FAQs
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q. I just started Pilates, am I a good candidate for participating in the Matwork Teacher Training or Comprehensive Global Program or do I need more experience?
Q. What is the difference between BASI Pilates and other Pilates training organisations?
This is a very important question and one we are proud to outline.
The underlying philosophy of the BASI educational program is a true synthesis of the physical, the emotional and the spiritual. Combining repertoire, process and athleticism into a structured process, BASI Pilates is a leader in the Pilates community, with a curriculum-based educational program. A contemporary approach includes the heart of the BASI program, the Block System™, offering a specialised technique for classifying and combining hundreds of exercises in the Pilates repertoire.
BASI Pilates is a true blending of the Art and Science of human movement, relating specifically to the works of Joseph H. Pilates. BASI Pilates honours and preserves the legacy of Joseph and Clara Pilates: presenting the original principles and repertoire (utilising all the Pilates equipment), at the same time integrating contemporary scientific developments and evolution of the method.
BASI Pilates courses are fully supported with printed and electronic materials, including our Study Guides, six Movement Analysis Work Books and DVDs. In addition, BASI students receive credits for the use of Pilates Interactive, the unique online teaching resource, with hundreds of exercises, workouts and instructional tutorials in high-quality video. Pilates Interactive is the first of its kind in the world.
Outlining the unique qualities of BASI Pilates world wide would not be complete without introducing you to the select teaching team that comprises our Faculty. Each Faculty member is a seasoned Pilates professional who has undergone a rigorous selection process and been chosen to represent BASI due to their knowledge, passion and dedication to the work of this unique program. With a combined total of over four hundred years of Pilates experience between them, this group of talented individuals offers the highest level of professionalism and quest for knowledge. With varied backgrounds in movement training including dance, academia, physical therapy, martial arts, and equine training this diverse group offers a unique combination of experience and discipline. We are extremely proud of our rich teaching team.
No program is more trusted than that offered by BASI Pilates. We continue to set the standard of Pilates education that all other programs strive for. We look forward to meeting you in person soon and showing you these are not just words but a belief system backed by action.
Q. Which BASI Education Program is right for me?
BASI is proud to offer several programs to meet your personal and professional goals. Find your program and learn more.
Q. I have completed another organisation's training. Do you have a bridging program?
The ProBridge (Professional Bridging Program) is open to qualified Pilates teachers who have completed a Comprehensive Pilates teacher training of 450 hours and experience on all apparatus in all levels.
If a ProBridge Program is not offered in your area, the Global Comprehensive Program is the better alternative. BASI Pilates Australia will give students with previous Pilates certification a discount off the Global Comprehensive program. This will be looked at on a case-by-case basis. The Observation, Self Practice and Student Teaching hours will also be amended on a case-by-case basis.
PROOF OF PREVIOUS CERTIFICATE IS REQUIRED.
Q. I have completed the BASI Pilates Matwork Teacher Training and want to take the Comprehensive Global Program. Will I receive a discount on tuition?
Returning Matwork Students will receive 10% off the Comprehensive Global Program when registering in an Australian BASI Pilates course.
Q. If I register for a course and cannot attend, do I get my money back?
Our refund policy is also stated in full in the Enrolment Agreement for the particular program in which you enrol. In the event of any discrepancy between our website and the Enrolment Agreement, the Enrolment Agreement shall prevail.
Q. What can I do to prepare for my BASI Teacher Training?
- Pilates Anatomy – Rael Isacowitz, Karen Clippinger
- Pilates (2nd Edition) – Rael Isacowitz
These will provide you with an excellent and strong foundation for your upcoming studies!
Q. May I complete modules in more than one location?
Q. What happens if I miss a module?
Students have one year to make up missed modules and must attend all modules to qualify for taking Final Practical Exam and Final Teaching Evaluation for the Teaching Credential.
Please contact BASI Australia if you would like to know more.
Q. What happens if I get pregnant or injured during the program?
BASI reserves the right to request a doctor’s release prior to your return. Tuition fees will be held up to one-year and will be applied to the program and location of your choice.
Q. How can I complete my hours of Observation if there are not any BASI Pilates instructors for me to watch in my location?
We can work with you and provide you with alternative ways to obtain the remaining observation hours, please contact BASI Australia.
Q. How many hours of Self-Practice and Student Teaching are expected of me and how do I get these hours?
Self practice hours are spent practicing on your own, with other students or taking private sessions and/or group classes taught by BASI instructors.
Student teaching hours are spent teaching other students, family members or friends and eventually clients. Students are to begin their self practice and student teaching hours as soon as they start the program and learn the repertoire.
Hours are to be obtained at any host studio, partner studio or any studio that will allow you to use their space.
Q. Where can I get insurance to teach if I am still a student?
Q. How long does it take to complete the requirements of the program?
However, if students need more time, contact BASI Pilates or your licensee representative to ask for an extension. If students do not complete or pass their requirements within 3 years of their program, BASI may require students to repeat 50% of the program at cost.
Q. What exams are required to complete the Matwork Teacher Training or Comprehensive Global Programs?
Comprehensive Global Program
Passing grade of 70% or better on all examinations
Final multiple choice Exam
Practical and Teaching Examinations
Submission of Student Paper
Matwork Teacher Training
Final Written Exam
Final Practical Exam
Final Teaching Evaluation
Q. What am I to expect on my Centralised Testing Day?
Both Mat and Comprehensive students will be tested on the same day. You will be able to use your fellow students as clients for your practical assessment unless you chose to bring in a client. Depending on the size of the host studio there will be a few students all doing their teaching evaluations at the same time while a BASI faculty member observes and assesses.
Students testing for the Comprehensive Global Program will be required to;
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- teach a 1 hour intermediate/advanced workout (across at least 2 machines eg – reformer and tower).
- perform 4 exercises (3 machine and 1 mat). These exercises will be picked at random on the day.
- Students testing for the Matwork Teacher Training will be required to;
- perform 4 mat exercises. These exercises will be picked at random on the day.
- teach the same 4 exercises to a client/fellow student.
A BASI faculty member will be in touch following your testing to discuss your results and any feedback.
Please note: You will need to reserve your placement for Centralised testing . Centralised testing dates in both Sydney and Brisbane are all listed on our website.
Q. What happens if I miss the day of the exam?
All practical exams and teaching evaluations in Australia are done at “centralised” testing locations multiple times per year and students pre-register for selected time blocks.
Q. What happens if I do not pass my exams?
If you do not pass your final written exam, it can be retaken at a later date. For teaching and practical, we encourage you to retest when you feel 100% confident with your work.
Please contact BASI Australia to make arrangements. Additional fees may apply.


