our method

The APPI has enjoyed immense success with training Physiotherapists and equivalent degree therapists in the Modified Pilates technique. Our success relies on our research based approach to pilates training. As physiotherapists, we recognise the demand for more specific pilates training which targets the higher theoretical and practical experience of higher degree therapists. The APPI method presents the most current research relevant to pilates and teaches a realistic framework of exercises to apply in the clinical setting.

APPI courses are largely practical and interactive. The APPI recognises that individuals learn differently, therefore its courses include practical sessions (whereby participants are experiencing, observing and practice teaching), assessment workshops (of the deep muscular system), Pilates classes (enabling individuals to enjoy the Pilates experience), case study workshops (to establish clear clinical decision making), workshops on verbal, visual and auditory cueing as well as structured lectures.

Pilates is experiencing a boom in the health and fitness worlds. There has also been a recent proliferation of traditional pilates training courses offered for the general public, fitness instructors and professional health care workers, such as physiotherapists. However, through years of studying and practicing pilates as physiotherapists, it was evident that traditional pilates courses lacked the specificity and research base for use as a clinical tool in the professional health care setting. Therefore, the APPI has modified the original 34 pilates matwork exercises to incorporate the recent research on lumbar instability, muscle imbalance and adverse neural tension. To ensure the continual development of our health care professions, it is vital that our techniques are based on scientific evidence.

'Modified Pilates' is the culmination of years of both physiotherapy and pilates training. The program is designed in 3 different streams: Matwork Certification, Equipment Certification, and the CPD program.

Matwork Certification:

Module 1: The Foundations
The first compulsory module in this program is 'Modified Pilates Matwork Level One-The Foundation'. This course is composed of the beginner level traditional 34 pilates matwork exercises that have been modified to compliment current research on lumbo-pelvic instability.

Module 2: Class Instruction:
The 'Modified Pilates Matwork Level 2- Class Instructor' course covers all you need to know to run a successful class program. We will investigate warms ups, cool downs, stretches, mobility exercises and teach you how to choreograph a great class. At the end of this you have the option to sit your class instruction exam as part of the certification process.

Module 3: Intermediate/Advanced:
'Modified Pilates Matwork Level 3- Intermediate/Advanced completes your Matwork training by looking at the higher level controlled strength exercises. We also spend a lot of time refining your teaching skills to ensure you can not only do the movements, but also teach the movements.

Certification Exam:
The final step in your certification process is the formal exam. Here you will be examined on relevant theory presented to you throughout the course in a 60 minute multiple choice exam. Following this you will be examined practically in a 30 minute practical exam looking at your pilates teaching and your clinical reasoning.

In order to consolidate your new pilates skills in the clinical setting we enforce a minimum time of three months in between completing any of your core modules. During this time you wil have structured reading, practice hours and supervised teaching to undertake. Hence, your pilates training is logically spaced over a period of 12 - 16 months to allow for practice.

Equipment Certification:

The Equipment course is only offered to those who have completed our Matwork Level 1 course or equivalent through a recognised training provider.

The equipment courses covers all main pilates equipment at each stage of the training. Each module will teach movements on the reformer, cadillac (Trapeze table), split-pedal chair, spine corrector, and the barrel.

The modules all focus on different aspects:

Module 1: Lumbo-pelvic Stability
Module 2: Scapulo-thoracic Stability
Module 3: Articulation and stretching
Module 4: Advanced Movements and Program Planning
Certification Exam

Continual Professional Development:

It is imperative that you continue to update your Pilates skills and you can achieve this through our CPD program. We have some core modules, but also present Masterclasses and workshops regularly throughout the year.

Pilates on the Ball
Pilates and Theraband
Ante-Post Natal Pilates
Pilates Small Equipment ( Foam roller and Magic Circle)

We trust that you can gain of sense of the drive of the APPI method to be the most complete and scientifically based Pilates Training program available today. We pride ourselves on our focus on evidence based exercises and look forward to taking you on this fantastic journey. The APPI method is about muscle imbalance, motor relearning, personal development, and most importantly results!