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The Body Concepts and BBU education programs have been designed to meet the needs of today’s Pilates professionals. Courses are modular and progressive allowing you to start with a basic mat or reformer training and continue your education as you see fit.
The Body Concepts and BBU Pilates instructor training program is designed to create thoughtful, creative and successful Pilates teachers. Our curriculum emphasizes the principles underlying each exercise. Our instructors have vast experience in movement and anatomy
Our program is designed in modules so you can take your first course now and continue your training next week, next month or next year. Each module is self contained so you can take them as quickly or as slowly as your schedule and budget allow. In addition to our instructor certification program, we offer a number of additional modules as well as workshops.
Body Concepts Anatomy Series (10 hours)
Throughout the year, based on demand, we offer an Anatomy Series at our Folsom studio: Basic Anatomy, Shoulder and Upper Body, Hip and Lower body. The course is taught by Rob Kopitzke, BBU Faculty Member and Physical Therapist, and Linda Bailey, Certified Pilates Instructor and Certified Personal Trainer. Both have an in-depth knowledge of anatomy and how to apply that knowledge specifically to Pilates exercises and movement in general.
Balanced Body University Introduction to Anatomy (12 hours)
Strongly recommended for Mat 1 & 2
Required for Reformer and Apparatus courses
BBU Anatomy includes an introduction to the key elements of the musculoskeletal system including the bones, joint structure and function, and the primary muscles involved in movement. BBU Anatomy is specifically geared toward Pilates and movement teachers and includes practical exercises on the functions of the muscles and joints allowing you to embody the information more effectively. BBU Anatomy may be taught using traditional methods or as an Anatomy in ClayTM workshop depending on the resources of the host studio.
Balanced Body University Pilates Movement Principles (2 hours)
Included in Mat 1 & 2
Required for students starting the program after Mat 1
Pilates Movement Principles introduces you to the biomechanical foundation of the Pilates method and to the essential components of functional core strength, lumbopelvic and scapular stability, as well as assessing and correcting alignment and improving flexibility. Pre-Pilates exercises are included for teaching these key principles to your clients and classes. This course is strongly recommended for students who do not take their Mat training through BBU or who are starting their training with Reformer 1.
Pilates Mat Certification Program
Modules: Mat I and Mat II
The BBU Pilates Mat certification includes the complete Pilates Mat repertoire as well as an introduction to the movement principles that make Pilates such a successful exercise program. Modifications and variations are included to help you successfully teach a wide range of clients. BBU Pilates Mat certification will empower you to become a successful, creative and transformative Pilates teacher.
Our Mat certification program includes:
- Exercise instruction in the complete Pilates Mat repertoire
- A comprehensive manual consistent with current national standards
- Cueing, coaching and teaching tips for clients at different levels of ability
- Safety information for teaching older adults, pre- and post-natal women, and clients with back, knee, neck and shoulder conditions
- Tips on teaching successful group programs
Mat I (16 hours)
Introduction to Pilates & Beginning/Intermediate Exercises
Prerequisites: 3 years experience teaching movement, anatomy, 20 Pilates Mat class sessions
Mat I includes an introduction to the history and principles of Pilates, beginning and most intermediate level exercises with modifications, lectures on class order and programming in a group setting, and guidelines for teaching seniors, pre-, and post-natal classes.
Mat II (16 hours)
Intermediate/Advanced Exercises
Prerequisites: Mat I
Mat II includes the remaining intermediate and advanced level exercises as well as essential movement principles and training tips for advancing clients to the higher levels. Pilates for sports specific activities are also covered.
BBU Pilates Mat Instructor Certification
Requirements for Completion
To become a fully qualified Balanced Body University Mat Instructor, students must complete the following:
- Anatomy
- BBU Mat 1 – Course work, written and practical test (16 hours)
- BBU Mat 2 – Course work, written and practical test (16 hours)
- 25 Mat Personal Sessions and 45 Mat Student Teaching Hours or
- 20 Mat Personal Sessions, 15 observation hours and 35 student teaching hours
- Final written and practical test
Total hours for completion of Mat program: 102 hours (not including anatomy)
Upon completion of all of the requirements, a certificate of completion as a Balanced Body University Mat Instructor will be issued.
Pilates Reformer Certification Program
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. The wide range of exercises provides a stimulating workout for clients at any level of ability.
Our Reformer certification program includes:
- Exercise instruction in the complete Pilates Reformer repertoire
- A comprehensive manual consistent with current national standards
- Cueing, coaching, safety and teaching tips for clients at different levels of ability
- Guidelines for teaching older adults, pre- and post-natal women, and clients with back, knee, neck and shoulder conditions
- Program design for clients at every level including sports specific lessons
- Equipment safety and maintenance
Reformer I (18 hours)
Introduction to Reformer & Beginning Exercises and Pilates Principles
Prerequisites: 3 years experience teaching movement, anatomy, 30 Pilates Reformer classes or personal training sessions
Reformer I includes an introduction to the Pilates Reformer including set up and safety, plus beginning exercises, program sequencing and teaching tips for group classes. By the end of the course you will be able to teach a beginning Reformer class or personal training session.
Reformer II (16 hours)
Intermediate Exercises
Prerequisites: Reformer I
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 (14 hours)
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 programs designed for specific sports.
Facility Requirements
Facilities must have one Reformer, one sitting box and one footstrap for every two students enrolled. Padded footplates (jumpboards) are required for Reformer II. Cost of equipment is not included in course fees.
BBU Pilates Reformer Instructor Certification
Requirements for Completion
To become a fully qualified Balanced Body University Reformer Instructor, students must complete the following:
- Anatomy
- BBU Mat Instructor training or equivalent
- BBU Reformer 1 – Course work, written and practical test (18 hours)
- BBU Reformer 2 – Course work, written and practical test (16 hours)
- BBU Reformer 3 – Course work, written and practical test (14 hours)
- 50 Personal practice hours and 100 Teaching hours or
- 30 Reformer personal sessions, 30 observation hours and 90 teaching hours
- Practical test
Total hours for completion for Reformer program: 198 hours (not including anatomy)
Total hour for completion of Mat & Reformer program: 300 hours
Upon completion of all of the requirements, a certificate of completion as a Balanced Body University Reformer Instructor will be issued.
Pilates Apparatus Certification Program
Modules: Trapeze Table/Cadillac/Tower, Chair, Barrels and Small Equipment
BBU Pilates Apparatus Certification completes the full Pilates instructor certification program. Included is the complete repertoire on the Trapeze Table/Cadillac/Tower, the Pilates Chair, the Barrels and small equipment. Completing the additional apparatus training gives you a great variety of tools to use when working with clients and qualifies you to take the national Pilates certification exam. The modules may be offered individually or they may be combined depending on the equipment available at the host studio.
- Trapeze Table, Chair and Barrels, Part 1 (14 hours)
- Trapeze Table, Chair and Barrels, Part 2 (12 hours)
- Trapeze Table, Chair and Barrels, Part 3 (12 hours)
Our Apparatus Certification program includes:
- Exercise instruction in the complete Pilates Trapeze Table/Cadillac/Tower, Pilates Chair and Barrels and Small equipment is included
- A comprehensive manual for each piece of equipment consistent with current national standards
- Cueing, coaching, safety and teaching tips for clients at different levels of ability
- Program sequences for classes and personal training sessions
- Equipment safety and set up
Trapeze Table/Cadillac (18 hours)
Prerequisite: Reformer II or Reformer certification
The BBU Trapeze Table/Cadillac certification provides a thorough introduction to Trapeze Table exercises as well as applications for beginning, post-rehabilitation and advanced clients. This training is appropriate for students working with the Allegro Tower of Power, Half Trapeze and Wall Unit as well as those working with full Trapeze Tables. Sequencing programs using multiple pieces of equipment are covered as well as equipment set up, safety and maintenance.
Allegro Tower of Power (18 hours)
Prerequisite: Reformer II or Reformer certification
The BBU Allegro Tower of Power certification provides an excellent next step for studios and fitness centers currently using the Allegro Reformer. This course includes exercise instruction on the full repertoire on the Tower of Power as well as programming tips for combining Reformer and Tower exercises in classes and personal training sessions. The Tower training is appropriate for students working with the Trapeze Table, Half Trapeze and Wall Unit as well as those working with the Allegro Tower of Power.
Pilates Chair (12 hours)
Prerequisite: Reformer II or Reformer certification
The BBU Pilates Chair certification includes exercises and variations for both the original Wunda 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.
Pilates Barrels & Small Apparatus (6 hours)
Prerequisite: Reformer II or Reformer certification
The BBU Barrels certification includes exercises and variations for the Ladder Barrel, Step Barrel, Ped o Pul, Ring, Foot Corrector and Toe Corrector. The Step Barrel and Ladder Barrel add variety to personal training sessions or classes, the Magic Circle adds a challenge to wide variety of exercises and the other small apparatus are useful for working with clients with particular issues.
BBU Pilates Instructor Certification
Requirements for Completion
To become a fully qualified Balanced Body University Pilates Instructor, students must complete the following requirements:
- Anatomy (required)
- BBU Mat Instructor training or equivalent
- BBU Reformer Instructor training or equivalent
- BBU Cadillac/Tower – Course work, written and practical test (18 hours)
- BBU Chair – Course work, written and practical test (14 hours)
- BBU Barrels – Course work, written and practical test (6 hours)
- 45 Personal practice hours and 105 Teaching hours or
- 35 Personal sessions, 20 observations hours and 95 teaching hours
- Practical test
Total hours for completion of Apparatus: 188 hours
Total hours for completion of full program: 488 hours
Upon completion of all of the requirements, a certificate of completion as a Balanced Body University Pilates Instructor will be issued.
Students who have completed a Pilates certification program through other organizations and are interested in obtaining a BBU certification should contact the BBU office to inquire about our bridge program.
Reformer and Other Apparatus Final Exam and Certification
Once instructors have completed all of the Reformer and/or Apparatus course work and hours, they must pass a practical exam demonstrating their teaching ability. Exams will be regularly scheduled in different areas of the world. If instructors are not able to test out due to geographical challenges, testing out by video can be arranged. If a student is completing both the Reformer and the Apparatus sequence, they will not need to test out separately on the Reformer and the Apparatus.
The final test out consists of:
Observation of a session with a client or an apparatus class. The specific requirements will be determined prior to the testing.
During the exam we will be observing and rating the instructor’s skills in the following areas:
- Correct set up and execution of the exercises
- Client safety
- Appropriate sequencing
- Appropriateness of the exercises to the client or class
- Understanding and application of the principles
- Cueing and the ability to communicate with your client or class
If the instructor does not pass on the first try, we will discuss what they need to focus on in order to pass and set up a timeline for completion.
Personal Sessions
Students can count any classes or Pilates personal training session they have already taken. Developing and committing to a personal Pilates practice is an essential part of becoming an effective and inspiring teaching.
Observation Hours
Observation hours include watching experienced instructors teach group classes of private sessions. Observation is a great way to understand verbal and manual cueing, program sequencing and to hone your teaching skills.
Student Teaching Hours
Teaching hours include any Pilates teaching either as an employee at a fitness center of Pilates Studio or for family and friends.