BASI Pilates

Founded in 1989 by Rael Isacowitz, Body Arts and Science International (BASI) Pilates is a contemporary style of Pilates, as well as a leading education academy for Pilates instructors. The company’s mission is “to create and maintain professional standards for the teaching of the method, and to preserve and perpetuate the gift of Pilates by educating teachers of the highest caliber.”[i]

Although based in Costa Mesa, CA, BASI currently offers teacher training programs in 100 locations and 20 countries worldwide. Advanced education courses, master-level workshops and international symposiums are also available.

BASI Method

The foundation of BASI Pilates lies in Isacowitz’ method of systematizing Pilates exercises into structured sequences. His method, known as the Block System®, enables instructors to categorize and combine each exercise in the Pilates repertoire into one or more of the following 12 Blocks [ii]:

The purpose of this classification system is to create a balanced, well-rounded exercise program, which addresses all muscles and planes of movement, through a progressive sequence of classes.

Teacher Training

BASI offers five teacher training programs [iii]:

1. BASI Fit Mat: Introductory course on the Pilates method that enables fitness instructors to teach group mat work classes

1. Mat Work Teacher Training Course (MTTC): 100-hour comprehensive course on mat exercises that is encouraged as a prerequisite to the CTTC

1. Comprehensive Teacher Training Course (CTTC): 500-hour intensive academic and practical course on the full range of Pilates exercises and equipment

1. CTTC Specializations: CTTC course combined with specialized modules in various other disciplines (e.g. dance)

1. Professional Bridging Course (ProBridge): Development course for qualified Pilates instructors who are interested in BASI methods

Each program covers a variety of subjects, including applied anatomy, physiology, theory of movement, principles of alignment, exercise evaluation and teaching methodologies. All of the courses are either designed or approved by Founder Isacowitz.

Health Benefits

Practicing Pilates can result in numerous health benefits, including improved posture, circulation and flexibility. Each exercise stems from the core, or the center of the body, strengthening the abdomen, lower back and buttocks.

Many exercise routines overwork the same muscles, resulting in muscular imbalances that lead to injury. Pilates, however, works to condition the entire body by addressing all of its muscle groups and planes of movement. This results in an evenly balanced musculature, thereby reducing the risk of injury. Many professional athletes practice Pilates for that very reason.

The Block System allows instructors to provide clients with customized exercise routines, which consider their levels of experience as well as any health conditions or injuries. Accordingly, the BASI method allows individuals to receive the same health benefits as others without compromising their personal needs or limits.

Pilates Insurance

BASI is the first Pilates educational institute to implement a group liability insurance discount from Insurance Plus in order to cover its students both during enrollment and following graduation for a total of 12 months. For $79, NACAMS Insurance Plus is offering BASI students access to professional and general liability insurance at a special first-year discounted rate.

BASI students and graduates who enroll in PIP will also receive complimentary business websites, monthly newsletters and exclusive discounts on Pilates merchandise from Insurance Plus.

Register online or call (800) 969-3189 to receive your BASI student enrollment discount today. Students must be enrolled in a US-based BASI training course for coverage to apply.  BASI graduates can also register for a professional membership with PIP at a reduced rate of $149 per year.
References:

[i] “About BASI Pilates.” www.basipilates.com/about/. Accessed Jan. 15, 2014.

[ii] “Block System.” www.basipilates.com/about/rael-on-basi/block-system/. Accessed Jan. 15, 2014.

[iii] “Teacher Training.” www.basipilates.com/education/teacher-training/. Accessed Jan. 15, 2014.