Applying Movement Principles
The same principles apply across all signature formats. Your role is to adjust how they are used based on the goal of the class or segment.
As you design your classes and teach, ask yourself:
- What is the focus of this segment?
- What movement qualities am I reinforcing?
- How will I respond if movement quality changes?
To help you apply these principles in real time, use a simple coaching approach:
- Prioritize what matters most
- Watch how participants are moving
- Provide exercise options/modifications that allow participants to self-select an appropriate option based on their needs and abilities.
You can apply this same approach across all key movement concepts in your class. Here are the key concepts:
Movement Quality
Prioritize: Movement quality before intensity
Watch for: Loss of control, and changes in posture and momentum
Options: Provide exercise modifications: slow down, reduce range of motion, or offer support
Joint Mobility and Stability
Prioritize: Movement control
Watch for: Excess movement in areas that should remain stable
Adjust: Simplify or reduce load
Muscular Endurance
Prioritize: Movement control
Watch for: Fatigue that affects movement
Adjust: Shorten duration or offer rest
Strength
Prioritize: Functional movement with control
Watch for: Strain or loss of alignment
Adjust: Reduce resistance or modify position
Speed, Agility, and Power (Dynamic Movement)
Prioritize: Coordination and control
Watch for: Loss of confidence or timing
Adjust: Reduce speed or complexity
Teaching During Class
Even with a strong plan, you will need to adjust during class.
- Encourage participants to listen to their bodies
- Normalize rest and provide modification
- Reinforce that control matters more than intensity
- Use clear, calm language
Your goal is to support confidence and consistency, not perfection.
Here is a Class Design Checklist for Back Support:
When you apply these principles consistently, you create classes that support safe movement, functional strength, and long-term confidence.