Pilates Rehabilitation Certification

Physical trainer Joseph Pilates developed much of his famed Pilates method while rehabilitating hospitalized soldiers during World War I, according to his protege Romana Kryzanowska, author of "The Pilates Method of Body Conditioning." Several Pilates machines -- such as the Reformer and Cadillac -- were invented to support fragile spines and weakened muscles as the soldiers convalesced.
Today, many physical and occupational therapists, doctors of sports medicine and chiropractors use Pilates techniques as part of their rehabilitation protocols. At the time of publication, three United States companies provide rehabilitation certification programs. Several additional programs exist for fitness professionals who want to learn Pilates techniques for post-rehabilitation training.

Phi Pilates

Licensed rehabilitation professionals can become certified by Phi Pilates in mat work and Pilates props protocols for rehabilitation scenarios. Expect to learn Pilates principles, evaluation techniques and therapeutic exercises that you can incorporate into rehabilitation sessions. The mat work program involves a seven-hour in-person workshop covering 30 exercises that address movement dysfunction. After completing the mat work course, attendees can expand their repertoire with the seven-hour props course, which adds movements using foam rollers and Pilates magic circles.

Stott Pilates

Rehabilitation therapists can become certified by Stott Pilates by taking four four-day workshops that address pelvic, spinal, scapular and peripheral joint issues. Expect to learn exercise protocols on the mat and on specialized Pilates machines including the Reformer, Cadillac, Chairs and barrels. All attendees must begin the program with the Rehab Mat and Reformer level one course; the remaining three courses can be taken in any order. After completing the four weekend workshops, expect to take a written and practical exam to complete your certification.

Polestar Pilates

Developed by physical therapist Brent Anderson, the Polestar Pilates program incorporates rehabilitation protocols within the framework of traditional Pilates training. This comprehensive certification program is open to licensed or certified healthcare professionals and requires seven two-day workshops incorporating exercises on the mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chairs and barrels. After completing the workshops, expect to take written and practical examinations to receive your Polestar comprehensive certification.

Considerations

Since each training program incorporates scores of exercises, consider taking several Pilates sessions to learn the basics before attending the program to learn how to morph the exercises for rehabilitation purposes. To ensure continuity of care, some employers require certification from a specific company. Check with prospective employers on their requirements before committing to a certification program. Some insurance providers cover Pilates training for specific protocols; check with your providers to assess how this can become part of your business model.