Certified physical therapists can earn continuing education credits and expand therapeutic practices by completing professional workshops in Pilates. The Pilates Institute of America and the Aerobics and Fitness Association of America notes that physical therapists have specialized knowledge of human anatomy and physiology, and, as such, they can typically learn Pilates poses, postures and applications at a faster rate than noncredentialed students.
Significance
Pilates exercises place a great deal of focus on flexibility, core strength, posture, and body alignment. Stott Pilates, a leading training center, notes that physical therapists can learn how to modify Pilates exercises for use in therapy sessions. Modifications may include decreased intensity or alternative postures to accommodate injuries. After learning to incorporate Pilates into rehabilitation techniques, many physical therapists will find that the techniques will gradually increase client flexibility and improve posture.
Course Content
The field of Pilates does not have a central professional organization responsible for credentialing or certification. As such, a wide variety of studios offer continuing education courses for physical therapists, and the specific course content varies according to studio. For example, PilatesCertificationOnline.com offers a series of certification courses in mat-based, reformer, and Cadillac Pilates, but these certifications are not specifically designed for physical therapists. Stott Pilates, however, offers an intensive training course specifically designed for fitness and wellness professionals, and course content focuses on using Pilates to improve musculature, flexibility, and range of motion after injury or illness.
Exams
Students typically have a period of six months to study coursework and complete a written and practical exam. At Stott Pilates, physical therapists would likely complete a level two certification, which includes a multiple choice exam and an intensive practical exam that tests concepts such as pelvic placement, posture, breathing, and rib cage placement. Trainees must score a minimum of 75 percent on these exams.
Expert Insight
The Pilates Institute of American notes that physcial therapists should seek Pilates training courses that are designed to offer continuing education credit. This ensures that the training program will be relevant to therapy professionals. It's also important to choose a training course that has in-depth practical instruction from a teacher who is well-versed in physical therapy methods. Physical therapists should research a variety of training options prior to enrolling in a course, and if in doubt they should contact their professional licensing organization for recommendations regarding local training courses in Pilates.
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