Tips for Training Lagree Studio Instructors

Tips for Training Lagree Studio Instructors to Deliver Safe, Effective Classes

Why instructor training matters so much
The caliber of your lagree studio instructors can truly determine the success or failure of your business. Your clients aren't just showing up for the equipment or the studio space itself—they're coming for that amazing 50-minute journey guided by your talented teachers.

That's why comprehensive instructor training is mission-critical. You want your instructors to fully comprehend the unique Lagree method and motivate and forge genuine connections with clients that keep them eagerly returning to class after class. Proper training is the key to developing those essential abilities in your team.

In this post, here are some tips and strategies for training instructors to be safe, effective, and engaging as you build a stellar team of knowledgeable teachers who deliver fun, rewarding workouts clients love.

First, a quick Lagree training refresher
Before we get into the training tips, let's review the intensive certification process Lagree instructors complete. This gives you an idea of the expansive knowledge base they develop:

• Mastering every unique Lagree movement and exercise 
• Perfecting proper form, technique, pacing, and coaching cues for each move 
• Learning effective class warmup sequences and programming formulas
• Understanding how to safely physically adjust clients and scale moves to any fitness level
• Discovering how to motivate and encourage clients verbally and through energy
• Studying important anatomy, biomechanics, and kinesiology principles 

That's a whole lot of in-depth expertise to absorb! However, instructors must fully understand every facet of this specialized methodology before teaching classes. And quality training continues beyond the initial certification; the best instructors continually hone their skills.

Now, let's get into our favorite tips and techniques for ongoing Lagree instructor training and development!

Tip 1: Immerse Instructors in the Lagree Philosophy

Have new instructors submerge themselves in the full Lagree methodology by intensively studying the Level 1 training manual. Grasping the programming's science, physiology and purpose allows instructors to explain and coach each nuance of every move adequately. 

New teachers closely shadow senior instructors during multiple classes, reinforcing how sessions should optimally flow and feel. After shadowing, have new instructors co-teach portions of classes alongside veteran mentors to get comfort in delivering coaching cues and adjusting clients hands-on. Immersive training like this cements their working understanding of the Lagree method.

Tip 2: Obsess Over Perfect Form and Technique

Proper alignment, posture, and technique are paramount when using the Megaformer machines safely and effectively. Spend ample one-on-one time drilling perfect positioning and coordinated movements for every exercise, including clear verbal instructions, visual demonstrations, tactile guidance, and plenty of hands-on adjustments to impart ideal form. 

Emphasize how proper technique maximizes workout effectiveness, maintains joint stability, and prevents injury. New instructors should practice adjusting fellow trainees and be adjusted themselves to deeply engrain proper form. Don't be afraid to provide instant feedback and correction during classes—this real-time adjustment is key for training mastery.

Tip 3: Keep Instructors Updated on Developments in the Method

One thing we love about Lagree is how the method keeps evolving as new moves, transitions, playlists, and equipment innovations are introduced. Make continuing education a priority by sending instructors to specialized Lagree workshops and bringing in guest master trainers regularly to teach cutting-edge techniques. 

Establish a library of training videos and manuals instructors can access to stay up-to-date. Try hosting roundtable discussions where instructors can share learnings and insights from seminars and trainings with their peers, ensuring your team is always on the leading edge!

Tip 4: Facilitate an Instructor Community

Some of the most impactful training happens instructor-to-instructor through mentorship and collaboration. Formally pair new instructors with veteran mentors who can share knowledge and experience. Arrange periodic peer exchanges where instructors observe each other’s classes and provide constructive feedback.

Foster a positive culture of teamwork and continual growth. Instructors can collectively brainstorm creative class formats, drill new exercise variations, and trade motivational techniques. More experienced teachers can impart wisdom and lessons learned to up-and-comers. This communal approach boosts skills, morale, and ongoing development.

Tip 5: Lead by Example

Want to fast-track your teaching team’s abilities? Lead by example and model stellar instruction yourself! Take classes, maintain flawless form, deliver inspiring cues, and exemplify the phenomenal instructor qualities you want your team to emulate. 

Ensure instructors have opportunities to observe your teaching classes to witness excellence in action regularly. Your commitment to mastering the craft demonstrates the pinnacle instructors should strive toward. Let your energy, passion, and connection with clients set the standard.

Tip 6: Evaluate and Collaborate on Growth Plans

Implementing consistent instructor evaluations and check-ins is crucial for improvement. Gather client testimonials to gain insights into class experiences and teaching effectiveness. Perform regular first-hand class observations focusing on factors like energy, motivation efficacy, pacing, hands-on adjustments, and more. 

Meet one-on-one to review assessments, highlight standout strengths, and discuss opportunities. Collaboratively develop personalized continuing education plans targeting any growth areas. Formalizing this evaluation process facilitates continuous skill development.

Tip 7: Make Training Enjoyable and Bonding

It's also important to balance rigorous training with opportunities for instructors to bond and have fun together. Incorporate training activities like lively group conditioning drills, instructor roundtables over shared meals, and even instructor social gatherings like attending workout conferences together.

This helps build camaraderie and friendship between instructors, leading to better teamwork. Training time shouldn't just feel like work; it should include plenty of laughs, collaboration, and fostering relationships, boosting morale, enjoyment, and ongoing education.

The payoff of investing in your instructors

Whew, that was a lot of tips to digest, but hopefully, it provided a helpful framework for training your instructors! Just remember: prioritizing their continual education, growth and mentorship leads to an empowered, united team fully equipped to motivate clients and help them attain results. And happy, loyal clients are the lifeblood of every studio.

When you wholeheartedly devote yourself to developing talented instructors, they pay it forward by delivering their absolute best to your client's class after class. Making that investment in your teachers yields huge dividends for your entire business. So let's start training and see the incredible instructors you build!