Turn Your Love For Pilates Into a Well Paid Career
with the STOTT PILATES Comprehensive Matwork for Non-Fitness Professionals
Commencing 1 May, 2010- applications close 16 April, 2010
Do you have a passion for fitness or movement? Are you interested in pursuing a Pilates career but have limited knowledge of anatomy and physiology? If so, the new Breathe STOTT PILATES Comprehensive Matwork Course could be the start of a new career for you!
The Breathe STOTT PILATES Comprehensive Matwork course includes everything you'll need to start from scratch and become a certified STOTT PILATES Matwork instructor. The course includes the following modules and materials:
Foundations of Anatomy course module
Advanced Anatomy course module
Analysis of Human Movement course module
STOTT PILATES Intensive Mat Plus (IMP) & Advanced Matwork (AM) course modules
Weekly supervised practice teaching, personal practice and review sessions
The Breathe STOTT PILATES Comprehensive instructor courses are designed for passionate Pilates-ites without previous fitness or health science qualifications. If you have no instructor or exercise teaching experience, and no background in anatomy and physiology, the Breathe STOTT PILATES Comprehensive courses offer you a simple, straightforward study path to an internationally recognised STOTT PILATES teaching certification.
The Breathe STOTT PILATES Comprehensive Matwork course for Non-Fitness Professionals will provide you with the solid foundation you'll need to excel as a certified STOTT PILATES instructor: Beginning with the basics of Functional Anatomy education, and supporting you through your studies as you gain the practical skills and experience required to be a STOTT PILATES certified instructor. Through your course you'll have the opportunity of working with clients for fitness, weight loss, post-rehabiliation, older populations, pregnancy or sports performance in a supervised studio teaching environment.
The Breathe STOTT PILATES Comprehensive Matwork Course has been designed for non-fitness professionals and those who do not meet the criteria for the intensive programmes. However you will be required to have an overall high level of body awareness, and be familiar with the STOTT PILATES Matwork repertoire. The expectation is that you will know what the different exercises are called and broadly speaking, how to perform them.
NOTE: If you are seeking a less intensive, more direct route to achieving STOTT PILATES instructor certification, the various core STOTT PILATES instructor course modules are offered as stand-alone units, to cater for students with some background in fitness, movement science or rehabilitation.
The Breathe STOTT PILATES Comprehensive Matwork Course is broken down into four main sections:
1) Anatomy & Physiology: a) Foundations of Anatomy - This module will provide you with a sound understanding of the fundamental musculo-skeletal anatomy which you will need to master before attempting further studies. The level of detail in the content of this course far-exceeds that in a certificate 3 or 4 in fitness: In addition to anatomy of the human skeletal system, the location, origin and insertion of all major muscles acting on the trunk, hips, knees, ankles, shoulders, elbows and wrists will be examined. There are home-study questions which will require approximately 10 hours of work outside of course contact hours.
b) Advanced Anatomy - This module builds upon the "Foundations of Anatomy" module and together they provide a depth of knowledge and understanding of anatomy that ensures maximum benefit is gained from all future training. In Advanced Anatomy we will be looking at planes of movement, joint actions, different types of muscle actions and the basic biochemistry of muscles. There are home-study questions which will require approximately 10 hours of work outside of course contact hours.
c) Analysis of Human Movement - The ability to analyse human movements is an essential, yet often neglected component of an exercise professional’s education. This practical one-day module starts by explaining a systematic approach to analysis that can be applied to any movement. As the day progresses the examples worked through build in complexity until students are confidently analysing large compound exercises. By the time you have completed this module you should be able to break down any movement into the specific planes of movement, joint and muscle actions and stabilisation. There are home-study questions which will require approximately 10 hours of work outside of course contact hours, and there is an exam on completion of your home study hours.
NOTE: The 3 Functional Anatomy and Physiology modules are split over a period of several weeks, allowing you time for homework, study and revision. We anticipate that for every contact hour spent at these courses you will need to commit two hours of home study.
2) STOTT PILATES Intensive Mat Plus (IMP) and Advanced Mat (AM) Course modules:
This part of the course provides you with the biomechanical principles of STOTT PILATES exercise and their application to the Essential, Intermediate and Advanced level Matwork repertoire. At the end of the course on successful completion of your practical and theory exams, you will be qualified to design and teach Essential, Intermediate and Advanced level STOTT PILATES Matwork classes, integrating small equipment (flex bands, fitness circles, arc barrels etc.) to add variety and to meet specific needs of your clients.
3) Supervised Practice teaching days:
The main aim of the Comprehensive Matwork Course is break down the intensive style education into more manageable chunks. There are weekly supervised practice teaching days, integrated into the course that have been designed to help you achieve many, or all of your required observation and practice teaching hours. These days are here to help you practice the content you covered on the course, ask about issues you have thought about between course dates and to make sure you are on track to passing your exam and becoming a professional STOTT PILATES certified instructor! You can bring in friends, family or your fellow STOTT PILATES students to practice teach on, or simply come in and do your own personal Pilates practice under supervision from a fully certified STOTT PILATES Instructor or Instructor Trainer.
4) Student Clinic/Apprenticeship hours:
Once you have satisfactorily completed the your practice teaching and observation requirements, you will be required to teach 40 hours in the Breathe Student Clinic. The Clinic runs Saturdays 10am-12pm and you will be teaching real, live, actual clients (aka Breathers). You will be working with your clients in a fully equipped, professional studio environment, helping them towards their goals including sport-specific, pregnancy, general wellbeing, weight-loss, post-rehab and older populations, just like a professional situation. During Student Clinic/Apprenticeship hours, you will be supervised at all times by fully certified STOTT PILATES Instructor or Instructor Trainer.
Required Reading:
All of your required reading texts, manuals, DVD's and course notes are included in your course fees. These reference works not only contain all the information you'll need to pass your exam with flying colours; they will accompany you throughout your Pilates career as invaluable professional reference resources.
Musculoskeletal System Anatomy Flash Pack - Bryan Edwards
Skeletal System Anatomy Flash Pack - Bryan Edwards
Muscles; Testing and Function with Posture and Pain - Kendall et. al.
Anatomy and Human Movement: Structure and Function - Nigel Palastanga
Functional Anatomy of Human Movement - Raphael Bender
STOTT PILATES Comprehensive Matwork Manual
STOTT PILATES Support Materials Manual
5 STOTT PILATES Professional Series DVDs: Essential Matwork, Intermediate Matwork, Advanced Matwork, Sculpt and Tone, Fitness Circle Challenge
General Course Objectives:
Learn to apply STOTT PILATES biomechanical principles of core stability, peripheral mobility, breathing and alignment to relevant exercises
Breakdown of Essential, Intermediate and Advanced level exercises
Exercise essence, muscular initiation and movement sequencing
Variations to increase or decrease exercise intensity
Modifications for specific body types, postural issues and conditions
Effective communication, visual skills, verbal cueing and imagery for performance enhancement and client motivation
Following successful completion of the Breathe STOTT PILATES Comprehensive Matwork course you will be able to enrol on the following courses:
STOTT PILATES Intensive Reformer Course STOTT PILATES Injuries & Special Populations Course A variety of STOTT PILATES workshops
Prerequisites:
A informal interview to assess your dedication to the course and your Pilates exposure and experience – this need not be STOTT PILATES, but it would be preferable. It is not expected that you will have knowledge of anatomy and you are not required to have prior teaching experience.
Course Duration:
15 hours of functional anatomy, 46 hours of Pilates instruction with a STOTT PILATES Instructor Trainer (the STOTT PILATES IMP and AM Matwork Course modules), 8 hours of Practice Teaching and Review days, and 40 hours of Student Clinic/Apprenticeship teaching.
All Inclusive Course Fee: $2,935
Your course fee includes 15 hours of anatomy and physiology workshops, all course dates for the IMP and Advanced Matwork courses, 8 hours of supervised practice teaching, 20 hours of supervised Student Clinic work, your exam fee and all course materials, textbooks and DVD's. The course fee can be paid in instalments and if you would like information on this feel free to call our Education coordinator Kylie Mones on 9662 1500 or email education@breathewellbeing.com.au.
"Doing the course has really helped me understand and look after my body better ...my Pilates clasess have taken on a new dimension.."
"Breathe is a piece of heaven on earth. The environment is so tranquil you feel the worries of the day just dissolve away. I need to find a way to spend more time there!! The IMP course was beyond my expectations and Michelle and Raph are fantastic teachers. Their explanations of the movements, the muscle groups and the follow up demonstrations were superb.
Doing the course has really helped me understand and look after my body better, and my 1:1 Pilates class with Raph for a lower back problem has taken on a new dimension now that I know why he makes me do what he makes me do!! I would recommend this course to anyone who has an interest in Pilates - either for personal interest of for a future in Pilates. Raph, Michelle and the whole team at Breathe are welcoming, friendly and happy people - Go on, once you've been once you'll want to spend as much time as possible there too."
Lara McEwan, 32, Lighting Designer
How to become a Pilates instructor
Study options
Depending on where, and how you want to use your Pilates teaching skills, there are 3 main study pathways you can take with Breathe Pilates Education. All the streams start with a common foundation; the Matwork training. The Breathe Comprehensive Pilates Matwork training includes all the fundamental concepts and principles of anatomy, biomechanics, postural theory and exercise analysis, which are built upon in later courses.
Stream 1: Matwork only
Many people choose to do the Comprehensive Matwork as a stand-alone course. Upon completion of the Comprehensive Matwork course, you may choose to sit a certification exam. Successful certification enables you to take insurance and find work in many settings including:
Teaching Pilates Matwork group classes in gyms, community centres, recreation centres, community halls etc.
Working with sports teams or individual athletes to improve performance and prevent injury
Working with Personal Training clients, either in or out of a gym setting. Incorporating Pilates techniques and repertoire into your Personal Training routines allows you to add true core-conditioning to your clients' workouts
Stream 2: Partial Certification
If you want to specialise in a particular area such as teaching group Reformer classes, or working with injured or pregnant clients, then this could be a good option for you. As the Breathe course is modular, you can add extra modules to build your certification into the exact areas that you'll need, without having to study (and pay for) the areas that you won't be using. Being modular, you can also choose to add extra modules at a later date, if you need to; building on the foundations you've already put in place.
Partial certification streams include:
Matwork and Reformer only. This is ideal if you plan on teaching group classes on these 2 apparatus, usually in a group fitness setting.
Injuries and Special Populations: Can be combined either with Matwork, or Matwork AND Reformer. This stream will equip you to work with clients with special needs, using either Matwork exercises alone, or Matwork AND Reformer exercises.
Stream 3: Full Certification
Full Certification is the choice for those wishing to work in a fully equipped Pilates Studio environment. Full Certification can build upon either Stream 1 or Stream 2, and includes Matwork, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair, Barrels and Injuries & Special Populations.
Insurance
For those with existing qualifications in human movement or theraphy such as massage therapists, personal trainers, physiotherapists, exercise physiologists etc,generally your existing insurance can be easily upgraded to include Pilates.
For those without prior qualifications, once you're certified in Pilates (any stream) you have several choices. You'll find them in the Getting Insured section of the Student Resources tab of this page.
Getting ready to find work
Once you're certified and insured, you're ready to find work. Depending on your specialisation and interests, there are various places you can find work, all of which are detailed in the Finding Work section, on the Student Resources tab of this page.
"I was so impressed..."
"Having studied physiotherapy and taught Pilates in Germany, I moved to
Melbourne to further my education, and completed the STOTT PILATES Intensive Mat Course with Michelle at Breathe.
I was so impressed
with Michelle's knowledge and performance of the Pilates technique that
I finished the Intensive Reformer Course as well.
Now, I have plans to take part in the Intensive Cadillac, Chair and Barrels course,
to become a fully trained STOTT PILATES Instructor."
Nicole Bausch, physiotherapist
About STOTT PILATES®
STOTT PILATES® is a contemporary approach to the original exercise method pioneered by the late Joseph Pilates. Co-founders Moira and Lindsay G. Merrithew, along with a team of physical therapists, sports medicine and fitness professionals, have spent more than two decades refining the STOTT PILATES method of exercise and equipment. This resulted in the inclusion of modern principles of exercise science and spinal rehabilitation, making it one of the safest and effective methods available. This clear and detailed approach forms the basis for STOTT PILATES training and certification programs. It’s used by rehab and prenatal clients, athletes, celebrities and everyone in between.”
STOTT PILATES® is one of the largest, most widely recognised and highly respected Pilates systems in the world today. The STOTT PILATES curriculum, equipment and video lines are continually evaluated and updated to ensure they comply with modern exercise science and meet the needs of today's fitness professionals, facility operators and retail clients. The result: instructor training courses that are innovative, versatile and effective.
Our Education division designs contemporary instructor courses that empower our graduates to motivate, challenge and retain clients long-term. Our commitment to maintaining the high standards of our courses is just one of the reasons STOTT PILATES certified instructors are in high demand worldwide, and why many physiotherapists choose and recommend STOTT PILATES instructor training.
When it comes to equipment, we take great pride in the superior design and professional craftsmanship of every piece of STOTT PILATES equipment we use. Used by sports teams, health professionals and fitness facilities around the world, STOTT PILATES equipment is synonymous with quality in the industry.
With more than 120 Professional and At Home instructional video titles in our library, there is a STOTT PILATES program for everyone – from novice to elite athlete. The integrity of our program, the calibre of instruction and the breadth of choice is why millions of people worldwide entrust their mind-body fitness to STOTT PILATES trained and certified instructors.
Whether you are just getting started, want to expand your knowledge or are interested in a complete STOTT PILATES solution for your commercial facility, we look forward to contributing to your success.
Your Breathe STOTT PILATES® instructor certification will be recognized worldwide, and will give you a comprehensive foundation for your Pilates teaching career. Because the course is modular, you can choose to do part (for instance Matwork) or all, so you know what you learn will be relevant to your goals.
STOTT PILATES instructor training and certification programs empower teachers to motivate, challenge and retain clients long term.
Often referred to as the "Ivy League" school of Pilates, STOTT PILATES instructor training provides you with the depth of knowledge and practical programming options to teach effective group or personal training programs to clients of any age or fitness level - from post-rehabilitation patients to elite athletes.
It's just one of the reasons our graduates are in high demand worldwide.
Breathe, South-Eastern Australia's only STOTT PILATES Licensed Training Centre
STOTT PILATES has an extended family of Licensed Training Centres that have been carefully selected to deliver our elite training. Licensed facilities are staffed by STOTT PILATES certified instructor trainers who teach the STOTT PILATES curriculum exclusively on our precision equipment. STOTT PILATES Licensed Training Centers adhere to standards of operation that ensure consistent delivery of our instructor trianing programs and services.
STOTT PILATES instructor training and certification programs are available at numerous locations around the globe, however in Australia your options are somewhat more limited, as there are currently only 2 STOTT PILATES licensed Education facilities. Breathe offers the only STOTT PILATES instructor training courses in Victoria, and is one of only 2 STOTT PILATES Licensed Training Centres (LTC's) in Australia. The other Australian LTC is operated by STOTT PILATES Instructor Trainer Chael Hilton, on the Sunshine Coast of Queensland.
To maintain certification and stay up-to-date on skills and programming techniques, STOTT PILATES has implemented a Continuing Education Credit (CEC) program for all STOTT PILATES certified instructors. All STOTT PILATES workshops qualify for STOTT PILATES CEC's, and many are eligable for credits elsewhere.
STOTT PILATES is recognized by the American Council on Exercise, Can-Fit-Pro,
the College of Massage Therapy of Ontario as a Continuing Education Provider.
All material copyright Merrithew Corporation 2006. All rights reserved. This material, including photographs,
may not be copied or used in any form without express permission from Merrithew Corporation.
Observation, Practice Teaching
and Physical Review Requirements
A minimum number of hours of observation, practice teaching and physical review are required for all instructor training courses and should be completed between instructed sessions at any STOTT PILATES facility. Additional training may be required to prepare for you for your STOTT PILATES instructor certification.
Observation includes watching sessions taught by a STOTT PILATES Certified Instructor or relevant STOTT PILATES videos. Practice teaching hours can be fulfilled by instructing family, fellow students, friends or clients.
A physical review means physically performing the Pilates exercises learned in class. Taking a class with a STOTT PILATES Certified Instructor or working out with a video can qualify as physical review hours, and can be completed individually or with other students.
Practice teaching and physical review hours must be logged outside of class time and submitted at the time of the practical exam.
"It was brilliant! Thanks for the support and encouragement throughout."
"It’s been great working with everyone at Breathe. As I have said before the course surpassed my expectations and I have been really impressed with the thoroughness and professionalism of, not only the course content, but how Michelle and Raphael delivered it to us.
It was brilliant! Thanks for the support and encouragement throughout and now after. Its really great that we can continue to get together and use the studios to get practice and gain confidence. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend the Breathe studios and instructors to my friends and family”
Laura Loosmore – student
STOTT PILATES® Full Certification
STOTT PILATES® Full Certification gives you the edge in employability, skills and confidence.
Fully Certified STOTT PILATES Instructors are in high demand worldwide, as most studios offer clients the full range of apparatus and cater to special needs and injured clients on a daily basis.
Your STOTT PILATES Full Certification is the Gold Standard in the industry; Full Certification provides potential clients and employers with a high degree of assurance, and also arms you with the versatility and confidence you need as a Pilates professional.
STOTT PILATES Full Certification includes all the component instructor courses including (Matwork, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair & Barrels and Injuries & Special Populations), and entitles you to call yourself a Fully Certified (or Level 2 Certified) STOTT PILATES instructor.
STOTT PILATES Full Certification comes at a discount when you pay for your education altogether. The total cost of all the courses that go to make up your Full Certification is $9,770. When you book your full STOTT PILATES certification you'll receive $1,470 discount, so you'll pay only $8,300.
STOTT PILATES® Complete Reformer
This Pilates instructor training course teaches you how to design and instruct Level 1, 2 and 3 (Essential, Intermediate and Advanced) Pilates Reformer workouts in personal or group training settings for a range of clients. Complete Reformer (along with Complete Matwork) forms the foundation of the STOTT PILATES Full Certification course. In addition to the general course objectives, you will learn:
Effective use of the reformer to enhance torso stability and strength, peripheral extremity conditioning, joint stability, flexibility, balance and coordination
How to develop programs for personal and group classes
Essential, Intermediate, Advanced and Power workouts
Effective communication and observational skills, verbal cueing and imagery for performance enhancement and client motivation
Modifications for specific body types, postural issues and conditions
Modifications for variety and intensity for advanced clients
Theory and practice of postural analysis
Exercise layering related to effective program design
In the Advanced Reformer module you'll learn to use the various reformer components and accessories to seriously intensify reformer repertoire and provide a stimulating workout for athletes, dancers, and highly conditioned clients. Exercises in the Advanced repertoire require greater strength, stability and flexibility.
192 exercises plus multiple modifications
Recommended prerequisites
Working knowledge of functional anatomy (equivalent to tertiary level study)
Minimum 30 hours Pilates classes
Three-plus years teaching movement or fitness
STOTT PILATES Complete Reformer course times and duration
50 hours instruction & supervised teaching conducted over 5 weekends:
The Complete Reformer course runs Saturdays 12:30-6pm, Sundays 10am-3:30pm
18 hours instruction Friday-Sunday. Usually scheduled seperately to the Essential and Intermediate repertoire. Check the online schedule for specific dates.
After your Complete Reformer course, prior to your exam we recommend that you complete the following:
Observation – minimum 10 hours
Practice teaching – minimum 25 hours
Physical review – minimum 40 hours
Internationally recognized Certification
Upon successful completion of your IR course, you may refer to yourself as STOTT PILATES trained instructor. You may choose to certify in STOTT PILATES Intensive Reformer™ by taking both a written and a practical exam; upon successful completion of the exam you may refer to yourself as a STOTT PILATES Certified instructor. Exams must be taken within six months of completion of your last STOTT PILATES course. (Please note there is a fee associated with the exam.)
Book today, as this high quality Pilates instructor training course is limited to just 12 students.
TM/® Trademark or registered trademark of Merrithew Corporation, used under license.1546-Awww.stottpilates.com0800.328.5676 U.K.1.800.910.0001 TOLLFREE N.A.416.482.4050 telephone2200 Yonge Street, Suite 500, Toronto, ON, Canada M4S 2C6Instructor TrainingPilates MatworkSTOTTPILATES® International
"STOTT PILATES training has really strengthened my abilities as a personal trainer "
"Studying STOTT PILATES at Breathe Wellbeing has been inspirational. Michelle has a unique ability to impart not only her technical knowledge, but real practical application. I completed both the Mat and Reformer courses, before going on to Injuries and Special Populations (ISP).
I have found STOTT PILATES training has really strengthened my abilities as a personal trainer and not only am I more confident dealing with differences in my clients' body types, but I am getting great feedback from clients.
The ISP course really helped to make things make even greater sense !!!! A big thank you to you again""
Liz Seymon, 38, personal trainer
STOTT PILATES® Injuries & Special Populations™ (ISP)
The STOTT PILATES Injuries & Special Populations
course equips you with the skills required to
address a broad range of physical challenges
among your clients.
STOTT PILATES ISP General Course Objectives
Learn to customize workouts to address your clients' weaknesses, health conditions, postural problems or injuries (but not to diagnose specific injuries). Topics covered in this lecture/demonstration class include:
General approaches to rehabilitating an injured musculoskeletal system
Anatomy and biomechanics, dysfunctions and pathologies, and exercise modifications in the: lumbo-pelvic, cervical, upper quadrant, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, ankle and foot regions
Pregnancy, fibromyalgia and other special conditions
Workout design for injured/special needs clients
Appropriate modification for Matwork, Reformer, Cadillac, Stability Chair and Barrel exercises
STOTT PILATES ISP Prerequisites
Complete Matwork or Complete Reformer
STOTT PILATES ISP Dates and Duration
24 hours instruction over 2 weekends, 9am-4pm Saturday and Sunday.
A minimum deposit of 20% will secure your place, with the balance due 3 weeks before the course.
Book today, as this high quality Pilates instructor training course is limited to just 15 students.
TM/® Trademark or registered trademark of Merrithew Corporation, used under license.1546-Awww.stottpilates.com0800.328.5676 U.K.1.800.910.0001 TOLLFREE N.A.416.482.4050 telephone2200 Yonge Street, Suite 500, Toronto, ON, Canada M4S 2C6Instructor Training Pilates Matwork STOTTPILATES® International
"I have had many teacher
trainers over the last 5yrs ...and I can comfortably
RAVE about Michelle's talent "
"I have recently travelled to Australia to complete a STOTT PILATES training course with Breathe Yoga and
Pilates, and would like to highly recommend both Breathe and my teacher,
Michelle.
Breathe was a very friendly, open, fresh, and enjoyable place to
come to, and the inner city location was FANTASTIC. I have had many teacher
trainers over the last 5yrs for courses, and workshops, and I can comfortably
RAVE about Michelle's talent as both an instructor and teacher trainer.
Her
knowledge of functional anatomy, the STOTT repertoire, her clear and precise
instruction, and very evident love of what she doe's, all made for a very very
enjoyable course. I firmly believe that the strength or weakness of your
instructor trainer will directly affect you, and your future teaching
abilities. So I would very much like to thank you Michelle as I have gained
many, many teaching tips from you that I hope will greatly improve my teaching
technique for my clients, and my overall knowledge of the STOTT PILATES
repertoire. I look forward to joining another course with you one day soon.”
STOTT PILATES ICCB prepares you to teach Level 1 (Essential and Intermediate) exercises on the Cadillac (Trapeze Table), Stability Chair, Ladder Barrel, Spine Corrector and Arc Barrel. By the end of this course you will be able to fine-tune personal and circuit training programs to meet a variety of clients' conditioning goals. Beyond the general course objectives, you will learn:
Effective use of equipment to enhance torso stability and strength, peripheral extremity training, joint stability, flexibility, balance and coordination
How to develop dynamic programs in a full studio environment
Effective communication and observational skills, verbal cueing and imagery for performance enhancement and client motivation
Modifications for specific body types, postural issues and conditions
295 exercises plus multiple modifications
STOTT PILATES CCB Prerequisites
Complete Matwork & Complete Reformer
STOTT PILATES CCB Duration
Total 62 hours contact time over a series of Saturdays and Sundays. The ICCB course runs Saturdays 12:30-6pm, Sundays 10am-3:30pm. The Advanced component (ACCB) is 12 hours over 2 days, Saturday 12:30-7pm and Sunday 10am-4:30pm. The CCB course is modular, and you can choose to do individual components (just Cadillac, just Chair, or just Barrels) or a combination (such as Cadillac plus Chair), or you can complete the whole ICCB course.
After your CCB course, prior to your exam we recommend that you complete the following: Observations 20hrs
Physical Review 35hrs
Practice Teaching 25hrs
Total: 80 hours
A minimum deposit of 20% will secure your place, with the balance due 3 weeks before the course.
Book today, as this high quality Pilates instructor training course is limited to just 12 students.
TM/® Trademark or registered trademark of Merrithew Corporation, used under license.1546-Awww.stottpilates.com0800.328.5676 U.K.1.800.910.0001 TOLLFREE N.A.416.482.4050 telephone2200 Yonge Street, Suite 500, Toronto, ON, Canada M4S 2C6Instructor Training Pilates Matwork STOTTPILATES® International
"Logical, practical, and generally made sense. Lots of info; fun inclusive, non-confrontational."
Karen Shroder, 43, General Manager
"Great Delivery of a complex topic"
"The most valuable content of the training was Raphael's delivery and consistent reiteration of the information, along with his sense of humour: Great delivery of a complex topic. Thanks Raph"
Claudia Grimster, Yoga Instructor
"Really Valuable"
"Well paced and just thorough enough. The most useful part was discussing each and every muscle and it's function/location. Raph was knowledgeable and humerus (ha ha ha)."
Jessica Parker, 27, Personal Assistant
"Fantastic - It all hit the spot"
"I did the Functional Anatomy course because I wanted to understand the success I have had using Pilates to balance my body. The course clarified, formalised, and deepened the knowledge I have developed intuitively and through questions, in the course of rehabilitative sessions at Breathe. If I could change one thing about the course, it would be to have a week of it to really soak it all up."
Heath Lander, 36, Teacher
"Great Delivery of a complex topic"
"The most valuable content of the training was Raphael's delivery and consistent reiteration of the information, along with his sense of humour: Great delivery of a complex topic. Thanks Raph"
Claudia Grimster, Yoga Instructor
"Excellent"
"Thanks so much for the course. I found it very useful and liked the practical application of teh learnings. Raph was fabulous - extremely knowledgeable, engaging, not a snob and quite funny."
Choe Quinn, PA(and aspiring Yoga instructor!)
"Fabulous. Very Engaging and Interesting."
"A lot to take in, but great to have the handbook and resources to continue learning. The most valuable part was actually trying to practice our skills on each other - VERY helpful to find bony landmarks on other people. Raphael was knowledgeable and thorough."
Jazz Oakley, Pilates Instructor
Functional Anatomy for Course
Gain a solid grounding in Anatomy, physiology and biomechanics
OR...
Who should do the course:
The Breathe Functional Anatomy course is ideal for students, teachers or coaches of any movement discipline including Yoga, martial arts and sports, and is the perfect preparation for the STOTT PILATES Comprehensive Matwork and Comprehensive Reformer courses. It's also great if you want to understand your own body better, and improve your own Pilates or Yoga practice through greater awareness and a solid theoretical grounding.
What you'll learn:
During the course, you’ll build a solid foundation in functional anatomy and physiology, and gain confidence in understanding how the human body moves, generates force and supports itself through daily tasks (biomechanics).
This 3-day course totals 15 hours of intensive instruction covering the following subjects:
Day 1: Foundations of Musculoskeletal Anatomy
Learn to communicate and understand the precise language of anatomy – including terminology for position, direction of movement, planes of motion, joint actions and names, origin and insertion of muscles, and their function.
Planes of motion
Positional and directional terms
Major joints, and the actions available to them
Muscle groups, and specific muscles that cause joint actions
Day 2: Advanced Anatomy
Basic muscle chemistry
Different muscle fibre types, and practical implications for training
Active and passive insufficiency in muscles
Types of muscle contraction; practical differences and implications for training
Deep stabiliser function, importance, difference from Global muscles
Optimal conditions for increasing core activation
Day 3: Movement and Posture Analysis
You'll learn how to "read" movements, and analyse any human movement to uncover the muscle and joint actions that are taking place. You’ll cover the basics of postural theory; and how to apply theory to movement.
Basic postural theory
Basic Muscle Testing
Assessing Static Posture
Dynamic postural assessment
Introduction to applied biomechanics
Introduction to muscle physiology, and it's application to training
Overview of stretching techniques
Introduction to trigger point techniques for muscle release
Movement assessment
Course Format:
The course is a combination of visual/lecture style presentation, with practical exercises (individual and partner) and observation.
How to Book
Bookings are required to be finalised, with full payment 14 days prior to the start of the course.
If you'd like more information, or to make a booking for the Functional Anatomy Course, call our Education coordinator Kylie Mones on 9662 1500 or email education@breathewellbeing.com.au ,or click on the link below to email us your enquiry.
Exam Preparation
About STOTT PILATES instructor certification
Why Certify?
To show clients & employers you are a qualified professional. At the finish of each STOTT PILATES instructor training course that you attend, you'll receive a letter of completion and continuing education credits from STOTT PILATES. At this stage you will be able to say that you are a STOTT PILATES trained instructor. Only once you have successfuly completed your STOTT PILATES practical and theory exams can you call yourself a STOTT PILATES certified instructor.
To get insured. Most insurers will only insure certified instructors, and those that will insure non-certified instructors will charge more for the same insurance.
To get work. Many employers specify a particular level of certification for all applicants, so until you're certified you won't even be in the race for a lot of jobs out there.
To improve your knowledge and skills. The process and yes, the pressure of studying for your exam will push you to learn more effectively, and more fully your course material, and to practice your teaching more, than before. Quite simply you will become a better instructor, more quickly, by undergoing the certification process. That's why most employers prefer certified instructors.
To acheive STOTT PILATES certification, you'll need to to successfully complete a STOTT PILATES instructor training course, plus a written exam and practical exam. Exam material is cumulative so you can certify in stages by taking an exam after each course or after a series of courses, e.g. You can certify in Matwork alone, if you wish to start working immediately after your Matwork course. Instructors certified in Matwork, who wish to certify for Reformer, must take a combined Matwork and Reformer exam. This also applies to students certified in Reformer who wish to move on to CCB or Full certification.
Please note that exams must be taken within six months of the last STOTT PILATES instructor training course completed, and that for each exam you undertake, you'll need to pay an exam fee. Successful completion of STOTT PILATES Matwork; Reformer; Cadillac, Chair & Barrels; Advanced Repertoire; ISP instructor training courses and exams are required for STOTT PILATES Full Certification.
About STOTT PILATES CEC's (Continuing Education Credits)
Why maintain my STOTT PILATES instructor certification?
Credible Pilates instructor certification is becoming increasingly important to employers, insurance companies and consumers. Australian industry bodies APMA and Pilates Alliance agree that to ensure long-term sustainability and better service the public, the Pilates industry will soon need to make certification mandatory, and indeed to become a member of either APMA or the Pilates Alliance, you'll need to be certified.
STOTT PILATES instructor Certification is well respected in the fitness industry because of our high education standards and our mission to stay on top of new research and industry advancements.
How many CEC's do I need to earn each year?
Annual completion of 0.6 CECs (6 hours) is required to maintain any level of STOTT PILATES certification. Up to 0.2 credits (2 hours) may be approved for exercise science and related workshops, such as the Breathe Functional Anatomy course.
How soon after I receive my certification will I have to start earning annual CEC's?
Every student has one full calendar year to earn their credits, beginning January 1st, the year following successful completion of your exam. For example, if you successfully complete your exam(s) in July 2008, your first CEC period begins January 1, 2009 and ends December 31, 2009. CECs are earned every year on the calendar year (Jan-Dec). CECs are not transferable from one year to another.
How can I earn my STOTT PILATES CEC's?
You can complete your STOTT PILATES CECs through any combination of the following:
Attend a STOTT PILATES workshop or presentation at a trade show, Licensed Training Center (such as Breathe), Hosting site, or at the STOTT PILATES Corporate Training Center in Toronto, Canada.
Complete a customized repertoire review with a STOTT PILATES Instructor Trainer.
Complete a teaching evaluation with a STOTT PILATES Instructor Trainer.
Take an anatomy, biomechanics, exercise physiology or other exercise science course or workshop. If this is a non-STOTT PILATES course it must be petitioned. A maximum of 0.2 CECs can be earned this way. The petition fee is US $10 | $13 CDN. Only one petition can be submitted per year.
Study a STOTT PILATES video and submit for evaluation a VHS video (NTSC or PAL) of yourself teaching a selection of the subject matter to a client. DVDs are accepted but must be recorded on a brand name DVD (e.g. Sony). All DVDs must be MacIntosh compatible. A 15-minute segment should be submitted per video (e.g. watch three videos, submit a 45-minute long video to earn 0.3 CECs).
What to expect in your STOTT PILATES instuctor exam
What will I be asked to do in my practical exam?
Time Allotment
The time allotment for each practical exam is as follows: Matwork Level 1: 60 minutes Matwork Level 1&2: 70 minutes Reformer Level 1: 60 minutes Reformer Level 1&2: 70 minutes Mat & Reformer Level 1: 90 minutes Mat & Reformer Level 1&2: 100 minutes Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair & Barrels Level 1: 120 minutes Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair & Barrels Level 1&2: 140 minutes
Time allotments are strictly adhered to, and your time-management skills will be tested in the practical exam, as there's a lot to get through. To get top marks, you'll need to cover everything fully. Below is the suggested breakdown of your exam time allotment, including the maximum possible marks for each section of the Practical exam:
Client History and Goals: 2 minutes. You'll need to establish whether the client has any relevant medical information to share, what the clien'ts exercise history is, whether they have done Pilates before, and what their goal for the session is. There are no marks for this section, but you'll need the information you gather here, in order to garner maximum marks for the Stated Focus of the Workout.
Postural analysis: 10 minutes. You'll need to systematically and comprehensiveley analyse the client's posture, noting any deviations and specifying the likely muscle length/strength imbalances which relate to each deviation. Use of precise anatomical terminology is encouraged. The postural analysis section is worth 5 marks.
Stated focus of workout: 8 minutes. This section is worth 5 marks. Combining all you have learned from the Client History and Posture Analysis, you'll create a general workout plan which emphasises ALL of the significant postural deviations you noted in the Posture analysis, as well as the client's goals for the session. In order to receive top marks for this section, you'll need to specify the shape of your chosen workout including:
Which of the Basic Principles you'll be especially focussing on during the workout, specific to this client's posture, history and goals
Which muscles you'll be focussing on strengthening/lengthening
Any form deviations you'll be looking out for, with regard to the above
Which props you may expect to use to facilitate better form, or increase challenge
What modifications you may expect to use, with regard to the above
The Five Basic Principles: 10 minutes: taught separate of the Warm Up in Matwork and applied to all the exercises. You'll need to clearly articulate the what, the why and the how of each principle in order to receive your full 5 marks for this section. For a comprehensive breakdown of all the information you'll need to cover in your teaching of this section, click through to The 5 Basic Principles of STOTT PILATES.
What is the principle - What will the client be doing, when they are correctly executing the principle? This should be a clear, short and concise statement. i.e. "Your scapulae will sit flat on your ribcage and glide freely without winging or anterior tipping" for the Scapular Mobility and Stabilisation principle
Why is the principle important - What are the benefits in general, and specific to this client of doing the principle correctly. This should be a longer list, using specific anatomical terminology where appropriate, of all the potential benefits to clients in general, and to this client specifically
How does the client do the principle - Illustrate correct execution of the principle with 1 or 2 exercises i.e. Pelvic Rocking and Imprint & Release for the Pelvic Placement principle. Cue the client into correct execution of the principle, and apply any props as required to attain ideal alignment and tension free starting position. Use a combination of tactile, anatomical and imagery based cues in all exercises
The Workout: The balance of your exam will be spent on working the subject out. For a precise breakdown of the time requirements, and the number of exercises you'll be required to teach for each exam, see the Workout Requirements for Practical Exams section below.
During the workout section of your exam, you'll be graded out of 5 marks for each of the following categories:
Teaching manner and energy (attitude, motivational, verbalisation skills). Guiding your client with control, developing a rapport with your client, motivating and encouraging the client, keeping the client focused on the task at hand.
Ability to cue: Using a combination of imagery, verbal cues, and tactile cues will garner top marks. Your cues will help guide your client through the exercises and transitions, cues should be specific to your client - i.e. your cueing throughout the workout, will closely relate to the stated focus of the workout, including reinforcment of Basic Principles, expected form deviations and muscular emphasis for each exercise.
Ability to correct: Anticipation, and observation of form errors, based on stated focus of workout and Basic Principles. Effective use of imagery, verbal cues, and tactile cues to help your client achieve correct alignment and proper execution of exercises; knowledge from course(s) to achieve dynamically stabilised, conscious and safe movement.
Knowledge of content, knowing the relevant repertoire of exercises and the corresponding starting positions, movement and breath patterns.
Exercise progression and rationale for the exercises chosen, applying adaptations and modifications as necessary.
Rhythm and pace of the workout: Successful completion of all the required material in the allotted time. Fluidity, using transitions from one exercise to another, choosing a pace that challenges the individual without compromising the Five Basic Principles or causing overexertion, and cueing in a manner that encourages proper timing of movement and breath.
Workout requirements for Practical Exams
Below are the requirements for each exam. The minimum number of exercises specified, is the number you'll need to teach in order to be eligable for full marks in the rhythm and pace of the workout category. Teaching exrte
Matwork Exam
Following the postural analysis and Five Basic Principles you will guide your subject through a 40 minute workout that combines Essential and Intermediate level exercises.
Level 1: Minimum eight Essential, four Intermediate exercises in 40 minutes. (60 minutes total for the exam; 20 minutes will be required for Postural Analysis, Stated Focus and 5 Principles).
Combined Levels 1 & 2: Minimum eight Essential, four Intermediate & four Advanced exercises in
It is important to incorporate Fitness Circle® resistance ring and Flex-Band® exerciser and possibly Arc Barrel into the workout.
Reformer Exam
Following the postural analysis and Five Basic Principles you will guide your subject through a 40–50 minute workout that combines Essential and Intermediate level exercises.
Level 1: Minimum six Essential, four Intermediate exercises. Combined Levels 1 & 2: Minimum six Advanced exercises (in addition to above).
Mat & Reformer Exam
Following the postural analysis and Five Basic Principles you will guide your subject through a 70–80 minute mat and reformer workout that combines Essential and Intermediate level exercises.
You are allotted approximately 30 minutes for matwork exercises and 40–50 minutes for a reformer workout. For the matwork portion, it is important to incorporate Fitness Circle resistance ring, Flex-Band exerciser and possibly the Arc Barrel into the workout.
Level 1: Matwork – minimum six Essential, three Intermediate exercises.
Reformer – minimum six Essential, four Intermediate exercises. Combined Levels 1 & 2: Matwork – minimum three Advanced exercises (in addition to above). Reformer – minimum four Advanced exercises (in addition to above).
Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair & Barrels Exam
Following the Postural Analysis and Five Basic Principles you will guide your subject through a workout for the remaining 1 hour and 40 minutes to 1 hour and 50 minutes that combines Essential and Intermediate level exercises.
You are allotted approximately 20 minutes for matwork exercises and approximately 30 minutes for a reformer workout. For the matwork portion, it is important to incorporate Fitness Circle resistance ring, Flex-Band exerciser and possibly the Arc Barrel into the workout.
The remaining 50 to 60 minutes are dedicated to a workout using the Cadillac (15 minutes), Stability Chair (15 minutes), Ladder Barrel (10 minutes), Spine Corrector (5 minutes), and Arc Barrel (5 minutes) that combines Essential and Intermediate level exercises.
Level 1:
Matwork - minimum four Essential, three Intermediate exercises
Reformer - minimum six Essential, three Intermediate exercises
Cadillac - minimum two Essential, two Intermediate exercises
Stability Chair - minimum two Essential, two Intermediate exercises
Ladder Barrel - minimum one Essential, one Intermediate exercise
Spine Corrector - minimum one Essential, one Intermediate exercise
Arc Barrel - minimum one Essential, one Intermediate exercise
Combined Levels 1 & 2 – the following must be done in addition to the above requirements:
Matwork – minimum three Advanced exercises
Reformer – minimum three Advanced exercises
Cadillac – minimum two Advanced exercises
Stability Chair – minimum two Advanced exercises
Ladder Barrel – minimum two Advanced exercises
Spine Corrector – minimum one Advanced exercises Arc Barrel – minimum one Advanced exercise
Level 2 – Practical Only
You do not need to do a postural analysis, Stated Focus of the Workout or Five Basic Principles. Your "body" will be someone who is capable of performing at an Advanced level.
The test is designed in this way to evaluate the depth of your understanding of the exercises and how to relate them to your subject. Fitness Circle, Flex-Band and Arc Barrel should be incorporated into the matwork portion.
The Advanced Matwork exam should be no longer than 30 minutes and include: at least six Advanced exercises after a brief warm up.
The Advanced Reformer exam should be no longer than 30 minutes and include: a brief warm up and approximately nine Advanced exercises.
The Advanced Matwork & Reformer repertoire exam should be no longer than 45 minutes and include: a brief warm up on the mat, approximately three Advanced exercises on the mat and nine Advanced exercises on the reformer.
The Advanced Matwork, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair & Barrels exam should be 1 hour long and include: a brief warm up on the mat, approximately two Advanced Matwork exercises, six Advanced Reformer exercises, four on the Cadillac, two on the Chair, two on the Ladder Barrel, one on the Arc Barrel and one on the Spine Corrector.
Important General Info About All Exams
We will provide a subject for your exam (your "body"). The subject will be capable of doing the required exercises safely.
The time allotted for the workout portion of the exam will not allow for the completion of all exercises in the full repertoire. You must ensure that the exercises chosen represent a well-rounded workout that address all aspects of movement (i.e. flexion, extension, rotation, etc.) and cover the required number of Essential, Intermediate or Advanced exercises, while being appropriate to your subject.
Your examiner may ask you to teach only 2-3 repetitions of some, or all exercises, and may question you during the exam, regarding your rationale for exercise choice, props, modifications, cueing or breath pattern. You may also be "spot checked"; the examiner may ask you to teach several exercises from the repertoire, chosen at random to test your knowledge of the material.
What is the best preparation for the practical exam?
In addition to fully understanding the material conceptually and physically reviewing the exercises, the best preparation for the practical exam is the practice teaching of as many different people as possible (family, friends, classmates) to apply your knowledge, adapt it to many different body types, improve your teaching skills, and become comfortable with your teaching experience. Practice teaching within the specified timelines and meeting at least the minimum number of exercises.
Great ways to practice include:
Verbally cueing yourself through a workout, as if talking a client through it. So you perform the exercises as you cue yourself, out loud, verbally.
Taking a friend through a workout at home, or at Breathe. As a Breathe STOTT PILATES student you have access to all of our equipment and studio spaces outside of class times. Call reception on 9662 1500 to book your studio time.
Supervised practice teaching. As part of the Comprehensive courses, we offer a weekly Supervised Practice Teaching session, where you can bring a friend, family member or fellow student to practice on, under the supervision of a fully certified STOTT PILATES instructor or instructor trainer. To enquire about Supervised Practice Teaching call our STOTT PILATES education coordinator Kylie Mones on 9662 1500 or email education@breathewellbeing.com.au
Student Clinic - Once you have completed your minimum practice teaching and observation requirements, and you have been signed off as sufficiently competent by your practice teaching supervisor, you may become a student instructor in the Breathe Student Clinic. As a student instrctor you'll see actual clients with injuries, sport specific goals, pregnancy and generaly wellbeing goals. You'll work under the close supervision of a fully certified STOTT PILATES instructor or instructor trainer, developing invaluable real-world experience working one-on-one with real clients. There is no charge to participate in student clinic sessions, but you'll need to commit to a minumum number of hours teaching at the clinic.
Theory (written) Exam requirements
The written exam consists of 50 multiple choice, 4 fill-in-the-blank or matching type questions, and 25 muscle identification questions. It will take you approximately 2–3 hours to complete the exam. However, you are not required to finish within a specified time limit.
The exam tests your knowledge of the following:
Muscle origin, insertion and action (please refer to list of muscles in the Mat & Reformer Support Materials book)
Recognition of diagrams of individual muscles
Concentric, eccentric and isometric contractions of specific muscles during particular movements and exercises
Movements that make up exercises and their proper anatomical descriptions
Order of Essential and Intermediate Mat workout (Matwork, Matwork & Reformer or Mat, Reformer, & CCB exam)
Order of Essential and Intermediate Reformer workout (Reformer, Matwork & Reformer or Matwork, Reformer, & CCB exam)
Ideal postural alignment and groups of opposing muscles
Poor postural alignment and muscular imbalances
Modifications to exercises for poor postural alignments or additional challenge
Programs to accommodate poor postural alignments
Proper set up of equipment, starting positions, movement patterns, and major intent or goal for each exercise
Five Basic principles – anatomical descriptions and purpose
Proper anatomical terms must be understood and used in all the relevant categories above.
How long do I have to complete my STOTT PILATES instructor training course exam?
You must take your exam within six months of completing your last STOTT PILATES instructor training course. We encourage you to take some time afterward to practice and synthesize the information prior to taking the exam; however, you are welcome to take the exam immediately after you complete the course if you and your STOTT PILATES Instructor Trainer agree you are ready.
When you feel you are ready to take your exam, it can be a good idea to book a 1:1 exam prep session with an Instructor Trainer, to fine-tune your study and make sure you achieve the absolute best mark possible.
What is the miniumum pass mark for the STOTT PILATES instructor certification exam?
You must receive an average score of 80% (practical and written) AND achieve a minimum score of 75% on each portion in order to pass.
Both of these requirements must be met in order to achieve STOTT PILATES instructor certification.
How long does it take to receive notification of my STOTT PILATES instructor Exam results?
Exam results will be sent directly to you, normally by email. Breathe and/or the Instructor Trainer will also be informed of the marks. Marking takes between four to six weeks from the date of the exam.
What if I don't pass my STOTT PILATES instructor Exam?
If you fail one portion of the exam on the initial test, you must retake that portion within six months of the original exam. If the six-month time limit has passed you must take both the written and practical again.
If you fail both portions of the exam, you have one more opportunity, within six months, to successfully pass the exam. If you fail both portions the second time, you must wait six months before retesting.
If you have to retake a part, or the entire exam, this should happen within six months of the date of the original exam. This ensures that the information remains relatively fresh, and allows time to study and improve in the necessary areas. If this time limit has passed, it is highly recommended that you book private study with an Instructor Trainer.
Exam Fees
Mat only - $300
Reformer only - $300
Mat plus Reformer - $350
Mat plus Reformer plus Cadillac, Chair and Barrels - $400
Advanced only (any apparatus) - $300
Study Aids
Anatomy and physiology - recommended texts
We recommend you have a solid understanding of musculoskeletal anatomy and physiology, (equivalent to tertiary level anatomy studies) in order to get the most out of your course.
If you haven't studied anatomy formally, you can self-educate prior to your course with some well-chosen reading. Recommended texts are listed below. You can also attend the Breathe Functional Anatomy course, which is designed specifically to be the perfect preparation for your STOTT PILATES instructor course, and includes everything you'll need to know, including comprehensive course notes.
Recommended texts are listed below. We recommend China Books in nearby Swanston Street Melbourne. China Books offer a 15% discount to Breathe STOTT PILATES instructor students on all recommended texts.
Trail Guide to the Body: How to Locate Muscles, Bones, and More ~ Andrew R. Biel
This acclaimed and user-friendly book is designed as a hands-on tour that will teach you to palpate the body's structures with ease and precision.
Muscle Flash Cards ~ Bryan Edwards
The Muscle Flash Cards present a unique study approach of repetition that aids the student's ability to recall pertinent information relating to the muscular system. The flash cards illustrate every functional muscle from the shoulder girdle down, denoting the origin, insertion, action, innervation, and synergist. This title also includes two-color illustrations, terminology, and definitions of movement.
Bone Flash Cards ~ Bryan Edwards
The Bone Flash Cards are designed to guide the student through the skeletal system. Each bone is illustrated in the body from head to toe, and every significant bony landmark is defined. This set of cards also includes a special chapter on joints and ligaments, and the innervation, movement, and arterial supply are denoted for each.
Anatomy and Human Movement ~ Nigel Palastanga
Featuring full-colour illustrations, this classic text is written specifically for physiotherapy students studying human anatomy, and is standard required reading in first year of many health science and biomedicine degrees worldwide. Accompanying the text are fantastic online resources for students and lecturers.
Anatomy and physiology - online resources and references
All the basic anatomy and physiology you'll need to know for your Matwork or Reformer course, and a great reference for use during the course.
Get Bodysmart.com - Quick Reference for muscle anatomy
http://www.getbodysmart.com A fantastic quick reference for muscle anatomy, insertion/origins and actions. Has great diagrams, so really good if you're a good visual learner.
Innerbody.com - More Detailed Reference for muscle anatomy
E-Hand.com - Muscles of the hand, arm and shoulder girdle
http://www.eatonhand.com/mus/mus132.htm. Has some great information on muscles of the hand, arm and shoulder girdle. You can search by joint action to find the muscles you need.
Joseph Pilates Original Method vs. STOTT PILATES approach
Joseph Pilates originally called his system of exercise Contrology. There are 2 main differences between Joseph's original method (which is still practiced today, in the form of Classical Pilates), and the STOTT PILATES approach.
Straight spine vs Neutral Spine
Joseph Pilates believed that the ideal alignment for the human spine was a perfectly straight line, and designed his system of exercises to help achieve what he thought of as being perfect alignment. He based his thinking on the observation that babies and young children have straight spines, and he concluded that this was the ideal alignment of the human spine, which gradually becomes compromised into a curved shape as we get older. We now know that this is not the case:
In the 100 years since Joseph Pilates originated his system of exercise, medical and scientific understanding of the human body has progressed considerably. With the advantages of modern medical imaging technology, in-vitro stress testing of spines, x-ray flouroscopic images of athletes' spines in real-time as they perform lifts and muscle EMG studies, we know that a straight spine is not ideal for an adult human. Rather a spine with 3 natural curves (also called a "neutral" spine) provides optimal weight bearing and shock absorption. The neutral spine has a gentle convex anterior curve, also know as a lordosis in the lower spine (Lumbar x) and the neck (Cervical x); the middle and upper back (Thoracic x) has a gentle convex posterior curve, also known as a kyphosis in ideal alignment.
In STOTT PILATES we emphasise working in a neutral spinal alignment where possible, rather than trying to achieve a perfectly straight spine.
Pilates Principles
In line with our modern understanding of human physiology and biomechanics, the STOTT PILATES principles of movement have been adapted and updated from Joseph Pilates original principles. The STOTT PILATES 5 Basic Principles retain the essence of the original Pilates principles, whilst accomodating the most current medical understanding of human movement science.
Joseph Pilates' original principles:
1. Centering: Physically bringing the focus to the center of the body, the powerhouse area between the lower ribs and pubic bone. Energetically, Pilates exercises are sourced from center.
2. Concentration: If one brings full attention to the exercise and does it with full commitment, maximum value will be obtained from each movement.
3. Control: Every Pilates exercise is done with complete muscular control. No body part is left to its own devices.
4. Precision: In Pilates, awareness is sustained throughout each movement. There is an appropriate placement, alignment relative to other body parts, and trajectory for each part of the body.
5. Breath: Joseph Pilates emphasized using a very full breath in his exercises. He advocated thinking of the lungs as a bellows -- using them strongly to pump the air fully in and out of the body. Most Pilates exercises coordinate with the breath, and using the breath properly is an integral part of Pilates exercise.
6. Flow: Pilates exercise is done in a flowing manner. Fluidity, grace, and ease are goals applied to all exercises. The energy of an exercise connects all body parts and flows through the body in an even way. Pilates equipment, like the reformer, are very good mirrors of one's flow and concentration as they tend to bang around and suddenly become quite "machine-like" if one loses ones control and flow.
I've finished my STOTT PILATES training... what now?
Do I have to sit my exam before I start teaching?
You don’t have to complete your exam before you start to teach classes and clients, however it is very highly recommended that you have insurance for yourself before you put yourself out there. Many gyms require you to have your own insurance & have your Senior First Aid certificate. Some also stipulate that you must hold a Certificate IV in Fitness instruction.
Where do I go for my first aid training?
To get insurance and begin working, you'll need a Senior First Aid certificate (sometimes called Level 2 First Aid). To complete your Senior First Aid certificate there are many places that offer it as a 1 day course in conjunction with an online theory component. A few suggestions are:
Our recommendation for Pilates Instructor Insurance is through a company called AON. Follow the link below to AON's Allied Health brochure and proposal form:
Finding work as a STOTT PILATES certified instructor
Job search strategies
Once you decide to put yourself out there, you’ll benefit from doing some networking; knowing who’s in your area & making yourself known.
Visit local gyms, physiotherapists and neighbouring Pilates studios, introduce yourself & hand out your resume.
Offer to teach a staff class to show them what you’re all about.
Make yourself available for last-minute fill ins at all your local studios: studio owners with a class full of students and no instructor, WILL call you.
Now that you’re STOTT PILATES ® certified you’ll be amongst the most highly sought after instructors! It’s actually quite easy to find work, as there is a lot of demand for good instructors.
Join the Breathe Pilates Instructor Job Mailing List
As a STOTT PILATES education provider, we often receive calls from studios wanting instructors; email your details to us at education@breathewellbeing.com.au, and we’ll put you on our mailing list for new jobs, and let you know when anything comes up.
Online job-seeking resources
You'll find Pilates jobs advertised on the following websites:
How much Anatomy and Physiology knowledge will I need?
Before you begin your first STOTT PILATES Instructor course, we recommend the equivalent of a tertiary level anatomy and physiology course.
Options if you haven't studied anatomy formally:
You can self-educate prior to your course with some well-chosen reading. Recommended texts are listed below.
You can attend the Breathe Functional Anatomy course, which is designed specifically to be the perfect preparation for your STOTT PILATES instructor course, and includes everything you'll need to know, including comprehensive course notes.
Recommended texts are listed below. We recommend China Books in nearby Swanston Street Melbourne. China Books offer a 15% discount to Breathe STOTT PILATES instructor students on all recommended texts. If you choose to do the Comprehensive Matwork course, all the texts below are included in your course fee, so don't rush out and buy them!
Trail Guide to the Body: How to Locate Muscles, Bones, and More ~ Andrew R. Biel
This acclaimed and user-friendly book is designed as a hands-on tour that will teach you to palpate the body's structures with ease and precision.
Muscle Flash Cards ~ Bryan Edwards
The Muscle Flash Cards present a unique study approach of repetition that aids the student's ability to recall pertinent information relating to the muscular system. The flash cards illustrate every functional muscle from the shoulder girdle down, denoting the origin, insertion, action, innervation, and synergist. This title also includes two-color illustrations, terminology, and definitions of movement.
Bone Flash Cards ~ Bryan Edwards
The Bone Flash Cards are designed to guide the student through the skeletal system. Each bone is illustrated in the body from head to toe, and every significant bony landmark is defined. This set of cards also includes a special chapter on joints and ligaments, and the innervation, movement, and arterial supply are denoted for each.
Anatomy and Human Movement ~ Nigel Palastanga
Featuring full-colour illustrations, this classic text is written specifically for physiotherapy students studying human anatomy, and is standard required reading in first year of many health science and biomedicine degrees worldwide. Accompanying the text are fantastic online resources for students and lecturers.
I'm coming to Melbourne from overseas; how do I get a visa?
The two options for Visas for the STOTT PILATES courses are as follows; this information is suitable for students travelling to Melbourne for either workshops or the intensive courses.
You can find more information on Australian Visa requirements at on the Department Of Immigration And Citizenship website at www.immi.gov.au
How do I get to Breathe from Melbourne (Tullamarine) airport?
Melbourne CBD is very accessible from the airport. Taxis are available from the ground floor level of Melbourne Airport, outside the International Terminal and both domestic Terminals. Expect a taxi fare of around A$40 between the CBD and Melbourne Airport. Skybus offers a shuttle bus service from the airport to Melbourne CBD and city hotels. Buses run every 10-15 minutes throughout the day and every 30-60 minutes overnight. Adult one way tickets cost $16 / $26 return.
Where can I stay nearby?
There are many places to stay in Melbourne CBD close to Breathe Wellbeing Pilates and Yoga. We have included some suggestions for various preferred styles and budgets. These hotels are all within five minutes walk of the studio. Cheaper accommodation can often be found 15 minutes out of the CBD and the studio is very accessible by public transport. For a comprehensive list of hotels, apartments, Bed and Breakfasts and hostels, please go to http://www.visitmelbourne.com/
Quest Hero On Russell
140 Little Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000, Australia
Melbourne is a very easy city to get around on public transport, especially the CBD and inner suburbs. There is a fantastic network of trams and trains to take you in, out and around. Breathe Yoga and Pilates is conveniently located in the heart of the CBD, close to countless tram routes.http://www.metlinkmelbourne.com.au/
Do I need to pay for my STOTT PILATES instructor training course when I reserve my place?
Because each STOTT PILATES course is limited to only 12 participants (15 for ISP)), your place will be confirmed when we receive your 20% deposit.
When do I need to book by?
Because the courses are limited to only 12 people on a first-come-first-served basis, we recommend you book as early as possible to make sure you get into your chosen STOTT PILATES instructor training course.
Do I get notes that I can keep?
Yes, every STOTT PILATES instructor training course includes a comprehensive set of course materials including hardcopy full colour manuals and DVD's for you to keep. We recommend that you bring pen and paper if you want to add further notes.
Where can I get STOTT PILATES DVDs and equipment?
The best place is our Australian distributor www.onlinepilates.com.au . They stock all the STOTT PILATES DVDs and small equipment like Toning balls, Flexbands, BOSUs etc. as well as professional Reformers, Barrels etc.
Will I “workout” during my STOTT PILATES instructor training course?
Yes, all STOTT PILATES instructor training courses are participatory. You will need comfortable clothes you can move in; no shoes are needed. Mats and all equipment is provided
Anatomy Self-Test
STOTT PILATES courses require you to have a strong understanding of human anatomy and movement. To test whether your current knowledge of anatomy is adequate to ensure that you get the most from your STOTT PILATES course, you can try the self-test below. The test relates to the knowledge you will need to successfully complete your STOTT PILATES instructor training.
We recommend that if you achieve 25 or more correct answers from this test, your knowledge of anatomy and physiology is sufficient for you to enjoy the full benefits of any Breathe STOTT PILATES instructor training course. If you acheive 24 or less correct answers, you should consider some serious self-education, or taking our Functional Anatomy course, which is designed specifically to equip you with all the skills and knowledge you'll need in your STOTT PILATES instructor training.
1. What are the 2 actions of the Rectus Femoris muscle?
2. Name the six deep lateral rotators of the hip joint
3. Name the 3 major muscles that flex the shoulder joint
4. What is the action of the infraspinatus muscle?
5. In which direction do the fibres of Transversus Abdominis run?
6. What does the term "distal" mean?
7. In an eccentric contraction, what are the muscle fibres doing?
8. In the anatomical reference position, which way are the palms facing?
9. The head of the humerus articulates with which structure (that is part of the scapula)?
10. Name the 4 major muscles that extend the hip joint.
11. Name the 3 major muscles that laterally rotate the knee joint.
12. Name the 2 ball and socket joints in the human body.
13. Which muscle orinates on the inferior lip of the scapular spine and inserts into the deltoid tubercle of the humerus?
14. Name the 2 actions of the Gluteus Medius Muscle
15. Name the 5 major muscles that adduct the Femur
Anmarie
Section 2: Advanced Anatomy and movement analysis
16. Hip flexion takes place in which plane of movement?
17. Which of the 3 major medial rotators of the hip joint is also a flexor of the hip joint?
18. In the picture of Amnarie, what postion are her ankles in?
19. Starting from a neutral anatomical position; moving into the position pictured, involved which actions at the following joints:
a) hip
b) knee
c) shoulder
20. In the previous question, which muscles will be contracting eccentrically at the hip joint during the downward phase of the squat?
21. In the previous 2 questions, assuming neutral spine is maintained, how will the Lumbar erector spinae be working on:
a) the downward phase of the squat
b) the upward phase of the squat
22. What is the position of Anmarie's scapulae?
23. When moving with control, from the position pictured to the anatomical position, what action will occur at the shoulders, and will it be concentric, eccentric or isometric?
24. In moving from the position pictured to the anatomical position (whilst maintaining neutral spine), what will be the action of the Internal Obliques?
25. In the position pictured, the rhomboids and middle fibres of trapezius will be working to prevent which action at the shoulder girdle?
26. In the position pictured, which muscles are holding the head and neck in place against gravity?
27. In the image, what is the position of Anmarie's pelvis?
28. Which muscles are working isometrically to maintain the position of Anmaries pelvis against posterior tilt?
29. Which muscles are contracting isometrically to maintain Anmarie's knees in flexion?
30. Specify whether each of the following is a first, second or third class lever
a) Pair of scissors
b) Wheelbarrow
c) Brachialis flexing the elbow joint
d) A pair of tweezers
31. Do you agree with Anmarie's choice of outfit for her workout session?
Answers
1. Hip flexion 7 Knee extension
2. Piriformis, Gemellus inferior & superior, Obturator inernus & externus, Quadratus femoris
3. Biceps brachii, Pectoralis major (clavicular fibres), Deltoid (anterior fibres)
4. Lateral rotation of the humerus
5. Horizontally
6. In a direction away from the axial skeleton
7. Lengthening as they contract
8. Forwards
9. Glenoid Fossa
10. Gluteus maximus, semimembranosus, semitendinosus, biceps femoris
11. Biceps femoris, Tensor fascia lattae, Gluteus maximus
12. Hip and Shoulder
13. Deltoid (posterior fibres)
14. Hip abduction and medial rotation
15. Adductor longus, adductor magnus, adductor brevis, pectineus, gracilis
16. Sagittal plane
17. Tensor Fascia Lattae
18. Dorsiflexion
19. a) Flexion b) Flexion c) Flexion
20. Gluteus maximus, semimembranosus, semitendinosus, biceps femoris
21. a) Isometrically b) Isometrically
22. Upwardly rotated
23. Eccentric shoulder extension
24. Isometric
25. Protraction
26. Cervical Erector Spinae, Trapezius (upper fibres), Levator Scapulae
27. Neutral
28. Lumbar extensors (multifidus, iliocostalis, longissimus, spinalis), Hip flexors (psoas, iliacus, rectus femoris, tensor fascia lattae, sartorius, pectineus, adductor longus)
29. Quadriceps (Vasus lateralis, vastus intermedius, vastus medialis, rectus femoris)
30. a) First class lever b) Second class lever c) Third class lever d) Third class lever
31. Her shorts are too short, and her top does not flatter her complexion
Upcoming Course Dates and Prices
All course days include half hour lunch break.
Please note that registrations close 14 days prior to the start date of each course. To secure your place, you'll need to complete registration and payment before this date.
Comprehensive Matwork Dates - Weekend Format:
Saturday 30 January 2010, 12:30-6pm (Intensive Mat Plus)
Sunday 31 January 2010 10am-3:30pm (Intensive Mat Plus)
Saturday 6 February 2010, 12:30-6pm (Intensive Mat Plus)
Sunday 7 February 2010 10am-3:30pm (Intensive Mat Plus)
Saturday 20 February 2010, 12:30-6pm (Intensive Mat Plus)
Sunday 21 February 2010 10am-3:30pm (Intensive Mat Plus)
Saturday 27 February 2010, 12:30-6pm (Intensive Mat Plus)
Sunday 28 February 2010 10am-3:30pm (Intensive Mat Plus)
Sunday 14 March 2010 10am - 4:30pm (Advanced Matwork)
Closing Date for Registrations (Weekend Format course) Saturday 23 January 2010
Those who prefer to "get it all done quickly" can enroll in the consecutive day format of the course
Comprehensive Matwork Dates - Consecutive Days Format:
Monday 15 February 2010 10am-12pm and 2:15pm-5:15pm (Intensive Mat Plus)
Tuesday 16 February 2010 10am-12pm and 2:15pm-5:15pm (Intensive Mat Plus)
Wednesday 17 February 2010 10am-12pm and 2:15pm-5:15pm (Intensive Mat Plus)
Thursday 18 February 2010 10am-12pm and 2:15pm-5:15pm (Intensive Mat Plus)
Friday 19 February 2010 10am-12pm and 2:15pm-5:15pm (Intensive Mat Plus)
Monday 22 February 2010 10am-12pm and 2:15pm-5:15pm (Intensive Mat Plus)
Tuesday 23 February 2010 10am-12pm and 2:15pm-5:15pm (Intensive Mat Plus)
Wednesday 24 February 2010 10am-12pm and 2:15pm-5:15pm (Intensive Mat Plus)
Thursday 25 February 2010 9am-12pm and 2:15pm - 5:15pm (Advanced Matwork)
Closing Date for Registrations (Consecutive Day Format course) Monday 1 February 2010
Comprehensive Matwork Cost
$2935 includes all required course texts (all the texts on the recommended reading list), all required DVD's all required STOTT PILATES manuals, 8 supervised practice teaching hours, 40 supervised Student Clinic hours, and Exam fee.
Complete Reformer Dates
Saturday 10 April 2010 12:30-6pm (Intensive Reformer)
Sunday 11 April 2010 10am-3:30pm (Intensive Reformer)
Saturday 15 May 2010 12:30-6pm (Intensive Reformer)
Sunday 16 May 2010 10am-3:30pm (Intensive Reformer)
Saturday 19 June 2010 12:30-6pm (Intensive Reformer)
Sunday 20 June 2010 10am-3:30pm (Intensive Reformer)
Saturday 10 July 2010 12:30-6pm (Intensive Reformer)
Sunday 11 July 2010 10am-3:30pm (Intensive Reformer)
Saturday 31 July 2010 12:30-6pm (Intensive Reformer)
Sunday 1 August 2010 10am-3:30pm (Intensive Reformer)
Friday 13 August 2010 9am-12pm and 2:15pm-5:15pm (Advanced Reformer)
Saturday 14 August 2010 12:30pm-7pm (Advanced Reformer)
Sunday 15 August 2010 10am-4:30pm (Advanced Reformer)
Closing Date for Registrations Saturday 3 April 2010
Complete Reformer Cost
$3,850 includes all required DVD's all required STOTT PILATES manuals, supervised practice teaching hours, Student Clinic hours and Exam fee.
Injuries and Special Populations ISP (Consecutive Day format)
Injuries & Special Populations Dates
Monday 21 June 2010 9am-12pm and 2:15pm-5:15pm
Tuesday 22 June 2010 9am-12pm and 2:15pm-5:15pm
Wednesday 23 June 2010 9am-12pm and 2:15pm-5:15pm
Thursday 24 June 2010 9am-12pm and 2:15pm-5:15pm
Closing Date for Registrations Monday 14 June 2010
Injuries & Special Populations Cost
$1495 includes all STOTT PILATES manuals and DVD's
Foundations of Anatomy course module
