26 replies to this topic

[Denes]

Hello,
I have mat-certification from a small Vienna studio (I completed the course about 3 years ago, It was fun, thorough, perhaps a little haphazard)
I am back in Montreal Canada, and have not been teaching since I moved back...
I would like to start again, and I am thinking of getting certified with a better known studio, and obviously not stopping at mat, but adding reformer, etc.

Here in Canada STOTT is an obvious choice, at the studio here in montreal there is one trainer I am absolutely crazy about, a few others I find a bit superficial though, just going through exercises, without necessarily adding insight.. (I must add that I have only taken group lessons from these teachers, so I know am in no position to give an informed opinion!)
I am also planning to try out the Body Control studio in Toronto, to see if I would consider getting certified through them insted...

I would be very grateful for any advice or ideas as to what certification to choose!
Thank you!

[Denes]

Let me rephrase that: I would be very grateful for other suggestions, or any insights into the pros and cons of choosing one specific certification!

Edited by Denes, 10 January 2011 - 08:46 AM.

[Pilates Core]

You can check out PMI and Body Harmonics as well. I know lots of GTA-area instructors who were certified by them who give outstanding classes. I believe there's a Balanced Body certifying studio here too, but I don't know if they have one in Montreal. Actually, I'm not sure if Body Harmonics is in Montreal...PMI is for sure, though.

[pilates07]

Peak Pilates has been doing some courses at Inspiration Pilates & Spa in Laval. The teacher is Pam Garcia (Pure Pilates, Hanover, Massachusetts).

[Pilates Core]

I've heard GREAT things about Pam!

Really, the best advice is just to go take privates from all of those certification centres and see which style works best for you.

[Denes]

That is great advice! Thanks!

[Denes]

Peak Pilates has been doing some courses at Inspiration Pilates & Spa in Laval. The teacher is Pam Garcia (Pure Pilates, Hanover, Massachusetts).

I took an individual at Inspiration Pilates and spa with one of their more experienced trainers yesterday. It was amazing! I had a lot of lightbulb moments!

I really enjoyed the Authentic Pilates aspect, had the feeling like I was seeing how Joseph Pilates must have intended some things to be for the first time in my life, and that I found really exciting! The transitions between exercises were too much!

The teacher was really good, I felt several brand new things in my body! (However I must add she is Certified by Polster 10 years ago, and worked in rehab, she got Peak certification -PPS2- more recently, When I asked her why she chose peak, I got the impression that deep down the main reason was that the Inspiration studio is a convenient place for her to work as it is near her home!)

There is a certification course starting Feb 24th, probably with Pamala Garcia (the owner said something about pamala not yet being 100% confirmed) And there is space if I want to join!

Here is my BIG question:

The trainer yesterday said that Peak was developed for Gym's, this coupled with the fact that the order of the exercises is set, and with the length of the teacher training program (2 X 3 days with the teacher trainer for PPS1, and another weekend each for PPS 2 and 3 respectively I believe?) I'm worrying that if I do my certification with Peak, I'm basically being trained, how should I put this ...to be a technician. Not as a pilates trainer who should think for themselves...
Amy comments on this worry? - If someone thinks it's totally unfounded let me know by all means!

So on the upside: Teacher trainer who is supposed to be amazing. Authentic pilates I found exciting. Course location is relatively convenient. Structured routine for me as a new teacher is a good thing.

Worries: I already have a mat certification where the diploma is itself, the actual piece of paper I got at the end, is probably somewhat less useful then toilet paper.... If I get stott certified, I could (in theory) be hired at Inspiration Pilates and Spa, If I get Peak certified at Inspiration P&S, I could not (in theory) work at stott, not that any of that matters, ...I guess what I'm getting at is does a stott certification "open more doors" then a peak certification?

More importantly; I know myself, If I become a full time pilates instructor, being a "technician" will not be enough for long (I'll want to know more) So I'll end up doing another certification in a few years, in something else...
However if I do a certification with stott here in Montreal, or in Toronto (By the way, does anyone know who the teacher trainer is at stott in Montreal, I saw one trainer at the studio here teaching a trainer about a year ago, if it is her, I would rather go to toronto!) ...So if I do a stott certification now, I have the impression I won't need to take a Peak certification in 3 to 5 years (The money I save not doing 2 certifications, I can still spend taking privates with authentic pilates trainers if I decide that really does interest me)

I guess I'm over-thinking this ... which means I'm finding it hard to take a decision.

Any comments?

Thanks for the help!
Dénes

[Pilates Core]

Peak has two different types of training: their classical certification, which is the PPS system, and the MVe system, which is the "technician", gym-type stuff. As long as you take their full, comprehensive, classical certification, you'll be learning well. We used to have a mod here who certified with Peak and could tell you more, but she's been MIA for a few months now.

[Pilates Core]

I should add: Ann studied with Pam Garcia and RAVES about her.

[Pilates Core]

I keep thinking of more things to say. Sorry for spamming your thread.

The order of exercises is always set in a Pilates class. Some of us play around with that (mostly those of us who studied contemp rather than classical), some of us don't.

As to what certification will open more doors, that depends on your area. In Toronto, where I live, 90% of studies are Stott-affiliated, meaning their instructors certified through them, and they buy their equipment. It IS harder to get a job if you've studied elsewhere, although of course not impossible.

I was really happy with my Stott certification. If you have any specific questions about it, I'm more than happy to give them a shot!

[Denes]

So what you are telling me is that both options are good ...I can choose whichever I prefer!
hmmm this sounds too good

[Pilates Core]

Most options have something going for them! As long as it's a long-term (ie 6 months or more) comprehensive certification that includes training on all the major pieces of equipment, and has a good reputation in the Pilates and general fitness industries, you should be fine. It's all personal preference after that.

[lizzie]

I know myself, If I become a full time pilates instructor, being a "technician" will not be enough for long (I'll want to know more) So I'll end up doing another certification in a few years, in something else... if I do a stott certification now, I have the impression I won't need to take a Peak certification in 3 to 5 years (The money I save not doing 2 certifications, I can still spend taking privates with authentic pilates trainers if I decide that really does interest me)

May I offer my opinion and strongly urge you not to do it this way? As far as the Peak certification goes, check out the trainer(s) who will be teaching you, including the ones you may be observing as well as the actual teacher trainer(s), and ask directly about this issue to get a good idea of whether you think you'll feel like a "technician". If you don't feel that it's a great fit for you, don't spend all that time and money on it! Do it right the first time if you possibly can. The time to decide what really does interest you is now--it will be much, much cheaper and better to spend a few months taking lessons with different instructors and getting a good grounding in Pilates before you start.

I did a full Stott certification and then recertified with Romana's Pilates. I now teach several Peak-trained instructors who want to be more "authentic" and are recertifying, or preparing to recertify, again. (This situation is specific to my area, of course-there are fantastic Peak trainers, it's just that the system here has been a bit hit-and-miss.) All of us basically feel that when we started training to be instructors, we didn't really know what was out there. I'd have saved thousands and been much more focussed if I'd known to check out all my options in the beginning.

That said, it's still true that learning never stops, certification is just the beginning, etc. But from the number of people I know who have felt the need to take two or three steps toward the training that they want, I really recommend doing your homework. If you do value the authentic/traditional approach, look into Romana's Pilates and Power Pilates as well--there might be an exceptional trainer available to you. If you're drawn toward a contemporary/evolved approach, check out Polestar and BASI and so on as well as Stott. Pick people's brains, take apprentices out for coffee, take mat classes and private lessons... it'll be worth it in the end.

[gaile]

I totally second Lizzie.The burning question should be what style of Pilates do I want to teach and then look for the best training in that style.The best training has nothing to do with the company but who the trainer is and how much experience as a teacher they have.All the big companies have trainers who have only been teaching a couple of years and do not have the experience to pass on and you will get basic training from a manual from those people because what else can they offer? Someone who is passionate about their style of Pilates and has years of exeprience and study will give you more than the basics and teach you how to see the body and what to teach it.As Lizzie says it can be a very expensive process so take your time now and the best way is to take as many privates as you can and see who makes your body feel great and look great.

Plus I should add you CANNOT learn how to teach Pilates in a few weekend modules,look for a proper apprenticeship.

[Denes]

Plus I should add you CANNOT learn how to teach Pilates in a few weekend modules,look for a proper apprenticeship.

That is exactly what worries me about the studio offering the Peak, I totally believe that Pam Garcia must be an absolutely amazing teacher, and am really drawn to this certification for that reason (I believe in Mentors to a fault, I'm subconsciously always looking for a Guru to follow...) however having talked a bit with the instructor at the Laval studio, it didn't sound to me like the studio itself has the the support system around the course that I personally would need to become an exceptional teacher.


I talked to the teacher who I really like at the stott studio here. I found out who the teacher trainer is there, I haven't taken any classes from her (I will book a private with her right away!) but having caught glimpses of her teaching I have the "first impression" that she is a good pilates instructor! However I know she really does not have much experience as a teacher trainer! She is young and has not been doing teacher training for a long time.


I have a background in folkdance, In that I know first hand how a good teacher makes thing clear, while a mediocre teacher just confuses you and gives you bad habits to un-learn... at the same time I know that I can only assimilate so much in a given period of time! I don't care how good a teacher is, you still assimilate more information from an OK teacher in X then you do from a great teacher in half that time in my opinion...

So in that sense it sounds like neither option is perfect.

I understand logically when I hear that deciding whether you want to do Authentic or contemporary is the most important question. And yet I don't know which I would prefer, and don't seem to think that that is so important in terms of where I choose to get certified! I guess this is a mistake, and I should really decide on that before anything else.

The teacher I like at the stott studio had the following advice (I was asking about taking STOTT in Toronto, with more experienced instructors) : Don't try and change your life, just take the next step. So you are interested in becoming a pilates teacher, take the mat level 1 certification that is offed here if that is what is most convenient, you can still take the next course in Toronto if you want. (Then I unfortunately had to ask if she thought it was realistic my wanting to be a pilates instructor, to which she had the same small-step type of advice: "You can keep working at your current job, and teach pilates in the evening, or vice versa, and then you have two sources of income")

I really liked this non-lifechanging, not big important decisions rather small steps advice.

I must say I really appreciate having this forum to help me clarify things. And I really appreciate all of your input. (Even if I just end up making same "stupid" choice in the end, at least it will be made with more clarity)

[Pilates Core]

FWIW, several of the Stott instructors I certified with had over fifteen years of teaching experience, which is, in my opinion, enough to qualify them to be teacher trainers.

Also, don't most courses do modules, and then have you do your apprenticeship in between the modules? I'm pretty sure that's how Peak does it, anyway. Just because you see modules doesn't mean that you don't also have to do an apprenticeship.

[Denes]

FWIW, several of the Stott instructors I certified with had over fifteen years of teaching experience, which is, in my opinion, enough to qualify them to be teacher trainers.

Also, don't most courses do modules, and then have you do your apprenticeship in between the modules? I'm pretty sure that's how Peak does it, anyway. Just because you see modules doesn't mean that you don't also have to do an apprenticeship.

That's exactly what worries me regarding the Laval studio, I'm sure the training with pam is amazing, but when I asked the teacher I was taking a private with about the 100 hours self study, and then the 85 hours apprenticeship (between PPS 1 and PPS 2), she basically said something along the lines of "don't worry, it's not such a big deal".. well maybe not to her, but it is a big deal to me!


I am going back to take a private with a less experienced instructor who has only been trained by that studio (PPS 3) recently, to see if that will give me a better idea where I would be if I did the same... and of course I will ask her the same questions, It may be more fresh in her mind, as it is the only training she received...

Out of the two choices I've been considering up to now, I'm leaning towards STOTT, exactly because (even though the teacher trainer here in Montreal really does not have many years experience), I feel that the whole "Package deal" (courses, observation, etc. etc.) that STOTT offers is really well worked out, and feels more reassuring to me.

[pilates07]

I assure you, Pam will teach you to THINK about the body/human in front of you, to TEACH them, not just to TRAIN them. If you stick to the comprehensive program, observe and teach private lessons so you can learn how to adapt to the person, in the moment, based on the nuances they present, the quality of learning is awesome (as long as you put in the time you should). I have also heard wonderful things about the Peak gal at Laval that was Polestar trained, can't speak for the rest. In all honesty, given that there seems to be no real apprenticeship anywhere in the industry, meaning as in the old days in Joe's studio, Pam's crew is the place to go. That's where I trained, and my only real regret (besides not being in NY 15 plus years ago) was being so far away that I could not do all my observation time with Pam or Clare directly, but I continue to communicate with Pam and she is always willing and able to offer assistance

To be more than just a "technician" does not mean one has to pursue tons of confusing anatomy, or look too far beyond Joe's work. To learn and teach the classical work does not mean one is merely a "technician".

I understand logically when I hear that deciding whether you want to do Authentic or contemporary is the most important question. And yet I don't know which I would prefer, and don't seem to think that that is so important in terms of where I choose to get certified! I guess this is a mistake, and I should really decide on that before anything else.

It is important as the two are as different as night and day. Because some of the exercises look similar does not mean the "feel" and impact on the body are the same (yes, I speak from experience here). If you're unsure at this point, your best bet is to continue taking lessons in each. Let your body speak to you.

Keep in mind that because of the way ALL training courses are structured (i.e. not in the "Joe's apprenticeship" type way), there will be some compromise. The trick is to pick the style you want to pursue, then pick the company that is offers the best quality program.

[pilates07]

That's where I trained, and my only real regret (besides not being in NY 15 plus years ago) was being so far away that I could not do all my observation time with Pam or Clare directly

I should qualify that, I don't live near another senior Peak teacher.. my "observation time" was unfortunately with a teacher of another discipline, more of a "fitness instructor" than a Pilates teacher really, and I learned nothing from the time.

[Denes]

I assure you, Pam will teach you to THINK about the body/human in front of you, to TEACH them, not just to TRAIN them. If you stick to the comprehensive program, observe and teach private lessons so you can learn how to adapt to the person, in the moment, based on the nuances they present, the quality of learning is awesome (as long as you put in the time you should). I have also heard wonderful things about the Peak gal at Laval that was Polestar trained, can't speak for the rest. In all honesty, given that there seems to be no real apprenticeship anywhere in the industry, meaning as in the old days in Joe's studio, Pam's crew is the place to go. That's where I trained, and my only real regret (besides not being in NY 15 plus years ago) was being so far away that I could not do all my observation time with Pam or Clare directly, but I continue to communicate with Pam and she is always willing and able to offer assistance

To be more than just a "technician" does not mean one has to pursue tons of confusing anatomy, or look too far beyond Joe's work. To learn and teach the classical work does not mean one is merely a "technician".

That sounds truly wonderful, and right up my alley! just when I was finally feeling like I was comfortable with my decision to take STOTT, I read that, and it's back to the drawing board...

The one thing absolutely everyone seems to agree on, is that I should choose whether I want to do authentic or contemporary before I decide anything else. So I'll take the advice! A question regarding that:
I really prefer the turn-out and heel squeeze of (I assume) clasical (vs the parallel legs for everything of STOTT) I also liked more c curve in the upper back(?) and the transitions As well! (which turn a session I imagine into one fluid program, as apposed to a series of individual exercises)
One thing I can't wrap my head around is the imprint... Coming from a contemporary background, having too much of a flat back myself, and having been "corrected" on that a lot, especially in the beginning, I find it hard to understand.... I also went to a chiro practor who totally independently, without my ever mentioned anything about it, also worked among other things on increasing my lordosis....
Any comments on imprint vs neutral to help me understand this aspect of authentic Pilates better would be much apriciated!
Thank you all!
Denes