When creating learning curves, each level of the move needs
to progress as smoothly and clearly to the final option as possible. Avoid moves that cannot be broken down into levels. Try not to keep participants in a holding pattern, such as marching, as many of them will be inclined to stop moving altogether. Repeat each level and then tell the participants to choose the one that is best for them. Once the routine and appropriate learning curves have been
established, we reach the biggest challenge as instructors: to get all participants working at the level that is best for them. Most par- ticipants will just copy what the instructor is doing, especially first timers and beginners. It is important that the instructor repeats all movement levels at least once. Normally, the advanced participants are easy to manage, as they
will remember the steps and continue to do the final level. We need to read our class and stay longer at the level that needs the most help. Try to get the participants to remember the choreography themselves instead of just following you. It can be helpful to stop and watch the participants to see if they
can do it without you. This is a good chance for you to have a rest, while motivating the class to concentrate and work harder. When I teach a step class for all levels, I’m inclined to stay with level one or two as these are normally the participants that need the most help. I often still cue the advanced option either verbally or with a sign, such as holding one hand up and rotating the wrist in circles to say “you can add a turn here if you like”. Encourage participants but notice and respect their choices.
Some participants who are able to do the harder options may choose not to, due to tiredness, illness, or having just had a long break. Different levels are there for health and fitness reasons, not just to help those who can’t easily pick up choreography. Never forget that the participants are our clients. If we choose to
demonstrate the advanced level, we might look good and give a great performance, but are we providing the best service for our clients? We are not performers or solo dancers. We are instructors helping our clients to achieve their goals whether to lose weight, de-stress, maintain a healthy heart, or just have fun and connect with the music, the movements, and the group exercise setting. We want to make everyone feel welcome in the class. If we stay
with the advanced option, many participants will get lost, as they will forget the easier options and not be able to manage the advanced. This could make them reluctant to go to group exercise classes and may even put them off going to the gym altogether. Most people care too much about what others may think of them. They don’t want to feel clumsy and embarrassed. We need them to feel good and be safe, so we instructors must work with what is best for our class, always. When shown steps for every level, participants will always be
challenged and can easily progress when they feel ready. By help- ing all your participants to enjoy a safe and effective class, you can help make them feel a sense of accomplishment. You want to make your class part of their weekly exercise regime; something they will not want to miss. Make them feel good about themselves, happy to come to group exercise classes and most of all, improve their health and fitness.
Currently based in Singapore at Asia’s leader in fitness centres California Fitness, Kayla is Assistant Group X Country Manager of Singapore, instructs full-time, choreographs many programs, trains and assesses instructors and presents nationally and internationally regularly. Before starting her career in the fitness industry, Kayla danced for several years in stage productions, ranging from famous ballets to small town performances making her presentation style truly unique.
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