Contraindications for Instructors: Why It matters
Some of your future clients will have chronic or recurring conditions like back pain, arthritis, or joint replacements. While these issues don’t necessarily exclude them from Pilates, they do require thoughtful, informed movement choices.
Understanding the basics of common conditions and knowing when to refer back to a physio or GP is a key part of being a safe, ethical, and trusted teacher.
FREE Pilates Instructor’s Pocket Guide: Common Conditions
We’ve created a simple downloadable guide covering:
Brief descriptions of common conditions
Typical symptoms
Contraindicated movements to avoid
Suggested exercise modifications for Pilates
It’s designed to be used as a quick reference tool as you practise cueing and planning your classes.
Final Thought:
Pilates Contraindications for Instructors: You’re not expected to know it all, but beginning to recognise common patterns is a big step forward. If you’re ever unsure whether a movement is safe, or if a client presents with a condition outside your current scope, it’s always best to refer them to a medical health professional, this shows professionalism and care.
