Reformer

Polestar is the creator of Allegro Reformer group training. Over the last three years, this fun, dynamic and comprehensive group workout has not only been successful in clubs, but in studio and Rehabilitation environments as well. The Allegro class concept has generated a wave of excitement among clients and instructors, and has sparked a new passion for choreography in the Pilates environment.

The Polestar Pilates Reformer Series is designed for Physical therapists, personal trainers, group instructors-their clients are reaping the benefits of the work of Joseph Pilates with this versatile piece of equipment. Personal Training on the Reformer has always been in very high demand. Reformer Level 3 specifically addresses applications of the Reformer for Pilates personal trainers working with a variety of populations.

The Reformer Series is comprised of four two-day courses. The courses must be taken in the following order: PP, Ref1, Ref2, Ref3. Successful completion of the series will enable participants the opportunity to gain qualification by sitting for the Reformer Exam.

Upon completion of the Reformer series, you will be able to:

1. Perform and teach each exercise and its progression
2. Understand the benefits and emphasis of each exercise
3. Adapt exercise sequences for diverse populations and group classes
4. Use the Polestar Screening or the ICF model to problem solve
5. Design and implement a successful exercise or treatment plan using the Pilates reformer

Participants: 20 maximum

Prerequisites:

1. Certified Fitness Instructor, or instructor of movement arts such as dance, yoga, tai chi, etc. for three years.
2. Knowledge of basic anatomy and physiology.
3. 25 hours of private or group Pilates classes.

Course descriptions:

PP Polestar Approach to Pilates Principles

This non-apparatus course applies current research in movement science, biomechanics, kinesiology and motor learning to instructional practice through six basic movement principles that are utilised throughout the Polestar curriculum. Tactile, verbal and imagery cues are integrated with Pilates mat exercises. This course introduces Polestar Pilates Screening™, which includes postural evaluation and functional testing, to prepare participants to properly design and implement Pilates exercises for patients and clients. This unique component significantly enhances your decision-making skills as a Pilates practitioner.

Participants: 35 maximum
Course Duration: 2 days, 16 hours
Prerequisites:
            1.    Certified fitness instructor (ACE, AFAA, ASCM, etc.) or instructor of movement arts such as dance, yoga, tai chi etc., for three years.
            2.    One semester of basic anatomy/physiology OR completion of Polestar's two-day anatomy and physiology basics course OR completion of Primal Anatomy Home Study (Internet or CD).
            3.    25 hours of private or group Pilates classes. Required for Studio, Allegro and Mat qualification.
CECs

American Council on Exercise CEC's: 1.6
NATABOC CEU's: 13.75 hours

Ref1 Reformer Level 1

The Allegro Reformer by Balanced Body® is the ideal reformer for small group training of 2-10 clients. You'll learn to conduct a 30-minute introductory class and a 50-minute Level 1 class. Both classes develop core control, strength, flexibility, alignment, coordination and balance. Each class includes 10 exercise categories that progress from lying supine to bridging, hands and knees, sitting, kneeling and standing. Participants will also learn the dynamics of group training in this unique conditioning programme, which integrates video support materials in class instruction.

Course Duration: 2 days, 16 hours
Participants: 20 maximum
Prerequisites: PP

CECs

American Council on Exercise CEC's: 1.6
NATABOC CEU's: 14.5 hours

Ref2 Reformer Level 2

In Reformer 2, two new 50-minute classes will be introduced to expand your repertoire for group teaching. This course will allow participants to advance your group classes with more challenging variations and new exercises for core control and extremity strength. Emphasis will be placed on advanced cueing skills that enhance the accuracy and quality of movement.

Course Duration: 2 days, 16 hours
Participants: 20 maximum
Prerequisites: PP, Ref1. Self-Mastery of Ref1 suggested

CECs

American Council on Exercise CEC's: 1.6
NATABOC CEU's: 14.5 hours

Ref3 Reformer Level 3 - Personal Training on the Allegro Reformer

Sixteen more exercises broaden your repertoire for personal training. These exercises further increase challenges to core control, strength, flexibility, alignment, coordination and balance. This course emphasises programme design for all levels of fitness, from the deconditioned to athletes desiring sports-specific training. The course also includes programme design and exercise adaptations for special populations.

Course Duration: 2 days, 16 hours
Participants: 20 maximum
Prerequisites: PP, Ref1, Ref2. Self-Mastery of Ref1 and Ref2 suggested

CECs

American Council on Exercise CEC's: 1.6
NATABOC CEU's: 14.5 hours
 
Reformer qualification:
Prerequisites: PP, Ref1, Ref2, Ref3

Ref-Exam Reformer series exam
The Reformer qualification exam contains written and practical components as well as a case study. Each case study will be based on information from a Polestar Pilates Fitness Screening. For Reformer, the practical requires you to defend your case study and teach a portion of an Reformer class. You will be evaluated on verbal and tactile cueing, accuracy, exercise modification, sequencing and the quality of instruction. You will also be required to demonstrate exercises successfully in front of the examiner.

Suggested completion of Self-Mastery of Ref1, Ref2 and Ref3 (approximately 50 hours), observation (25 hours), Assistant Teaching (25 hours) and Teaching/Practicum (50 hours).

None Core Study/Mentorship Programme

One of the most important features of Polestar training is the emphasis placed on self study (supervised and unsupervised) which students undertake in addition to the core training modules.

The learning and self mastery activities are essential for the student to hone and perfect his/her skills as a competent and professional Pilates practitioner.

In order to be eligible to take the qualification exam, students are required to partake in Observation, Practice (Self Mastery) and Apprentice Teaching activities. Some of these are supervised and therefore attract a fee, others do not. It is Polestar’s objective to make these activities available at a minimum cost to students.

Host sites also provide Polestar students with the option of joining their Mentorship Programme which are designed to offer Pilates classes and sessions held at the host center, at a discounted price.
Information may also be obtained from the Polestar Supervising Mentor in each country.

• Private/Semi-Private tuition
• Scheduled Group Sessions
• Observation of the conducting of Rehabilitation, Studio, Mat or Reformer sessions
• Self-Mastery Sessions-self conducted training.
• Group study sessions.
• Teaching practice sessions
• Assistant Teaching experience.