Mat & Reformer Teacher Training Retreat - Life in Movement

The BASI Mat & Reformer Teacher Training Program equips students with an in-depth understanding of Pilates theory, exercises, and skills to teach all levels on the Mat and Fundamental to Intermediate levels on the Reformer. This program serves as an excellent foundation for teaching both individual clients and group classes. Mat and Reformer students have the option to extend training and complete the BASI Comprehensive Global Program.

This program follows our Flex format. The Mat and Reformer Flex Program is delivered through a combination of pre-recorded online lectures and four in-studio modules. Pre-recorded online lectures cover theoretical presentations and are viewed at your own pace prior to each set of in-studio modules. In-studio modules include discussions, exercise analysis, and movement practice.

There are no formal prerequisites for enrollment, though prior Pilates experience is recommended. Students must enroll at least two weeks before the first in-studio module. Digital course materials and the first set of pre-recorded online lectures will be released at that time, allowing students ample time to review the required content before attending the in-studio modules.

To receive a BASI Mat and Reformer Certificate, students must complete the following:

• Attend all four in-studio modules
• View all pre-recorded online lectures in full
• Pass all pre-recorded online lecture quizzes
• Pass Final Written Exam
• Complete 225 Student Hours (more information available here):
  • 45 Observation
  • 90 Self-Practice
  • 90 Teaching
• Pass Final Teaching Evaluation and Practical Exam

Program schedule is subject to postponement or cancellation, based on student enrollment.

PLEASE NOTE: This course is offered in a retreat-style format via http://www.lifeinmovement.co/— Please get in touch with them prior to paying your tuition. Check-in is May 3, 2026 and check-out is May 10, 2026. Each day's schedule will be as follows: 8:00am Mat Class, 9:00am Breakfast, 10:00am- 12:00pm Instruction, 12:00pm Break, 3:00pm - 6:00pm Instruction. For questions or to register for the retreat portion of the program, please contact [email protected]. Tuition is paid separately. Please click on the registration tab from this page to pay tuition.

Module 101 May 04, 2026 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Theory review: The Fundamentals (watched online prior to Module 101)

Primary concepts covered include the 10 movement principles of the Pilates method, an overview of the pelvic region, Pilates breathing, an historical overview of Pilates, the BASI approach, and the importance of safety when teaching Pilates. 

Repertoire includes fundamental Mat & fundamental Reformer. Includes a one-hour Mat class.

Module 102 May 05, 2026 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Theory review: Anatomy Overview (watched online prior to Module 102)

Anatomy Overview Part 1

Primary concepts covered include an anatomy and terminology overview: major bones, muscles, joints, bony landmarks, and center of gravity. The importance and practice of cueing is discussed. 

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 Block System, created by Rael Isacowitz, is introduced. 

Repertoire covered includes intermediate Mat, Leg Weights, and fundamental through intermediate level Reformer exercises. Includes a one-hour Mat class.

Module 103 May 07, 2026 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Theory review: Posture Assessment (watched online prior to Module 103)

Primary concepts covered are the principles of alignment and posture assessment. Discussion includes exercise as a tool for assessment. 

Repertoire covered includes Intermediate and Advanced Mat, Intermediate Reformer, and Magic Circle. Includes a one-hour Mat class.

Module 104 May 09, 2026 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Theory review: Core and Exercise Adaptation (watched online prior to Module 104)

Core Strength - Back and Abdominals

Primary concepts covered are core strength and the relationship of the various muscle groups that make up the core, with particular focus 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. 

Exercise Adaptation 

Primary concepts include an in-depth look into exercise adaptation and the use of assists and modifications. Lecture focuses on how to construct a complete and comprehensive program. A general review of the repertoire is conducted. 

Repertoire covered is advanced Mat, Intermediate Reformer, and Magic Circle. The online final Written Examination is available at the end of the program. Includes a one-hour Mat class.

For Frequently Asked Questions, please visit our FAQ page.

Refunds

BASI offers limited refunds for students who cancel prior to or during the Program. A $500.00 sum payable upon submission of your Enrollment Application is comprised of a $100.00 fee for processing your application (“Administration Fee”) and a $400.00 deposit (the “Deposit”).

If BASI does not accept your Application or if you cancel thirty (30) or more days prior to the start of the first module, we shall, as soon as possible, refund all monies paid by you to us other than the Administration Fee.

Your enrollment into a program is a deciding factor as to whether the program would run as scheduled. Therefore if you cancel fewer than thirty (30) days prior to the start of the first module, then within thirty (30) days of receiving your cancellation request, we will refund all monies paid by you to us other than the Initial Deposit (including the Administration Fee).

We shall not be obligated to refund any monies if you cancel at any time following commencement of the first module of any program (whether or not you attend that or any other module).

We reserve the right to cancel any program. If a program is cancelled and a replacement is not offered, we will refund all monies paid by you to us.

Transfers

In the event of your cancellation as described above, BASI will allow you to transfer any monies paid by you for the cancelled program to any other BASI program for which you qualify, so long as such program is scheduled to commence within one (1) year of your Application to the cancelled program. In the event that you fail to transfer as stated, BASI shall have no obligation to refund any monies paid by you to us, regardless of when you cancelled or requested a transfer.

Please note: Our Refund Policy pertains to each Program for which you enroll and is stated in full in the Enrollment Agreement. In the event of any discrepancy between our website and the Enrollment Agreement, the Enrollment Agreement shall prevail.

Washington and Colorado Residents – Please refer to your state specific agreement.

Testing fees and Auditing fees are non refundable and non-transferable.

All fees and refunds are in U.S. dollars (USD).

Tuition: $2300

Retreat fees are paid separately.