I’ve always taken notes by hand both when I am observing or planning my own classes. There is something about putting pen to paper that helps me become more centred, draws my focus in and helps me visualise how each movement will flow into the next.

This method was so essential to my learning, especially in my teacher training when I was observing a class. It would help me see the ebbs and flows, the highs and lows of my mentors teaching and made me see the storey of the class unfold not just the individual exercises.

So it’s not surprising then that there is science to back this up. Some of the key benefits of taking notes by hand include;

1. You will develop a stronger conceptual understanding and have more success in applying and integrating the material than those who take notes on their laptops. So next time you’re watching a class on Pilatesanytime make sure you take some notes of your favourite exercises!
2. Stimulates both sides of the brain and increases creativity
3. Better for short term and long term memory recall

Check out the below research and articles if you're keen to learn more.

Association of Psychological Science

Scientific America