The Foundation Program is the exciting beginning of the Comprehensive Teacher Training Journey.
The Foundation Program gives students a solid base for teaching Mat Pilates and a thorough introduction to exercises on the Reformer, Ped-a-pul, Cadillac, and Wunda Chair.
A certificate for the Comprehensive Program is awarded after completion of both the Foundation and Graduate Programs. However, Pilates Mat Teacher Training is part of the Foundation Program, and completion of this program allows students to pursue a Mat Pilates teaching certificate
or continue on to the Graduate Program.
BASI's Foundation Program prepares students for the Graduate Program as it is a prerequisite. The Foundation Program consists of six modules (see Schedule tab), which include lectures, discussion, exercise analysis, and exercise practice.
Students are encouraged to begin their hours during the Foundation Program.
Please note: The Foundation Program includes the Mat Program.
For Mat Centralized Testing information, go to Examination Process.
Program schedule is subject to postponement or cancellation based on student enrollment.
Students will receive printed course materials, a signed copy of "Pilates 3rd Edition," and a complimentary 3-hour Student Lab with Rael to enhance their skills with a dedicated session at the end of the Foundation Program.
Module 1 - The Fundamentals
Jun 20, 2025
12:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Primary concepts covered include the 10 movement principles of the Pilates method, an overview of the pelvic region and Pilates breathing. A historical overview of Pilates is presented, plus the BASI® approach, and the importance of safety when teaching Pilates are discussed. Repertoire includes fundamental Mat and Reformer exercises. A one-hour mat class is taught.
Module 2 - Anatomy Overview Part 1
Jun 21, 2025
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Primary concepts covered include an anatomy and terminology overview: major bones, muscles, joints, bony landmarks and center of gravity. The importance and practice of cueing is discussed. Repertoire covers fundamental Reformer, intermediate Mat, Pole and Ped-a-pul. A one-hour mat class is taught.
Module 3 - Anatomy Overview Part 2
Jun 22, 2025
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Primary concepts covered include the BASI® system of movement analysis, exercise physiology, and aerobic/anaerobic exercise. The BASI® format of teaching is discussed and the Block System®, created by Rael Isacowitz, is introduced. Repertoire taught is intermediate Mat and Reformer and Leg Weights. A one-hour mat class is taught.
Module 4 - Posture Assessment
Jun 27, 2025
12:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Primary concepts covered are the principles of alignment and posture assessment. Discussion includes exercise as a tool for assessment. Repertoire taught includes intermediate through advanced Mat, intermediate Reformer, and fundamental Cadillac. A one-hour mat class is taught.
Module 5 - Core Strength: Back and Abdominals
Jun 28, 2025
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Primary concepts covered are core strength and the relationship of the various muscle groups that make up the core with particular focus on the abdominals and the back extensors. Contraindications, effective exercises and the importance of understanding your client’s needs and body type are discussed. Also addressed are the role of the teacher and the importance of flow in a session. Repertoire taught includes advanced Mat, intermediate Reformer, and Arm Chair. A one-hour mat class is taught.
Module 6 - Exercise Adaptation
Jun 29, 2025
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Primary concepts include an in-depth look into exercise adaptation and the use of assists and modifications. Lecture focuses on how to construct a complete and comprehensive program. Repertoire taught is advanced Mat, intermediate Reformer, fundamental Wunda Chair and Magic Circle. A one-hour mat class is taught. A general review of the repertoire is conducted and the online Written Examination is available at the end of the program.
For Frequently Asked Questions, please visit our FAQ page.
• Upon enrollment a $100 non-refundable registration fee plus a $400 deposit is due
• If a cancelation is received 30 days or more prior to the commencement of the first module, BASI will refund all monies
paid. (excluding non-refundable registration fee except Point #2)
• If a cancelation is received fewer than 30 days prior to the commencement of the first module, BASI will refund all
monies other than initial deposit and registration.
Tuition: $3000
All fees in USD.
*Deposit $500 (at time of enrollment)
Remaining tuition is due 14 business days before the start of the program.
Discounts:
- $250 discount when you enroll in both Foundation and Graduate Programs simultaneously.
- $500 ProBridge discount for Pilates Professionals with a Comprehensive Teacher Training certificate from another education program. Verification required.
- You can apply 50% of your BASI Mat Program tuition towards a Foundation course if you enroll in the next available Foundation course offered at the same host location or the next available Foundation course at that other location.
- BASI Refresher Discount! Audit the entire course for $1,375. Prior completion of this program is required in order to audit.
To receive any applicable discount, please contact Student Affairs after enrolling in both programs. A credit will be applied to your course tuition.
Tuition includes:
- Digital Study Guide (E-Book) *
- Digital Movement Analysis Workbooks (E-Books) *
- Written Examination
* Hard copies of the books may be purchased on the BASI Store. You must be enrolled with completed tuition payments to receive passwords to order hard-copy books.
Additional Fees:
- BASI Interactive Monthly Subscription - Pro Version $10 USD/ month
- Studio Fees for Observation, Self-Practice, and Practice Teaching. We suggest that you contact the studio for more information.
- Testing Fees for the Mat Certification - $150
