"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.”
Please note that Lindsay and I co-founded STOTT PILATES over 20 years ago. Our old messaging has been leading people to believe that I have done this alone. But the truth is that Lindsay’s undeniable creativity, perseverance and work ethic behind building our company, products and services, is what has made the STOTT PILATES brand what it is today. It is his hard work and determination that has led to the creation (and success) of STOTT PILATES training, Certification, manuals, DVDs and equipment.
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.
"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
General Course Objectives
Your STOTT PILATES® instructor training course provides you with the balanced and thorough blend of theory, observation and
practical experience you'll need to excel as a Pilates professional.
Confidence as an instructor comes not just from mastery of the Pilates repertoire; to give your client the best results you need to truly understand the essence and objectives of each exercise, as well as how to program appropriate, safe and effective exercises for different clients. You'll learn all this in your STOTT PILATES instructor training course at Breathe.
In each STOTT PILATES instructor course at Breathe, you'll learn:
How to apply STOTT PILATES biomechanical principles of core stability, breathing and alignment to all exercises
A complete breakdown of each exercise
Exercise goals, muscular initiation and correct movement sequencing for optimal function
Multiple modifications to increase or decrease exercise intensity for different clients
Modifications for specific body types and postural issues
How to recognize optimal and less than optimal movement patterns, and how to help your client improve their movement patterns
A variety of Pilates programming options to keep your clients (and you) motivated
Effective communication and teaching skills including verbal cues, tactile cues, visual cues and imagery for performance enhancement and client motivation
"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.
"I have had no problem finding myself Pilates teaching jobs at two studios, within a month of completing the courses!."
"I completed the STOTT PILATES Intensive Mat Course earlier this year and enjoyed it so much, I went on to complete the STOTT PILATES Intensive Reformer Course and the Injuries and Special Populations Course! The Instructor Trainer, Michelle, taught so well and kept us all interested the whole way throughout the courses. Her knowledge of Pilates is excellent and she and all the other friendly staff at Breathe Wellbeing were always there to assist.
Despite my non-fitness background, I have had no problem finding myself Pilates teaching jobs at two studios, within a month of completing the courses! I have no doubt that I will be completing other Stott Pilates Courses at Breathe Wellbeing in the near future."
Melissa Ling, 28, Pilates instructor
STOTT PILATES® Complete Matwork Module
Every Pilates instructor career starts with a strong foundation in Matwork. When you choose to do this internationally recognized STOTT PILATES instructor training course at Breathe Yoga & Pilates in Melbourne, you’ll build your Pilates repertoire from the ground up.
STOTT PILATES IMP is a stand-alone course module that will provide you with the solid foundation and the skills that you will need, to develop effective and motivating group and personal Pilates sessions. Your STOTT PILATES IMP course will teach you to design and teach the Level1 (Essential and Intermediate) Matwork repertoire,including the use of small props to add variety and meet the specific needs of your clients.
Complete Matwork (along with Complete Reformer) forms the foundation for the STOTT PILATES Full Certification course.
Your STOTT PILATES certification is recognized and respected worldwide. For more information about STOTT PILATES go to www.stottpilates.com
In STOTT PILATES Complete Matwork you will learn:
Theory and practice of postural analysis
Workout composition for personal and group training
Essential,Intermediate, Advanced & Power workouts
Flex-Band,Fitness Circle and Arc Barrel 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
How to incorporate resistance equipment to support or intensify exercises
Exercise layering related to effective program design
76 STOTT PILATES Matwork exercises plus multiple modifications for variety and intensity
You’ll learn how to teach your clients body awareness, how to modify for different posture types and client needs, as well as how to sequence and cue for a smooth, safe and effective Pilates class.
STOTT PILATES Complete Matwork course times and duration:
Total 40 hours contact time over a series of Saturdays and Sundays.
The Complete Matwork course runs Saturdays 12:30-6pm, Sundays 10am-3:30pm:
After your Complete Matwork course, prior to your exam we recommend that you complete the following:
Observation – minimum 10 hours
Practice teaching – minimum 15 hours
Physical review – minimum 30 hours
STOTT PILATES Advanced Matwork duration
6 hours instruction in one day, usually scheduled 2-3 weeks after the completion of the initial course component. See the online schedule for specific dates.
Internationally recognized Certification
Upon successful completion of your STOTT PILATES Complete Matwork instructor training course, you may refer to yourself as "STOTT PILATES trained"; You may certify in STOTT PILATES Complete Matwork by taking both a written and a practical exam. Upon successful completion of your 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 instructor training 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 Matwork STOTTPILATES® International
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.
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
A minimum deposit of 20% will secure your place, with the balance due 3 weeks before the course.
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 ICCB Prerequisites
Complete Matwork & Complete Reformer
STOTT PILATES ICCB Duration
Total 50 hours contact time over a series of Saturdays and Sundays. The ICCB course runs Saturdays 12:30-6pm, Sundays 10am-3:30pm. The ICCB 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 ICCB course, prior to your exam we recommend that you complete the following:
Minimum 10 hours observation
Minimum 40 hours physical review
Minimum 25 hours practice teaching
Total: 125 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
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:
Anatomy and physiology - online resources and references
Here's a list of great sites you can use for quick-reference:
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.
STOTT PILATES® certification shows clients and employers that you are a well-qualified professional. At the conclusion of each STOTT PILATES instructor training course, you receive a letter of completion and continuing education credits. STOTT PILATES certification is awarded upon successful completion of a STOTT PILATES instructor training course plus a written 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. students certified in Matwork must take a combined Matwork and Reformer exam should they wish to subsequently certify in Reformer. This also applies to students certified in Reformer who wish to move on to CCB certification.
Please note that exams must be taken within six months of the last STOTT PILATES instructor training course completed and that there is a fee associated with each exam. 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.
Continuing Education Requirements (CEC's) for STOTT PILATES Certified Instructors
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.
Exam and Continuing Education FAQ's
What will I be asked to do for my practical exam?
The time allotment for each practical exam is as follows:
Matwork – 1 hour
Reformer – 1 hour
Mat & Reformer – 1.5 hours
Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair & Barrels – 2 hours
The initial 5 to 10 minutes of the exam are dedicated to information gathering. You are required to ask your subject pertinent questions regarding history, physical condition and goals.
For the postural analysis portion of the exam, you are required to analyze the subject from both sides, front and back view, using visual observation AND palpation, verbally relaying your findings to the examiner. You are also required to give a general description of your planned workout including: what muscles / muscle groups will be targeted, what alignment issues will be addressed and what props or modifications may be necessary.
For the next 5–10 minutes you will take your subject through the Five Basic Principles in proper sequence, using clear imagery and movement cues to help the subject properly achieve biomechanical body awareness. You must clearly explain why each of the principles is important.
The remainder of the practical exam is dedicated to taking your subject through an appropriate workout. The following areas will be evaluated:
Postural analysis.
Stated focus of the workout.
Five Basic Principles: taught separate to the Warm Up on the Matwork and applied to all the exercises.
Teaching manner and energy (attitude, motivational, verbalization skills). You are guiding your subject with control and develop a rapport with your subject.
Ability to cue: use of imagery, verbal cues, and kinesthetic cues (touch) to aid in guiding your subject through the exercises and transitions, cues should specific to your subject and be a combination of muscular and tactile cues and imagery to achieve movement to incorporate and reinforce all basic principles.
Ability to correct: use of imagery, verbal cues, and kinesthetic cues (touch) to ensure correct alignment and proper execution of exercises; knowledge from course(s) to achieve dynamically stabilized, conscious and safe movement.
Knowledge of content; knowing the relevant repertoire of exercises and the corresponding movement and breath patterns, minimum number of exercises for each piece and level.
Exercise progression and rationale for the exercises chosen, applying adaptations and modifications as necessary.
Rhythm and pace of the workout: 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, the workout fits the required amount of time for the exam.
Matwork 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 eight Essential, four Intermediate exercises Combined Levels 1 & 2: Minimum four Advanced exercises (in addition to above)
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 exercises
Level 2 – Practical Only
You do not need to do a postural analysis, stated workout focus or Five Basic Principles. Your subject should 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
The subject for the exam (your "body") will be capable of doing 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.
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.
What do I need to know for my written (theory) exam?
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 specific 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)
aIdeal postural alignment and groups of opposing muscles
Poor postural alignment and muscular imbalances
Modifications to exercises for poor postural alignments
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.
Why maintain my STOTT PILATES instructor certification?
Credible Pilates instructor certification is becoming increasingly important to employers, insurance companies and consumers. In fact, experts agree that to ensure long-term sustainability and better service the public, the fitness industry will eventually need to make certification mandatory. 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.
Why have a Continuing Education Credit (CEC) Program?
The STOTT PILATES instructor CEC Program was developed to provide all Certified Instructors and Instructor Trainers with ongoing learning opportunities to keep your skills current and maintain a high quality of education. In addition, this will help you stay abreast of the latest advancements in exercise science and the STOTT PILATES repertoire.
How many CEC's must I earn annually?
STOTT PILATES Certified Instructors are required
to obtain six hours (0.6 credits) of STOTT PILATES CECs annually to maintain their Certification.
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 complete 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).
How long do I have to complete my STOTT PILATES instructor training course examination?
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.
What is a passing score 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.
What will I be asked to do in my practical exam?
The time allotment for each practical exam is as follows:
Matwork – 1 hour
Reformer – 1 hour
Mat & Reformer – 1.5 hours
Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair & Barrels – 2 hours
The initial five to ten minutes of the exam are dedicated to information gathering. You are required to ask your subject pertinent questions about their history, physical condition and goals for the session.
For the postural analysis portion of the exam, you are required to analyze the subject from both sides, front and back view. Using visual observation AND palpation, verbally relaying your findings to the examiner. You are also required to give a general description of your planned workout including: what muscles / muscle groups will be targeted, what alignment issues will be addressed and what props or modifications may be necessary.
For the next five to ten minutes you will take your subject through the Five Basic Principals in proper sequence, using clear imagery and movement cues to help the subject properly achieve biomechanical body awareness. You must clearly explain why each of the principles is important.
he remainder of the practical exam is dedicated to taking your subject through an appropriate workout. The following areas will be evaluated:
Postural analysis.
Stated focus of workout.
The Five Basic Principles: taught separate of the Warm Up in Matwork and applied to all the exercises.
Teaching manner and energy (attitude, motivational, verbalization skills). You are guiding your subject with control and develop a rapport with your subject.
Ability to cue: use of imagery, verbal cues, and kinesthetic cues (touch) to aid in guiding your subject through the exercises and transitions, cues should specific to your subject and be a combination of muscular and tactile cues and imagery to achieve movement to incorporate and reinforce all basic principles.
Ability to correct: use of imagery, verbal cues, and kinesthetic cues (touch) to ensure correct alignment and proper execution of exercises; knowledge from course(s) to achieve dynamically stabilized, conscious and safe movement.
Knowledge of content, knowing the relevant repertoire of exercises and the corresponding movement and breath patterns, minimum number of exercises for each piece and level.
Exercise progression and rationale for the exercises chosen, applying adaptations and modifications as necessary.
Rhythm and pace of the workout: 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, the workout fit the required amount of time for the exam.
What do I need to know for my Written Examination?
The written exam consists of multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank or matching type questions, and 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 Matwork/Reformer Support Materials book)
Recognition of diagrams of individual muscles
Concentric, eccentric and isometric contractions of specific muscles during specific movements and exercises
Movements that make up exercises and their proper anatomical descriptions
Order of Essential and Intermediate Matwork (Matwork, Matwork & Reformer or Matwork, Reformer, & CCB exam)
Order of Essential and Intermediate Reformer (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
Programs to accommodate poor postural alignments
Proper set up of equipment, starting positions, movement patterns, and major intent or goal for each exercise
The Five Basic Principles – anatomical descriptions and purpose
Proper anatomical terms must be understood and used in all the relevant categories above.
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 have to retake a portion of 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 but 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.
If you take your exam for the first time and fail both portions, 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 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.
How much will it cost me to do the STOTT PILATES instructor Exam?
Mat only - $300
Reformer only - $300
Mat plus Reformer - $350
Mat plus Reformer plus Cadillac, Chair and Barrels - $400
Advanced only (any apparatus) - $300
STOTT PILATES® instructor training course FAQ
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. Here's a quick quiz that you can do to check your expertise (In a neutral alignment, answers are located inferiorly and anteriorly to the questions):
Define the following types of muscular contraction; Concentric, Eccentric, Isometric
Define the 3 planes of movement for the human body
Define the following terms; Lateral, Medial, Superior, Inferior, Anterior, Posterior
Name the major muscles which extend the hip joint
Name the 6 abdominal muscles
Name the 6 deep lateral rotators of the hip joint
Answers:
Concentric - the muscle shortens as it contracts. Eccentric - the muscle lengthens as it contracts. Isometric - the muscle maintains an unchanging length as it contracts
Lateral - away from the midline of the body. Medial - towards the midline of the body. Superior - Above/higher. Inferior - below/lower. Anterior - towards the front of the body. Posterior - towards the back of the body
Gluteus maximus, hamstrings
Rectus Abdominis, Right and Left Internal Oblique, Right and Left External Oblique, Transversus Abdominis
Piriformis, Gemellus Inferior and Superior, Obturator Internus and Externus, Quadratus Femoris
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/
How much anatomy and physiology knowledge will I need for my STOTT PILATES instructor course?
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:
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
About STOTT PILATES
Anatomy and physiology - recommended texts
