What should you do if a student does not have enough flexibility for an exercise?

Using modifications to support a student who does not have enough flexibility for an exercise is an effective and compassionate approach. Modifications allow the instructor to tailor the practice to the student's current abilities, ensuring they can still engage with the exercise without risking injury or discomfort. This method promotes safety and encourages students to develop their skills gradually.

By offering alternative variations or props, the instructor helps the student maintain proper alignment and achieve the intended benefits of the exercise without overstraining. It fosters a supportive environment where students can feel successful in their practice, enhance their flexibility over time, and build confidence in their abilities.

In contrast, pushing a student to perform beyond their current flexibility limits can lead to injury and discourage them from continuing. Progressing to more complex exercises without addressing the foundational issues of flexibility may also set the student up for failure. Ending the lesson prematurely does not provide the student with a constructive path for improvement, which is essential for their growth and development in Pilates practice.