What to Expect in Your Initial Private Assessment at Arjan Studio
Written by Sajida, Pilates Instructor, Pilates Academy Arjan
This assessment differs from drop in sessions as it focuses solely on you. Instructors explain the anatomy behind each movement, setting the stage for progress on equipment like the Reformer, Cadillac and Chair. New clients often follow this with three group classes for AED 300 including 5% VAT.
What happens before you arrive?
Book your assessment through Glofox on the studio website or app. Arrive 10 minutes early at Building 88, Shop 05, Al Barsha South Third in Arjan. You complete a simple intake form online or on site, noting any recent fitness history or preferences. Wear comfortable fitted clothing and bring a water bottle, as covered in what to wear and bring to your first session.
The studio opens Monday to Friday from 7 AM to 10 PM and weekends from 9 AM to 5 PM, serving areas like Arjan, Al Barsha South, Dubai Hills, Motor City, Dubai Sports City, JVC and JVT.
Wondering if the assessment suits your schedule? Call the Arjan studio on +971 56 216 8166 or message us on WhatsApp.
Parking is available nearby, and the instructor greets you at reception.How does the session start?
Your instructor begins with a brief chat about your goals and experience. You stand for a posture check, observing natural alignment from head to feet. This reveals habits like forward shoulders or uneven weight distribution without any correction yet.
Next comes breath work on the mat. You practise diaphragmatic breathing lying down, feeling rib cage expansion. The instructor explains how breath coordinates with movement, a principle central to classical Pilates. This 10 minute warm up prepares you for apparatus work.
Expect gentle cues only, building awareness before adding challenge. This mirrors techniques in Reformer Hundred preparation for core endurance.
What apparatus will you use?
The assessment uses introductory positions on the Reformer, Cadillac and Chair. On the Reformer, you try footwork to assess leg alignment and pelvic stability. The Cadillac introduces supine leg springs for hip mobility, as in getting started with Cadillac.
Reformer basics
You lie on the carriage pressing pedals away with feet strapped or on the bar. Focus stays on neutral spine and even effort from both sides. The instructor notes asymmetries and explains muscle involvement.
Cadillac and Chair introduction
Cadillac leg springs target controlled leg lifts. The Chair tests single leg press for unilateral strength, linking to Wunda Chair single leg press. Each lasts a few minutes with rest.
Sessions stay private, unlike group classes limited to five.
What exercises come next?
After basics, you progress to mat work like the Hundred preparation for abdominal engagement. Arm springs on Cadillac follow, building shoulder stability. Each exercise lasts two to three minutes with detailed feedback.
Instructors emphasise pelvic placement and imprint, preventing arching. You learn power house activation, the core muscle group Joseph Pilates described. Explanations tie to anatomy, enhancing understanding as in how anatomy explanations help Chair classes.
No full series occur; focus remains foundational. Progress reflects your readiness, with modifications for comfort.
How does the instructor give feedback?
Feedback comes verbally and through light touch cues, such as placing a hand on your lower back for imprint. You hear phrases like "draw navel to spine" or "lengthen through crown of head". Mirrors help self check alignment.
The instructor notes strengths and areas for growth, discussing them midway. This builds your vocabulary for group classes. Sessions avoid overload, prioritising quality over quantity.
By session end, you grasp key principles for ongoing practice.
What occurs at the end?
The last 10 minutes review observations and recommend next steps. You receive tips for home practice, like breath drills. The instructor suggests group classes matching your level, such as mat or Reformer.
Book your three introductory group classes for AED 300 including 5% VAT directly after. Email arjan@pilatesacademydubai.com for queries. Depart feeling informed and ready.
How should you prepare mentally?
Approach with openness, not perfection. The assessment reveals movement without judgement. Focus on sensation over performance; small adjustments yield gains over time.
Practice breath awareness beforehand. Rest well the night prior for attentiveness. This sets you up for success in small group settings.
Common questions
Do I need prior Pilates experience?
No experience is required. The assessment accommodates all levels, from complete beginners to those with fitness backgrounds. Instructors modify exercises to match your current ability and provide clear progressions.
Is the assessment physically demanding?
It remains gentle and introductory. You control intensity, with frequent rests. The aim is assessment, not workout, lasting under an hour total.
Can I book group classes straight after?
Yes, use the three class package for AED 300 including 5% VAT. Glofox handles scheduling during opening hours. The assessment equips you for immediate group participation.
What if I feel nervous?
This is common for first timers. The private format allows questions without pressure. Instructors create a supportive space focused on your comfort.
How soon can I reschedule if needed?
Contact via WhatsApp or phone promptly. Glofox permits changes up to 24 hours before. Flexibility suits busy schedules in areas like Dubai Hills or Motor City.
