SCIENTIFIC
VERSUS ANECDOTAL
The Polestar Pilates curriculum, designed by Physiotherapist and
Orthopedic Certified Specialist Brent Anderson, is based on a scientific
foundation, as opposed to an anecdotal one. Drawing on his extensive
background in rehabilitation and movement science, Brent Anderson
has expanded on Pilates' principles by adding manual skills, advanced
body awareness, and principles from motor control theory. The Polestar
Pilates method draws on the sciences of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics
and motor control, and integrates scientific research findings in
the areas of orthopedics, sports medicine and movement science.
INTERACTIVE VERSUS AUTHORITATIVE
Polestar's teaching method is interactive,
as opposed to authoritative. The educational approach incorporates
discussion facilitation, labs (doing, observing, teaching), problem
solving (utilising case studies and deductive reasoning), teaching
practicals (group dynamics and individuals), analysis skills, and
the principles of neuro-linguistic programming (modeling, sequencing
and structuring information, and maintaining appropriate learning
states). The Polestar Pilates method recognizes the whole person
- physically, psychologically, emotionally and spiritually.
DEDUCTIVE VERSUS PRESCRIPTIVE
Polestar Pilates Rehabilitation Series instructs students in the use of a Nagi-evolved classification system of disability. The Nagi model includes four classifications that aid in determining the severity of disability, and identifies the best path of care. The classifications include pathology, impairment, functional limitation, and disability. The use of this model improves the holistic implementation of Pilates to meet the individual needs of patients in an evidence based structure.
COMPETENCY VERSUS TIME & MONEY
Certification by Polestar Pilates is competency-based, as opposed to time and money based. Polestar accepts that some students achieve competency faster than others, and does not require that students practice with Polestar practitioners exclusively. The certification examination comprises multiple choice questions, case studies and practical demonstrations.
FLEXIBLE VERSUS FIXED
Polestar's curriculum is flexible, as opposed to fixed. Each series (Mat, Studio, Allegro and Rehabilitation) comprises four modules that can be undertaken as the student's timetable and location permits.
PRINCIPLES VERSUS REPERTOIRE
The Polestar curriculum is based on Pilates
principles - not exercise repertoire alone. This enables Polestar
practitioners to create exercise programs to address the needs of
special populations (golfers, tennis players, dancers, etc.).
INTEGRATED VERSUS ISOLATED
Polestar's Studio and Rehabilitation
curriculum is taught within the total Pilates environment (incorporating
the Reformer, Trapeze Table, Combo Chair, Ladder Barrel, Mat and
small apparatus), as opposed to offering courses teaching students
to use each piece of equipment in isolation. Students therefore
develop an integrated and flexible approach to exercise prescription
within the total environment.
INTERNATIOINAL VERSUS LOCAL
Polestar's curriculum is currently available
in numerous countries in Europe, North and South America and Australasia.
As the Program is modular; the training program may be started in
one location and completed in another if necessary. Polestar's international
presence also gives students access to a worldwide community of
Pilates colleagues, and means that Polestar Certification is known
and well accepted around the globe.
ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE
Polestar holds an Annual International
Conference in Miami, Florida each year. Pilates practitioners from
around the world convene to participate in courses, workshops, master
classes and a wide variety of movement classes taught by Polestar
Pilates Educators and guest presenters. Topics have included Advanced
Mat Work, Allegro, Classic Mat, Feldenkrais, Gyrokenesis, Nia, Tai
Chi, Yoga and Yogilates.
MENTORSHIP PROGRAMME
The Mentorship Programme available at most host sites, offers
course participants, the valuable opportunity to acquire the practical
skills and experience (in addition to the extensive knowledge contained
in the course material covered) needed to become a quality Pilates
Instructor. The programme has been designed with maximum flexibility
in mind and the participant may enroll for as much or as little
of activities on offer as they wish.
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