Good form equals results, and results equal motivation. This is a simple formula for fitness success. Acquiring good form may take time, but it is the only route to safe, optimal results. For years I have had opportunity to teach in group exercise rooms with mirrors, and also in outdoor environments and rooms without them. I have come to believe that it is extremely important for exercisers to understand what proper form feels like. I believe the feeling is more important than visual cues as this creates more of a lasting mind/body connection for the exerciser. If one can feel proper form with exercise, than one can perform exercise properly just about anywhere.
Many exercisers, despite thinking they are doing exercises correctly, use improper form even while staring directly into mirrors. They seem to tune-out what the fitness instructor's verbal instructions are. If they were actively listening, they would easily spot the disconnect between their form and the instructor's verbal cues. Exercise participants learn differently, so to enhance your own exercise experience, improve body awareness, intelligence and integration, then try using as many senses as possible. Put special emphasis on listening and paying close attention. Avoid complacency and remember that you can almost always learn something new.
How little we listen was driven home to me the other day when a new class participant of mine did not listen to my early advice to "pace yourself", "listen to your body" or observe beginning level exercise modifications. I wasn't surprised when she started to feel sick mid-class. Even certain long-time class participants of mine sometimes "flirt" with improper form despite many hours of exercise experience behind them. Even if taking the same class for twenty years, strive for 100% concentration and effort. Pay close attention to your instructor and look, listen and feel your way through every exercise. Your instructor wants you to get a good workout, but also to keep you safe and injury free. Remember that you are all about optimal results, so speed along to excellent results via proper form and technique.
