printer
friendly version FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What
is the Alexander Technique?
It
is a simple and practical methods for improving ease and freedom of movement,
balance, flexibility and co-ordination.
How
do I know if the AT will help me?
I
suggest that a person with no experience of the AT comes for an introductory
lesson or workshop. Usually after that experience it will be apparent if the
AT is appropriate for them.
How
long does a lesson last?
A
first lesson lasts an hour, subsequent lessons forty-five minutes.
What
happens in a lesson?
The
AT teacher will use a combination of very gentle hands-on guidance and verbal
instruction to give the pupil an experience of moving and performing activities
in a different way. back to top
What
should I wear?
Wear,
warm loose clothing like a tracksuit. Layers are best - definitely not anything
tight.
How
much does it cost?
Fees
for individual lessons vary from teacher to teacher. Some teachers can offer
concessionary rates. Group classes and workshops are usually run by organisations
like Adult Education departments and these set their own rates.
Can
anyone learn AT?
Yes,
provided they are motivated to change. But it is not a quick fix, so expect
progress to be gradual.
What
is the difference between group and individual lessons?
Group
classes are an inexpensive way of finding out about the AT. Later on it is a
way of maintaining one's contact with AT and of learning and observing other
people and experiences. However, if you have a chronic condition or are in a
lot of pain or have a very specific interest such as playing an instrument or
acting, it would make sense to have individual lessons. back
to top
How
many lessons will I need to have?
It
depends on why you have come. Plan to have at least between six and eight lessons
over a three-month period as an introduction. If you have a chronic problem
or want to apply it to a specific activity you will need more lessons, in which
case plan to have between twenty and thirty.
Can
I learn it from a book?
Most
AT teachers and authors would say no. As with other skills you may as well need
to practise under supervision and over a period of time because you are learning
something unfamiliar.
Will
I be given exercises to do?
Not
as such - instead you will learn to apply the principles of AT to any activity
you do.
Does
the AT improve your posture?
Alexander
teachers don't claim to improve your posture directly, although it may improve
as a side effect. The alignment and balance of the body is corrected as the
functioning of the individual improves.
Where
can I learn it?
Look
up the STAT or ATI teaching lists for qualified teachers. As well as giving
individual lessons, they may also know of group classes or workshops. back
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