Progress Over Perfection in Pilates
Progress over perfection in Pilates. Every. Time.
Over the past several weeks, my obsession with Orofino Wellness has kicked up a notch.
Maybe it’s the momentum coming off the Pilates Wellness Weekend. Or maybe it’s because we’re heading into another growth period with Orofino Wellness 3.0 becoming a reality in the not-too-distant future.
Either way, I’ve been feeling the weight of wanting to do it all, and do it perfectly.
I’m someone who doesn’t rest on her laurels. It’s both a blessing and a curse. Even this weekend, my two oldest kids are at their grandparents’, and I can barely sit still.
So as I work toward making a vision a reality, I’m reminded that people like us (because you’re probably a little like me, yeah?) sometimes need the reminder to enjoy the journey.
And that brings me to something I want to share with you.
Are Private Pilates Sessions Necessary?
I had a few conversations in the studio this week about private Pilates sessions.
Two clients were advocating for the importance of privates in Pilates, and I agree with them. Private sessions can absolutely transform your practice. They help you:
Build body awareness
Fine-tune your form
Gain confidence in your movement
In an ideal world, we would teach a private session (or four) to every single client. If I’m being honest, I might even require it before joining group classes.
But that’s not actually the vision for this space.
Why Community Matters More
Because what we’re building at Orofino Wellness isn’t just about Pilates.
It’s about community.
It’s about being in a room with other people who want to move with mindfulness, breath, and ease.
There is something powerful about sharing movement with others. Learning together, laughing together, and realizing that nobody in the room has it all figured out.
Pilates becomes less about getting everything right and more about showing up and participating in the experience.
You Don’t Need to Be “Ready” for a Group Pilates Class
So here’s what I want to advocate for.
For those of you who feel like:
You don’t know enough
You aren’t confident enough
You’re not “good enough” for a group class
Or maybe you already come to group classes but still find yourself doubting whether you belong there.
Let me say this clearly:
It’s not about perfection. It’s about progress.
It’s completely normal to feel like you need to know more first. To study more. To stay in a safer environment, like practicing by yourself or 1:1.
But the truth is:
You can start without knowing everything.
Or anything.
You don’t have to know Pilates, the machines, or even know anything about exercising or fitness.
You just have to be willing to show up.
Pilates Is a Practice, Not a Destination
Pilates isn’t about knowing every movement Joseph Pilates ever created (unless you’re training to be an instructor, of course).
For most of us, Pilates is about something much simpler, and much more meaningful.
It’s about a shared experience of mindful movement.
Yes, private sessions can be incredibly valuable.
But so is learning one small thing in every group class you take.
A new cue, new way to breathe, or even a new sensation in your body.
That’s progress.
Progress Over Perfection
There is no perfection or final arrival point.
You don’t have to strive here.
You can simply meet yourself where you are.
Breath. Move. Connect with your body. Ask a question after class if something didn’t make sense.
But most importantly, enjoy the journey.
I’m working on doing the same.
Pilates Support for Every Stage of Your Journey
If you feel like you need more one-on-one guidance, we’re always happy to support you with private Pilates sessions.
But know this: you are just as welcome in group classes.
Our goal is for you to feel successful, supported, and empowered wherever you begin.
Ready to try your first class?
Our New Student Intro Pack (3 Classes for $60) is the perfect way to start exploring Pilates at Orofino Wellness.
Come experience what progress over perfection really feels like. Click here to get started.