BASI Faculty Ed Botha, Shares His Mentor Program Experience

This September I made the journey from Sydney to Newport to attend the Mentor Program. There were a couple of reasons why this trip proved to be extra special. Firstly, I was given the opportunity to assist on the Program, which is obviously any BASI faculty’s dream come true.

Secondly, it was my first visit to the new BASI Pilates Academy, and all I can say is,”WOW”! I can’t quite put my finger on it, but there is something really special about the new studio.

After registration on the first of the three days, we started with some of the attendees introducing themselves. It was fascinating to hear the stories and backgrounds from the different attendees. What was apparent from the start was, that the Mentor program attracted and brought together people from all backgrounds and cultures. United States, Korea, China, Japan, Italy, Spain, South Africa, Brazil, United Kingdom and Australia were all represented. Although we were all so culturally different, we had one thing in common. BASI Pilates. If I am not mistaken, it was the first time that all attendees came from a BASI training. Different countries, but the same Pilates language!

Every morning after our brief chat and introductions, Rael would start the teaching day with a Mat class. I was there to assist during the classes, so I had mixed emotions the first two days. Envious and relieved at the same time. The classes were tough. I can honestly say that, I have never witnessed so many Jackknives and Teasers in succession! I would highly recommend that you look out for those two downloadable classes on the BASI site. The third day the group unanimously voted that I take part in the class, and Rael delivered. Being part of such a passionate and capable group can only be described as ‘meditative’. You could feel the energy that the group exhumed, making any possibility of quitting impossible.

There is so much to be said about the content of the Mentor Program. There are exercises that are practical, challenging, and some possibly out of my reach. But, there is one thing for certain, the program is packed full of Rael’s never ending supply of passion and knowledge. I am always in awe of his endless ability to captivate an audience with his charisma and charm.

Although I was assisting I felt like I had a team carrying me all the way. I had the pleasure of sharing the experience with other BASI faculty and friends, who like myself, were repeating the Program. The atmosphere was positive and encouraging all weekend. We witnessed people blossom in character and in movement. There were birthday celebrations, there were tears of joy and plenty of sweat.

Finally, the experience would not have been the same without the meticulous organisation from Stella and her team of BASI Academy staff. The weekend flew by way too quickly. I have little doubt that I will be repeating the Mentor programme many times in the future. I hope the next time I will see you all there!

Ed Botha