The Pilates Method Transcends Language

A lot of physical activities transcend language. This happens a lot of times with sports as players can compete in the same game without ever communicating, as long as the rules are understood. This is a bit harder when it comes to exercise as there are usually a lot of instructions as to what needs to take place. Pilates can be this way if a teacher speaks a different language than a student. However, the human body itself does not belong to any one language, and the human body is more or less the blueprint that Pilates works off of. In this regard, Pilates can act more like a sport as a language barrier can prove non-existent.

As a global phenomenon, there are world-renowned Pilates instructors in numerous countries. Excellent teachers routinely hold workshops or international travelers come to further their knowledge and expand upon their training. Language can be an issue navigating these classes, utilizing translators to understand what the teacher is saying. However, the Pilates Method itself doesn't necessarily require language, only a body. It focuses on extension and flexion as well as posture to maximize an exercise. So it's entirely possible that an experienced teacher and student can go through an entire lesson with just hands-on and never uttering a word.

Because the Pilates Method is so universal to the human body, a "conversation" between instructor and student can take place simply by making sure the body is in the correct position. Language can certainly help, obviously, but it can be overcome. So many exercise routines rely on communication to direct a student that language may be an issue. So it's great to see a system to build strength and control where the only language required is an understanding of anatomy.