COURSE OBJECTIVE (16 HOURS)

• Teach the basic principles of musculoskeletal anatomy
• Understand the basic structure and function of bones, joints, muscles, tendons and ligaments
• Identify bony landmarks
• Understand joint structure and joint movements
• Learn the origin insertion and action of the major muscles of movement.
• Teach basic exercises for each muscle group.

COURSE OBJECTIVE (16 HOURS)

The movement principles course includes five sections:

• Whole Body Movement
• Trunk Integration
• Lower Body Training
• Upper Body Training
• Mobility and Restoration

Prerequisite

The movement principles course includes five sections:

MAT I – Introduction to Pilates & Beginning/Intermediate Exercises

Mat I includes an introduction to the history and principles of Pilates, a review of core anatomy, beginning and most intermediate level exercises with modifications, lectures on class order and programming in a fitness setting and guidelines for safely teaching seniors and pre- and post-natal classes.

MAT II – Intermediate/Advanced Exercises

Mat II includes the remaining intermediate and advanced level exercises as well as essential movement principles and training tips for advancing clients to higher levels. Pilates for sports-specific activities is also covered. To become a fully qualified Balanced Body University Mat Instructor, students must complete the following:

• Anatomy
• BBU Mat Coursework, written and practical test (16 hours)
• BBU Mat Coursework, written and practical test (16 hours)
• 25 Personal Sessions
• 45 Mat Student Teaching Hours

Total hours for completion of Mat program: 102 hours

Upon completion of all the requirements, a certificate of completion as a Balanced Body University Mat Instructor will be issued. Note: The final practical exam for the Mat training is included in Module 2 unless separate arrangements are made.

MAT III – Enhanced Pilates Mat Class + Props

Enhanced Pilates Mat completes the mat training by adding rings, rollers, bands, and balls to the traditional Mat exercises. In addition, Enhanced Mat includes functional exercises for the upper and lower body, expanding the Mat work beyond the core to develop whole-body strength and flexibility. The Balanced Body programming system is introduced to make class design easy, effective, and fun. Adding props to a mat class makes them more dynamic, creative, and accessible, and clients love toys!

Modules: Reformer I, Reformer II, Reformer III

The Pilates Reformer is an extraordinarily flexible piece of exercise equipment, allowing resistance and support for exercises involving every part of the body. Our program gives you a thorough understanding of how to use the Reformer to develop core and extremity strength, stability, flexibility, coordination, and balance.

Reformer I – Reformer 1 and Pilates Movement Principles

Prerequisites:

• 1 year of experience teaching movement
• Anatomy
• 20 Pilates Reformer classes

This course introduces the Universal Reformer, the centerpiece of the Pilates equipment studio and an invaluable training tool. Reformer 1 includes an introduction to safely using the Pilates Reformer for a wide variety of supine, seated, and standing exercises for beginning to intermediate students. Movement Principles include improving lower body alignment, creating balanced muscle development, and learning a protocol for effectively training the upper body.

Reformer II – Intermediate Exercises

Prerequisites:

• Reformer class I
• Movement Principles

Reformer II includes intermediate exercises and modifications designed for group and individual instruction. Teaching successful classes and sessions to clients at different levels of ability is emphasized. Included are a variety of programs designed to keep your clients inspired.

Reformer III – Advanced Exercises & Sport-Specific Programs

Prerequisites:

• Reformer II

Reformer III includes advanced exercises plus modifications for sports-specific activities, tips for training the advanced client, and key exercises for advancing a client.

Prerequisite:

Reformer III or Reformer certificate

The Balanced Body Trapeze Table/Cadillac/Tower training provides a thorough introduction to Trapeze Table and Tower exercises as well as applications for beginning, post-rehabilitation, and advanced clients. This training is appropriate for students working with the Allegro® or Allegro 2 Tower of Power®, Half Trapeze, and Wall Tower, as well as those working with full Trapeze Tables. Sequencing programs using multiple pieces of equipment are covered, as well as equipment setup, safety, and maintenance.

Pilates Barrels Instructor Training includes exercises and variations for the Step Barrel and Ladder Barrel. The Step Barrel and Ladder Barrel are excellent tools for enhancing spinal mobility and core strength. The Ladder Barrel is most commonly used in a studio setting while the Step Barrel is a great addition to group classes.

Pilates Chair Instructor Training includes exercises and variations for the original Wunda chair, the EXO chair, and the split pedal Combo Chair. The chair is great for doing strengthening work with athletic clients, and as an addition to group programming in combination with the Mat. This course includes exercises and programming for both personal training sessions and classes.