Presenter: Karen Clippinger

This workshop will increase your understanding of and ability to recognize coordinated and disrupted movement between the scapula and upper arm (scapulohumeral rhythm). These concepts will then be applied to classical and novel Pilates exercises that are vital for promoting a healthy scapulohumeral rhythm, as well as working with clients with shoulder impingement and rotator cuff problems.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

In this workshop, you will learn ways of using props to spice up your Pilates repertoire.  Balls, bands, foam rolls, poles, weights, rotating discs and more will be used in creative and meaningful ways.  Lisa will also show you how to effectively take an exercise from one piece of equipment and experience it on others.   Many options will be explored but the integrity of each exercise will be maintained. You will leave this workshop inspired, with a myriad of new ideas that can easily be incorporated into your sessions making them more exciting and appropriate for your clients.

The Mat Work, which forms the foundation of the Pilates method, is multi faceted in it's possible uses. This session will deal with the Mat Work as a warm up and conditioning routine for fit individuals and athletes. The BodyArts and Science (BASI)  approach will be specifically used and addressed. The Mat Work Flow Sequence is pure and traditional, and at the same time contemporary offering a unique view of the traditional Pilates Mat Work.

This workshop has been presented with resounding success to large audiences at conferences in the USA, Australia and South Africa and in smaller forums around the globe. Pilates offers wide variety: a vast array of exercises, as well as a broad range of apparatus. Choosing exercises and apparatus wisely is one of the keys to success. At times the Reformer will be the apparatus of choice, and at times the Wunda Chair. It is important to know when to choose each piece - their unique qualities and their key attributes. Although very different, these standard pieces of Pilates apparatus actually complement each other well in many ways. Together, they create the ultimate blend.

Growing old does not have to mean giving up on an active lifestyle. Whether it’s continuing to play tennis or golf or simply playing with grandchildren, today’s elders do not easily relinquish the activities that have sustained them throughout their long lives. Pilates can keep the mature population active, but the instructors who deal with them need to understand the limitations of their elderly clients.

This workshop deals with the musculoskeletal issues, diseases and other physical changes that are common in the older population. You will learn modifications and variations to the original BASI repertoire and discuss the specific needs of this age group. By applying the correct tools, variations and precautions, you will be able to take your clients safely through a session that will assist them in maintaining an active quality of life.

By the end of this workshop you will have both the knowledge and the confidence to work with this wonderful population!

This course is approved by the PMA for 6 CECs

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

This workshop focuses on the often-neglected aspect of advanced work - the source. It appears the connection between Fundamental Level work and Advanced Level work is often diminished or lost completely. This phenomenon has become more apparent as the popularity of Pilates grows and "teachers" are trained in record time.  The vital stage of mastering the Basics should not be sacrificed to simply “perform” Advanced Level work. The progression from basic movements to the highly advanced work will be highlighted and experienced. This stimulating learning experience will culminate in a valuable outcome - Back to Basics! 

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

Presenter: Teresa Maldonado Marchok, MPT, CPT

One out of every two women over the age of 50 has low bone density – either osteopenia or osteoporosis. With adults over the age of 65 representing the fastest growing population segment in the United States, every Pilates instructor needs to be trained in dealing with this critical group of clients. Position yourself as a skilled and knowledgeable instructor by acquiring the necessary tools to work safely and effectively with the clients who need Pilates the most.

Workshop Objectives:

• Differentiate between Osteoporosis and Osteopenia
• Familiarize yourself with the Fracture Risk Calculator
• Understand Bone Density Scores
• Upgrade your knowledge with the latest exercise research
• Receive recommendations about preventing fractures
• Learn about contraindicated movements and exercises
• Study physical assessment methods
• Learn Pilates based exercises progressions including the Avalon system for the fit osteoporotic/osteopenic client
• Understand and be able to offer exercise recommendations for the frail osteoporotic/osteopenic client.

Ever thought on how to add a cardio component to your Pilates classes? This workshop gives you the opportunity to experience and learn how to construct a practical class packed with a wide range of repertoire, set at a grueling pace and the ultimate aim to maintain quality while pushing the body to new limits in a Pilates class. A dynamic interval style workout that is guaranteed to get the heart rate elevated. A blend of pilates and cardio-style movement in a flowing class format. We will choreograph a sequence that is suitable for all levels. Cardio pilates alternates between ballistic and passive movements to form the ultimate fat burning workout.

Core function has justifiably become the focus of many exercise programs today. Being one of the focal points of Pilates, and a key reason for its immense popularity, function of the core is abundantly represented in the Pilates repertoire. Core control is a fundamental element of every Pilates movement, and should be developed at every level of the work. This workshop is geared towards heightening understanding of the core, including the anatomy of the pelvis and spine and their associated muscles. Participants learn and practice a wide range of exercises from both the classic and the BASI Pilates repertoires.

Athletes represent a very specific population and as such special considerations should be applied to serving their needs.  This workshop will guide the instructor through the unique and valuable applications available for the athlete directly related to the Pilates method.  Challenging muscle groups with precision of movement in strength, flexibility and endurance, will provide the necessary tools to structure demanding, yet well rounded sessions, for the professional (or weekend) athlete in your studio.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

It is essential that a Pilates teacher always understand an exercise to apply the movment in the most appropriate manner and in the most effective setting. This workshop will look at how to adapt exercises in order to make them easier or more challenging, depending on the client's needs, and analyze them looking at muscle focus, objectives, goals and cues.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

In order for a Pilates teacher to fully understand an exercise or movement it is essential that they are able to analyze the movement in question. Once that has occurred, the teacher is then able to apply the movement in the most appropriate manner and in the most effective setting. An exercise should always be selected intelligently according to the desired outcome.

This workshop will cover a range of Pilates exercises we all use in our daily teaching and examine/analyze them looking at muscle focus, objectives, goals and cues.

This workshop gives learners the opportunity to learn how to utilize small apparatus to its full potential. Find out how to challenge and assist clients with the use of small apparatus, expanding your repertoire knowledge and learn to add some spice and fun to your classes. Not to be missed.

This workshop explores the various facets of the BASI Block System. The Block System is a programing tool applied by BASI to the pilates method. We will address the structure and diversity of the Block System and demonstrate useful transitions to make workouts flow seamlessly from start to finish.

This 3 hour Foam Roller workshop is based on the Pilates Principles combined with some Yoga and Gyrotonics/Kinesis movements. This class will be a movement class focusing on stabilising the major joints on an unstable surface – the foam roller. You will be amazed what new options and opportunities the foam roller can bring to your repertoire knowledge.

Presenter:  Karen Clippinger

The hip and knee are highly interrelated in terms of alignment and mechanics. Learn to detect and help correct common technique errors involving the hip and knee in standing and on the Reformer. Learn new Reformer exercises designed to optimize function of the hip and knee, including exercises that challenge balance and develop valuable motor control links between the joints.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures


 

Anthony Lett, author of the popular book “Innovations in Pilates” will teach and present on the major themes from his book. The workshop will cover important themes in the education and development of any serious Pilates teacher or advanced student.

“Innovations in Pilates” details the integration of Therapeutic Muscle Stretching on the Pilates reformer. It has been described as the ‘missing element” in Pilates repertoire and teacher education. Anthony’s course will introduce you to the latest research in stretching biomechanics and neurophysiology in practical ways that will give you new insights into the Pilates system and dozens of new and effective ways of using your reformer. Whether you teach in a clinical or well-being based Pilates model, the work will enable you to increase the effectiveness of your programs and offer and new and exciting class formats. With the latest 3d analysis of movement, the course will also clarify and develop your anatomical knowledge in theoretical and experiential ways.

It is going to be a weekend jam-packed with information designed to inform, improve and challenge the way that you think about and teach your Pilates work!

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

In this workshop, participants will learn the associated benefits and problem-solving skills involved in teaching jumpboard classes. Discussion includes jumping technique and biomechanics, setting appropriate objectives, pacing, choreography and repertoire variations for special populations/needs.  Students will learn jumping sequences for improving mechanics and strength, building endurance and core control, improving speed, power, and proprioception, and expanding cardiovascular capacity.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

Kyphosis and loss of bone density are two common problems that accompany aging and can have dire health consequences. This workshop will provide useful anatomical and physiological information about kyphosis and osteoporosis, as well as offer Pilates-based exercises designed for use with these conditions in a wide variety of clients. Common recommendations for exercise modification for osteoporosis will also be presented.

Kyphosis is one of the most common postural imbalances a Pilates teacher comes across every day. Understanding the structural and muscular imbalances as well as the inhibition and compensation patterns is a key to prescribing the right exercise program and helping the kyphotic client improve their posture. This practical workshop will explain all the above mentioned topics and then take you through repertoire on the mat and equipment to demonstrate what kind of exercise would be very important to the kyphotic client and how to modify familiar exercises to make them more appropriate and beneficial.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

Conceived by Rael Isacowitz, this intensive, two-hour session focuses on the multiple possibilities of the Mat Work, which is the foundation of the Pilates method. Approaching the Mat Work as a warm-up and conditioning routine for fit individuals and athletes, the Marathon Mat is challenging, invigorating and eye-opening. Based on the BASI approach to the work, the workshop builds a meditation in motion, using both classical and contemporary exercises and featuring the BASI Flow Sequence. This will prepare you for the Ultr-Marathon Mat™, a three-hour exploration of the Pilates Mat Work at the highest level of endurance, strength and determination!

Pre-Pilates exercises are often introduced to either beginners who need to work on joint release, stability and core strength; or to those recovering from injury.  This workshop will look at some Pre-Pilates repertoire and then demonstrate how to integrate Pre-Pilates exercises into a "real" Pilates routine in order to achieve your goals, without sacrificing flow or challenge.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

Flow is one of the tenets of Pilates, yet at times seems to be the one element missing from classes. Flow of movement, flow from one exercise to the next; that amazing feeling one gets when an hour goes flying by without realising.

This practical workshop aims to remind the participants of the benefits of creating and teaching a flowing class and the different elements we need to keep in mind in order to successfully maintain the flow of the class. The workshop includes a Mat class that demonstrates how to use all the elements described above in a successful way.

Presenter: Bonnie Sessions, BASI Pilates® Senior Faculty

In this workshop, we explore the effects of weight accumulation in different areas of the body and how this affects the client’s center of gravity while exercising.  Both the de-conditioned and the fit overweight client will be discussed. 

We will look at exercise selection, common assists for this population, and cueing tips to ensure successful sessions.  You will learn how using BASI Pilates principles and proper exercise selection with your overweight clients can empower them throughout their sessions and their lives.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

Presenters:  Kathryn Russell and Robb Russell, D.C.

This workshop will provide a background on Chronic Pain Syndromes such as Fibromyalgia, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, and Multiple Sclerosis and why Pilates is such an effective tool in the management of these syndromes. Research has shown that Chronic Pain is best managed through an inter-disciplinary approach focusing on exercise. The Pilates method with its emphasis on breath, core strength and joint stability is particularly successful for those suffering from chronic pain. You will learn specific modifications and strategies necessary to guide your client through a Pilates session. You will also learn how to evaluate which modifications are appropriate and why.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

Presenters:  Kathryn Russell and Robb Russell, D.C.

This workshop will provide a background on Chronic Pain Syndromes such as Fibromyalgia, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Lupus, and Multiple Sclerosis and why Pilates is such an effective tool in the management of these syndromes. Research has shown that Chronic Pain is best managed through an inter-disciplinary approach focusing on exercise. The Pilates method with its emphasis on breath, core strength and joint stability is particularly successful for those suffering from chronic pain. You will learn specific modifications and strategies necessary to guide your client through a Pilates session. You will also learn how to evaluate which modifications are appropriate and why.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

The functional fitness provided by Pilates is as important for men as it is for women. That is especially true of male athletes, whose workouts often tend towards specific muscular development, rather than integrated fitness. Pilates training, with its emphasis on functional strength and flexibility, core control, balance, uniform development and efficient movement, is an ideal foundation for cross-training as well as general fitness, irrespective of gender. This workshop highlights the typical needs of men, offering repertoire and cueing appropriate for men, as well as modifications that are most effective with male clients. Joseph Pilates originally created his method for men; after the Pilates for Men workshop, you’ll understand why.

The Pilates Method has often been accused of being one dimensional and linear. Pilates with a twist will explore some of the lateral flexion and rotational movements of the method. Both of these actions are essential for efficient functional movement, one of the principals of the Pilates Method. We will move from the basic to advanced rotations, discussing safety and the appropriate prescription of each movement.

In this workshop, you will learn ways of using props to spice up your Pilates repertoire.   Balls, bands, foam rolls, poles, weights, rotating discs and more will be used in creative and meaningful ways.  Sheri will also show you how to effectively take an exercise from one piece of equipment and experience it on others.   Many options will be explored but the integrity of each exercise will be maintained.   You will leave this workshop inspired, with lots of new ideas that can easily be incorporated into your sessions making them more exciting and appropriate for your clients.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

In this workshop, you will learn new exciting ways of using props to spice up your Pilates repertoire.  Balls, bands, foam rolls, poles, weights, rotating discs and more will be used in creative and meaningful ways.  Sheri will also show you how to effectively take an exercise from one piece of equipment and experience it on others.   Many options will be explored while always maintaining the original integrity of each exercise.   You will leave this workshop inspired,motivated, and with many new ideas that can easily be incorporated into your sessions making them more exciting and appropriate for your clients. 

For those of you who took the Pilates with Props workshop last year, you will not be disappointed.  Sheri has an all new repertoire ready for you!

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

This workshop will include a discussion of the key alignment problems of lumbar lordosis, in-facing knees, hyperextended knees and excessive foot pronation in terms of their commonly associated strength and flexibility imbalances. Participants will learn classical and novel Pilates-based exercises designed to improve these alignment problems, with a particular emphasis on developing kinesthetic awareness and desired muscle activation patterns that can be transferred from isolation exercises to functional movement.

PILATES, BIOMECHANICS AND REALITY: How Positive Biomechanical Concepts Can Transform into Negative Movement Patterns

Science offers new information continuously, or in many instances substantiates old theories. This allows movement professionals to better their systems, better teaching methods, and most importantly better outcomes. Yet it has become apparent that at times, with all good intention, this information is implemented either incorrectly or taken to the extreme creating a new set of problems. This workshop will explore this phenomenon and delve into several examples of common problems that have evolved from good movement concepts. This workshop will offer concrete guidelines for positive outcomes.

Topics will include:

• The use of neutral spine and neutral pelvis
• Interpreting “locking” the joints
• Placement of the head
• Finding the balance between stabilization and mobilization
• The importance of the hip flexor group

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

Take the next step in your Pilates Career.  Let BASI help you earn your certification from the PMA.

The Certified Pilates Teacher exam from the Pilates Method Alliance (PMA) is the only third-party professional certification exam in the Pilates industry. If your standing in the Pilates community is important to you, PMA certification is a must.

BASI Pilates, a leader in Pilates education, has a special workshop that helps you prepare for the PMA exam. With an in-depth review of the PMA manual, sample test questions and test tips, the BASI workshop is the perfect aid for someone with pre-test jitters.

The four-hour workshop is taught by Gail DeSart, BASI Faculty member, PMA Certified and ACE Group and Personal Instructor. Gail holds multiple certificates in many forms of exercise and has over 33 years in the field of exercise science and health and fitness. 

If you have completed your Pilates equipment training and are ready for the next step in your career, BASI is ready to help you succeed.

BASI limits the number of participants in the workshop to ensure that every person gets personal attention. Save your spot by registering now!!

Shoulder Mechanics, Functional Movement and the Pilates Repertoire

An Upper Girdle Extravaganza! The first day of this two-day workshop addresses shoulder function using all the apparatus and kicks off with a one-hour mat class. The second day focuses on the use of the AVALON® System, particularly pertaining to the upper body. Participants may choose to attend either or both days.

Each day begins with a one hour Mat class.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

Subtitled “Shoulder mechanics, function and the Pilates repertoire,” this workshop is an upper girdle extravaganza! Immaculate control and correct shoulder mechanics are essential in Pilates, particularly when performing the higher-level work. The workshop focuses on understanding and implementing correct shoulder mechanics, both while performing the Pilates repertoire and in everyday activities. Shoulder-related problems are among the most frequently encountered among clients, and shoulder-related cues are among the most common given when teaching. Focusing on the evolution of approach to this region of the body, this subject needs to be addressed and understood by every Pilates teacher.

Pilates can offer a vital mode of reducing some of the important declines associated with aging. This workshop will provide classical and novel Pilates-based exercises to enhance bone density; counter kyphosis and loss of lumbar extension; improve lower body antigravity functional strength; address overhead reaching and grip strength; and promote balance.  Recommendations for exercise modification for selected conditions commonly accompanying aging such as arthritis and osteoporosis will also be presented.

Rhythm Pilates™ is an evolutionary approach to the traditional Pilates mat work. Infusing the mind-body elements of Dance and Yoga to create Rhythm Pilates' movement-art workout routines that are choreographed to music. Routines vary in levels and complexity, from the beginning level, intermediate and advanced level work.  Pilates is the technique, Yoga allows freedom of the spirit and Dance infuses the beauty into the work.

Earn: 10 PMA CEC's

Presenter: Karen Clippinger

This workshop will include a discussion of the sacroiliac joint, its key function as part of the link between the lower extremity and spine, and its common dysfunction and associated pain. Participants will learn Pilates-based exercises than can be used to help restore stability and more desired function of this vital joint. Use of cueing and position modifications will also be provided for selected classical repertoire aimed at preventing injury or aggravation of chronic conditions in this area.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

Presenter:  Samantha Wood, MPT, MBA

This workshop will teach Pilates Instructors a Physical Therapy approach to working with clients with shoulder problems.  Functional anatomy, biomechanics, and current literature related to the shoulder complex will be reviewed.  Specific injuries and diagnoses will be discussed.  Participants will learn precautions and/or contraindications for these injuries, as well as options and/or exercise modifications to the original Pilates repertoire.  Through lecture, discussion, demonstration and practice participants will learn safe ways to work with clients who suffer from some of the most commonly seen shoulder issues.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

This workshop will focus on the correct mechanics of the shoulder girdle - particularly relating to the Pilates repertoire. Immaculate control and sequencing of movement are essential in this method. Higher-level Pilates challenges, coupled with everyday activities demanding shoulder involvement, can easily create negative movement patterns and compensations. Poor shoulder stability, mobility and correct patterning of movement are certainly the most frequently encountered dysfunctions amongst clients. This subject is one that needs to be addressed as its implications are far reaching.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

Incorporating Pilates principles and other forms of movement to challenge attendees on a basic to advanced level. Working in all planes and accompanied by a variety of small apparatus, incorporating partnering for a deeper more intense challenge than the traditional Pilates repertoire.

This course focuses on one of the most fundamental of all Pilates teaching skills, “cueing”. The basis for all communication between teacher and student, cueing demands great skill; information must be conveyed, received and integrated within milliseconds to bring about the desired result. Good cueing is integral to any skilled teaching session.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

Introducing the Avalon System, the most innovative redesign of Pilates equipment since the days of Joseph Pilates, The workshop explores the greatly expanded repertoire of the Step Barrel in its Avalon incarnation. 

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

This workshop will introduce a new line of Pilates equipment with concepts innovated by Rael Isacowitz and designed by Rael in concert with Balanced Body Inc. Focusing on the Avalon Arm Chair and Avalon Step Barrel, this equipment demonstrates revolutionary changes. With the Avalon, Rael has added resistance to pieces of apparatus which did not have it in the original designs, and subtly remodeled the designs for safetly and comfort.Solidly grounded in the work and principles of Joseph Pilates, these designs greatly expand the range of exercises on the equipment and explore uncharted territory. The most exciting development of the Pilates equipment in recent years, the Avalon System will introduce the professional to new dimensions in the Pilates work. An extensive repertoire will be taught and new concepts introduced.

Please read the course Policies & Procedures

The Pilates Method has often been accused of being one dimensional and linear. The Spiraling Arts of Pilates will explore some of the lateral flexion and rotational movements of the method. Both of these actions are essential for efficient functional movement, one of the principals of the Pilates Method. We will move from the basic to advanced rotations, discussing safety and the appropriate prescription of each movement.

This workshop has been presented with resounding success to large audiences at conferences in the USA, Australia and South Africa and in smaller forums around the globe. Pilates offers wide variety: a vast array of exercises, as well as a broad range of apparatus. Choosing exercises and apparatus wisely is one of the keys to success.

At times the Reformer will be the apparatus of choice, and at times the Wunda Chair, and the Mat Work is always an underlying theme from which all the repertoire emanates. It is important to know when to choose each piece - their unique qualities and their key attributes. Although very different, these standard pieces of Pilates apparatus (the Mat included) actually complement each other well in many ways. Together, they create the ultimate blend.

Presented By: Karen Clippinger

Research suggests that addressing the rotational component of scoliosis is vital for improving scoliosis. After discussing the basic anatomical and biomechanical changes of the spine associated with scoliosis, this session will focus on utilizing counter rotation and lateral flexion combined with distraction of the spine to attempt to lessen the asymmetries and discomfort often associated with scoliosis. These principles will be applied progressively from standing posture to strengthening exercises to functional movement. Participants will participate in novel exercises utilizing elastic bands and Pilates apparatus, as well as learn cueing for classical exercises that can be utilized to maximize benefits for your clients. These exercises and cues can also provide valuable strength, kinesthetic awareness, and postural benefits for your many clients who have spinal and pelvic asymmetries that are not considered due to scoliosis.

Do you feel unfamiliar or unsure about certain back extension exercises? Do you find some exercises difficult to teach? Are you in doubt if a specific exercise would be the right choice for a specific client?

In this workshop we will review and deepen the BASI® repertoire on the equipment with the focus on Back Extension. We will look at how and when to recruit the abdominals to make sure they stabilize and support the lower back and how and when to recruit upper back muscles in a way that will improve the mechanics of the exercise and create balance in posture and movement.

This workshop has been presented with resounding success to large audiences at conferences in the USA, Australia and South Africa and in smaller forums around the globe. Pilates offers wide variety: a vast array of exercises, as well as a broad range of apparatus. Choosing exercises and apparatus wisely is one of the keys to success.

At times the Reformer will be the apparatus of choice, and at times the Wunda Chair. It is important to know when to choose each piece - their unique qualities and their key attributes. Although very different, these standard pieces of Pilates apparatus  actually complement each other well in many ways. Together, they create the ultimate blend.