Comprehensive Global Program

Equip for a new career

The BASI Pilates Comprehensive Teacher Training Program gives students in-depth knowledge of Pilates theory, exercises, and skills to teach advanced-level clients on the Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Ladder Barrel, F2 Spine Corrector, F2 Arm Chair, Ped-a-Pul, Mat, and other auxiliary apparatus.

Graduates of the Comprehensive Program are well equipped for a successful, enduring career in the Pilates industry and are qualified to take the Pilates Method Alliance (PMA) exam to become a Nationally Certified Pilates Teacher (NCPT).

12 Modules

Upon completion of all 12 modules, students are eligible to pursue a Comprehensive Pilates teaching certificate.

Module 1 - The Fundamentals
Primary concepts covered include the 10 movement principles of the Pilates method, an overview of the pelvic region, Pilates breathing, a historical overview of Pilates, the BASI approach, and the importance of safety when teaching Pilates. In addition, the repertoire includes fundamental Mat and Reformer exercises.
‍Includes a one-hour Mat class.

Module 2 - Anatomy Overview Part 1
Primary concepts covered include an anatomy and terminology overview: major bones, muscles, joints, bony landmarks, and center of gravity. In addition, the importance and practice of cueing are discussed. Repertoire covers fundamental Reformer, intermediate Mat, Pole, and Ped-a-Pul.
‍Includes a one-hour Mat class.

Module 3 - Anatomy Overview Part 2
Primary concepts covered include the BASI system of movement analysis, exercise physiology, and aerobic/anaerobic exercise. The BASI format of teaching is discussed and the BASI Pilates® Block System, created by Rael Isacowitz, is introduced. Repertoire taught is intermediate Mat, Reformer and exercises with Leg Weights.
Includes a one-hour Mat class

Module 4 - Posture Assessment
The primary concepts covered are the principles of alignment and posture assessment. Discussion includes exercise as a tool for assessment. Repertoire taught includes intermediate through advanced Mat, intermediate Reformer, and fundamental Cadillac.
Includes a one-hour Mat class.

Module 5 - Core Strength: Back & Abdominals
‍Primary concepts covered are core strength and the relationship of the various muscle groups that make up the core, focusing on the abdominals and the back extensors. Contraindications, effective exercises, and the importance of understanding your client’s needs and body type are discussed. Also addressed are the role of the teacher and the importance of flow in a session. Repertoire taught includes advanced Mat, intermediate Reformer, and Arm Chair.

Module 6 - Exercise Adaptation
Primary concepts include an in-depth look into exercise adaptation and the use of assists and modifications. The lecture focuses on how to construct a complete and comprehensive program. Repertoire taught is advanced Mat, intermediate Reformer, fundamental Wunda Chair, and Magic Circle. A general review of the repertoire is conducted and the online Written Examination is available at the end of the program.‍

‍Module 7 - Muscle Balance and Imbalance
Primary concepts covered include the meaning of balance and the implications of imbalances in strength and flexibility. Lecture focuses on functional exercises, movement patterns, neuromuscular re-education, and muscle testing. Repertoire taught includes intermediate and advanced Reformer, Wunda Chair, and Cadillac.

Module 8 - The Lower Limbs
Primary concepts covered include the hip joint, the knee joint, and the ankle-foot complex. The gait cycle is discussed and analyzed. Repertoire taught is intermediate Reformer, Wunda Chair, and Cadillac.

Module 9 - The Shoulder
Primary concepts covered are the structure and function of the shoulder region, the shoulder joint, muscles of the shoulder, and the importance of correct shoulder mechanics. The lecture includes how to work with clients with shoulder problems and recognizing the scope of practice. Repertoire taught is intermediate Reformer, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, and an introduction to the Ladder Barrel and Spine Corrector.

Module 10 - Program Design Principles
Primary concepts covered include the principles of training, such as overload, specificity, and reversibility. Components of physical fitness are addressed and analyzed. The lecture includes repertoire levels and how they relate to working with a broad range of clientele. Repertoire taught is advanced Reformer, Wunda Chair, and Cadillac.

Module 11 - Specific Populations, Part 1
Primary concepts covered are habitual movement patterns, cross-training, imbalances, and setting goals. The athletic population is looked at closely. The lecture focuses on teaching methodologies. Repertoire taught includes intermediate- and advanced-level work on both Ladder Barrel and Spine Corrector.

Module 12 - Specific Populations, Part 2
Primary concepts covered are based on populations with restrictions and an in-depth look at pregnancy guidelines. The lecture includes teaching men and women different body types, as well as objectives and approaches. A general review of the repertoire is conducted, and the Final Written Exam is available to students online after completion of the Graduate Program.