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MAT SERIES
The Mat Series
comprises three mandatory two-day course modules. The courses must be taken in the
following order: PP, M1, M2. Successful completion of the series
will enable participants the opportunity to qualify by sitting
for the Mat Examination.
M3 is an optional module which is highly recommended for those interested in learning to use all of the various small props.
| Participants: | 15 maximum |
| Prerequisites: | Knowledge of basic anatomy and physiology. |
| Certified Fitness Instructor, or instructor of movement arts such as dance, yoga, tai chi, etc. or registered rehabilitation professional (MD, SRP, OT, DO, DC, RGN and certified athletic trainers). Pre-qualified career-changers*. | |
| 25 hours of private or group Pilates classes. | |
*Career changer? Don't yet qualify? |
Contact us for advice and information on how to gain the necessary education and experience. |
Course descriptions:
PP Polestar Pilates Principles (2 days - 16 hours)
This non-apparatus course introduces current research in movement science, motor learning, bioenergetics, and communication science to instructional practice through six basic movement principles which are used throughout the Polestar Pilates curriculum. Tactile, verbal and imagery cues are integrated with the Pilates exercises. This course introduces Polestar Pilates Screening™, which includes postural evaluation and functional testing, to prepare you to properly design a plan to implement Pilates exercises for clients. This unique component significantly enhances decision-making skills as a Pilates practitioner. For those participants undertaking more than one series, it is only required to complete the Principles module once.
M1 and M2 (two 2‐day course modules of 16 hours per course)
Polestar Pilates Mat program provides instruction in Pilates principles, techniques and practice with emphasis on group dynamics for the Pilates Mat. After the Pilates Principles for Fitness course (PF), the Pilates Mat program continues with two 2-day courses scheduled approximately one month apart. The time between courses allows you to practice and become comfortable with the material before continuing to the next course.
The principles learned in PF will be applied throughout these two course modules and you will learn the following:
- Mat exercises for beginning through advanced levels
- Dynamics of group training
- Program design and exercise sequencing
- Advanced cueing skills
- Exercise modifications for a variety of populations
To qualify, you will be required to complete the required reading and writing assignments, 25 hours of observation, 50 hours of self mastery practice and 50 hours of apprentice teaching, at your own cost where applicable.
M3 Mat Small Props Module (Optional 2-day course module)
This course incorporates a unique blend of Pilates mat exercises with small props (foam roller, rotating discs, balance board, gym ball, Flex Ring Toner®, and springs) to enhance and challenge your Pilates mat repertoire. Focus will also continue on exercise modification for populations with special needs. In this course, practical sessions will incorporate exercise transitions and choreography to enhance the quality of your Pilates mat programming. These small props add a unique proprioceptive challenge to the original exercises as well as providing support and assistance to the more challenging Pilates repertoire. Principles of exercise modification are discussed. Emphasis is placed on increasing and decreasing the challenge of the Pilates mat exercises.
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