Education FAQ

Who are Pilates courses for?

  • A personal trainer or yoga instructor who wants to add Pilates to their current practice
  • A licensed massage therapist keen in adding Pilates to their skill set
  • A dancer who seeks a post-dance career that combines their professional discipline, body and movement awareness
  • An individual with personal Pilates experience who wants to translate their passion for fitness and wellness into a satisfying part-time or full-time career

What is STOTT PILATES?

STOTT PILATES is a contemporary approach to the original exercise method pioneered by the late Joseph Pilates. Co-founders Moira and Lindsay G. Merrithew, along with a team of physical therapists, sports medicine and fitness professionals, have spent more than a decade refining the STOTT PILATES method of exercise and equipment. This resulted in the inclusion of modern principles of exercise science and spinal rehabilitation, making it one of the safest and effective methods available. This clear and detailed approach forms the basis for STOTT PILATES training and certification programs. It's used by rehab and prenatal clients, athletes, celebrities and everyone in between.

Why are you touted as the "Professional's Choice"?

Since its inception over 20 years ago, STOTT PILATES has grown from a small studio into the world's most respected Pilates brand. While much has changed since we first opened our doors in 1988, our mission of promoting the ongoing benefits of mind-body fitness worldwide remains a constant. Our full-service company provides all the training, equipment and ongoing support you need to build a strong and successful Pilates business. Whether your goal is to establish Pilates group exercise programs, take your personal training to the next level, set up a fully equipped studio, or train to become a certified instructor we go the distance to help you succeed. STOTT PILATES' mission is to fulfill the needs of Pilates enthusiasts everywhere and that's why we're the number one source for everything Pilates spanning equipment, education and media.

What is the difference between the STOTT PILATES Method and other Pilates techniques?

STOTT PILATES incorporates modern exercise principles, including contemporary thinking about spinal rehabilitation and athletic performance enhancement. For example, some approaches may promote a flat back, whereas STOTT PILATES exercises are designed to restore the natural curves of the spine and rebalance the muscles around the joints, placing more emphasis on scapular stabilization. As well, there are more preparatory exercises and modifications to cater to many different body types and abilities, making it applicable to everyday life.

What are the benefits of STOTT PILATES?

  • longer, leaner muscles (less bulk, more freedom of movement)
  • improves postural problems
  • increases core strength, stability and peripheral mobility
  • enhances functional fitness, ease of movement
  • balances strength & flexibility
  • heightens body awareness
  • no-impact, easy on the joints
  • can be customized to suit everyone from rehab patients to elite athletes
  • complements other methods of exercise
  • improves performance in sports (golf, skiing, skating etc.)
  • improves balance, coordination & circulation

What are the principles behind the STOTT PILATES Method?

STOTT PILATES exercise improves core strength and balances the muscles around the joints, improving the way your body functions, looks and feels. The Five Basic Principles focus on:

  • Breathing
  • Pelvic placement
  • Rib cage placement
  • Scapular movement
  • Head & cervical spine placement

Is STOTT PILATES exercise like Yoga?

In some respects Pilates is like Yoga. Both are considered mind-body type methods of movement; both emphasize deep breathing and smooth, long movements that encourage the mind-body connection. The difference is that while Yoga requires moving from one static posture to the next, Pilates flows through a series of movements that are more dynamic, systematic and anatomically-based incorporating resistance equipment. The goal with STOTT PILATES exercise is to strengthen the postural muscles while achieving optimal functional fitness.