Pilates with Props: Small Ball - CPD Accredited from Udemy

Pilates is an amazing mind/body discipline but when you add a prop you add a whole new dimension. The small ball can refine technique, modify, intensify or progress an exercise. Pilates teachers will learn lots of new ways to challenge their clients or enable them to refine technique. The course is also useful to those of you who have a regular Pilates practice and want to change it up a bit to stay motivated.

The small ball is a very versatile and inexpensive prop which makes it one of the most useful. The small size makes it easy to store or transport to classes. It offers the benefits of alignment, stability and resistance, making it a valuable additional component to a Pilates class.

The added benefit of this course is the allocation of CPD points for instructors to submit to their membership associations as part of their annual required quota.

The course consists of a series of workshops demonstrating the various ways in which the ball can be used for each, followed by two masterclasses:

The entire classical mat sequence using my own favourite variations
A freestyle flow sequence

Take your time to practice first and then enjoy putting it all together.

What's inside

Learning objectives

How to use the small ball to transform pilates classical mat exercises
How to integrate the ball into the pilates mat sequence

How to integrate the ball into an freestyle sequence
How the ball can modify, progress, intensify the exercises and refine technique

How to use the small ball to transform pilates classical mat exercises
How to integrate the ball into the pilates mat sequence
How to integrate the ball into an freestyle sequence
How the ball can modify, progress, intensify the exercises and refine technique

Syllabus

Welcome to the course: understand what you will learn and the best way to proceed to get the most out of the course

If you are a teacher you can join the Pilates Teachers Facebook group and post any great ideas you have there for the community! https://www.facebook.com/groups/BSWPilatesTeachers/

IMPORTANT NOTE - PLEASE READ:

In the original video I completely missed out the obliques on the second side! It's impossible to redo the video in the foreseeable future so I have cut and copied the obliques on the first side and added it to where it should have been originally - about 30 minutes into the flow. I have flagged this up on the video but

please do not turn around! If you do you will be repeating the same side!!

All you need to do is stay where you are and simply lay down ready for action. Same at the end: stay facing the way you already are and just sit back in Child's pose before getting into position for Prone Leg Pull Down.

So to sum up: if you are mirror imaging me, you will have first performed the exercise laying on your right side facing the screen. When you come to it at 30 minutes into the flow you need to be laying on your left side even though I'm still demonstrating on my right side.

If you are at all confused, please send me a message. The main point is that you should do the exercise on both sides.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Offers techniques to modify, progress, and intensify exercises, which is useful for instructors seeking to challenge clients or refine their technique

Focuses on using a small ball, which is a versatile and inexpensive prop that is easy to store and transport to classes

Provides CPD points for instructors, which can be submitted to membership associations as part of their annual required quota

Explores the classical mat sequence and a freestyle flow sequence, which may help practitioners stay motivated and change up their routine

Requires access to a small ball, which may be an additional cost for some students if they do not already have one

Features a note about a correction in the video, which may cause confusion for some learners if they are not careful

Reviews summary

Pilates small ball prop techniques

According to learners, this course is a highly valuable resource for both Pilates teachers and regular practitioners looking to integrate the small ball prop into their routine. Students praise the clear demonstrations and easy-to-follow instructions provided throughout the workshops and sequences. Many highlight how the small ball effectively adds challenge, intensifies exercises, or helps refine technique and alignment. For teachers, the course offers fresh ideas for classes and is useful for CPD points. While one section of the freestyle flow video has a known editing note about repeating an oblique side, the instructor addresses this clearly in the syllabus and the video itself.

Specific video error noted, instructor provided guidance.

"There is a note about repeating a side in one video, but the explanation makes it clear how to handle it."

"Appreciate the instructor pointing out the editing error and telling us how to adjust."

"It was a bit confusing at first, but reading the note before starting the flow helped clarify the issue."

Great for CPD and new ideas.

"As a teacher, this course gave me so many great ideas to incorporate into my classes."

"Useful course for CPD points and learning new variations with a prop."

"I appreciate having the accreditation for my professional development requirements."

Videos and cues are easy to follow.

"Clear demonstrations and instruction makes it easy to follow along."

"The instructor's cues are excellent and help you understand exactly what you should be doing."

"I found the pace just right and the visuals were very helpful for each exercise."

Small ball enhances exercises effectively.

"The small ball is amazing and really helps intensify the exercises and change the dynamic."

"I loved how the small ball was integrated. It truly makes the workout more challenging."

"Using the ball in this way really helped me focus on my core engagement and form."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Pilates with Props: Small Ball - CPD Accredited with these activities:

Review Pilates Fundamentals

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Strengthen your understanding of core Pilates principles before introducing the small ball.

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Review the core principles of Pilates, such as centering, control, and breath.
Practice basic Pilates exercises without the ball to reinforce proper form.

Read 'Return to Life through Contrology'

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Gain a deeper understanding of the original Pilates method and its underlying principles.

View Melania on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of 'Return to Life through Contrology' by Joseph Pilates.
Read the book to understand the original principles and exercises of Pilates.
Reflect on how the principles can be applied when using the small ball.

Read 'Pilates' Body in Motion'

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Deepen your understanding of Pilates principles and exercises through a comprehensive guide.

View Pilates: Body in Motion on Amazon

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Obtain a copy of 'Pilates' Body in Motion' by Alycea Ungaro.
Read the sections related to mat exercises and core principles.
Practice the exercises described in the book, paying attention to alignment and form.

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Practice Classical Mat Sequence with Ball

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Reinforce your understanding of the classical mat sequence by practicing with the small ball.

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Perform the classical mat sequence with the small ball, focusing on control and precision.
Record yourself and review the video to identify areas for improvement.
Repeat the sequence, incorporating the corrections identified in the video review.

Create a Short Pilates Sequence

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Solidify your understanding by designing your own short Pilates sequence using the small ball.

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Choose 3-5 Pilates exercises from the course or other resources.
Modify the exercises using the small ball to either intensify or assist the movement.
Record yourself performing the sequence and share it with a peer for feedback.

Teach a Pilates Class with Small Ball

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Solidify your knowledge by teaching a Pilates class incorporating the small ball.

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Plan a Pilates class that incorporates the small ball into various exercises.
Teach the class to a group of friends or family members.
Gather feedback from participants and reflect on your teaching experience.

Explore Advanced Small Ball Techniques

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Expand your knowledge by exploring advanced techniques and variations using the small ball.

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Search for online tutorials or workshops that demonstrate advanced small ball techniques.
Practice the techniques shown in the tutorials, focusing on proper form and control.
Incorporate the new techniques into your own Pilates practice or teaching.

Career center

Learners who complete Pilates with Props: Small Ball - CPD Accredited will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Pilates Instructor

A Pilates Instructor guides individuals or groups through Pilates exercises, focusing on core strength, flexibility, and body awareness. This course is directly relevant as it explores how to use a small ball to transform Pilates classical mat exercises. A future Pilates Instructor can use this course to learn lots of new ways to challenge their clients or enable them to refine technique. By understanding how the small ball can modify, progress, or intensify exercises, you can offer clients more engaging and effective workouts. You also learn new ways to integrate the ball into the Pilates Mat Sequence. The course also provides insight into how to integrate the ball into freestyle sequences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Pilates Instructor

Pilates Studio Owner

A Pilates Studio Owner manages and operates a Pilates studio, responsible for everything from marketing and sales to instructor training and class scheduling. This course is directly relevant, as it provides new techniques and variations to add to your studio's offerings. The course explores how to use the small ball to transform Pilates classical mat exercises. By implementing the small ball, you are able to provide a diverse and challenging experience to clients. The course also provides insight into how to integrate the ball into the Pilates Mat Sequence, as well as how to integrate the ball into freestyle sequences.

See salaries and explore the career path for Pilates Studio Owner

Group Fitness Instructor

As a Group Fitness Instructor, you lead classes in various exercise disciplines. This course can help you diversify your offerings by adding Pilates with props to your repertoire. It explores how to use the small ball to transform Pilates classical mat exercises. Integrating the small ball into Pilates sessions could attract new participants and keep existing members engaged. You learn how the small ball can modify, progress, or intensify exercises. The course also provides insight into how to integrate the ball into the Pilates Mat Sequence, as well as how to integrate the ball into freestyle sequences. This course makes it easier for a Group Fitness Instructor to deliver new and engaging experiences.

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Corrective Exercise Specialist

A Corrective Exercise Specialist assesses movement patterns and designs exercise programs to address muscle imbalances and movement dysfunctions. This course may be helpful in enhancing your knowledge of how props can be used to facilitate proper alignment and muscle activation. It explores how to use the small ball to transform Pilates classical mat exercises. The focus on core engagement and controlled movements can be particularly beneficial for individuals with movement dysfunctions. The course also provides insight into how to integrate the ball into the Pilates Mat Sequence. The corrective exercise specialist can benefit from understanding how to use the small ball.

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Personal Trainer

A Personal Trainer designs and implements exercise programs tailored to individual client needs. This course may be useful for enhancing your ability to personalize Pilates workouts. It explores how to use the small ball to transform Pilates classical mat exercises. By learning how the small ball can modify, progress, or intensify exercises, you can offer clients more targeted and effective training sessions. You learn how the small ball can modify, progress, or intensify exercises, as well as how to integrate the ball into the Pilates Mat Sequence. This helps you in your work as a Personal Trainer.

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Exercise Physiologist

An Exercise Physiologist assesses, plans, and implements exercise programs to improve or maintain physical fitness and health. This course may give you an understanding of how props can be used to modify and progress exercises. The course explores how to use the small ball to transform Pilates classical mat exercises. Exercise Physiologists can use this program to help patients strengthen their core. The course also provides insight into how to integrate the ball into the Pilates Mat Sequence, as well as how to integrate the ball into freestyle sequences. This helps you in your work as an Exercise Physiologist.

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Movement Therapist

A Movement Therapist uses movement to help people improve their emotional, physical, and mental health. This course may enhance your understanding of how props can be used to facilitate movement and enhance body awareness. The course explores how to use the small ball to transform Pilates classical mat exercises. A Movement Therapist can use this information to add a new dimension to their therapeutic practice. The course also provides insight into how to integrate the ball into the Pilates Mat Sequence, as well as how to integrate the ball into freestyle sequences. The small ball's ability to modify and intensify exercises may be useful to this end.

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Fitness Director

A Fitness Director oversees the operations of a fitness facility, including managing staff, developing programs, and ensuring member satisfaction. This course may be helpful in adding fresh ideas for programming and staff training. The course explores how to use the small ball to transform Pilates classical mat exercises. The versatility of the small ball makes it a cost-effective and engaging addition to group fitness classes and personal training sessions. The course also provides insight into how to integrate the ball into the Pilates Mat Sequence. The added dimension to programs is beneficial to member satisfaction.

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Physical Therapist

A Physical Therapist assesses and treats individuals with physical impairments or limitations. This course may introduce you to new methods of integrating props into exercise routines. The gentle resistance and support offered by the small ball can be beneficial for patients who need to gradually rebuild their physical function. It explores how to use the small ball to transform Pilates classical mat exercises. Physical Therapists can learn how to progressively increase the intensity of exercises. The course also provides insight into how to integrate the ball into the Pilates Mat Sequence, as well as how to integrate the ball into freestyle sequences.

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Athletic Trainer

An Athletic Trainer works with athletes to prevent and treat injuries, as well as improve performance. This course could be helpful to you in understanding techniques to enhance core stability and flexibility in athletes. It explores how to use the small ball to transform Pilates classical mat exercises. The focus on core engagement and controlled movements can be particularly beneficial for athletes, helping them improve their strength, balance, and coordination. The course also provides insight into how to integrate the ball into the Pilates Mat Sequence. The small ball's versatility in modifying exercise intensity may make this appealing.

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Occupational Therapist

An Occupational Therapist helps individuals develop, recover, or maintain the skills needed for daily living and working. This course may be helpful in introducing you to new methods of incorporating exercise into activities that improve motor skills and coordination. It explores how to use the small ball to transform Pilates classical mat exercises. The gentle resistance and support of the small ball can be beneficial for patients who need to gradually rebuild their physical function. The course also provides insight into how to integrate the ball into the Pilates Mat Sequence, as well as how to integrate the ball into freestyle sequences.

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Rehabilitation Specialist

A Rehabilitation Specialist works with individuals recovering from injuries or surgeries, helping them regain strength and mobility. This course may be useful in a rehabilitation setting by introducing a low-impact, prop-assisted approach. The course explores how to use the small ball to transform Pilates classical mat exercises. The gentle resistance and support offered by the small ball can be beneficial for patients who need to gradually rebuild their physical function. Rehabilitation Specialists can learn how to progressively increase the intensity of exercises. The course also provides insight into how to integrate the ball into the Pilates Mat Sequence, as well as how to integrate the ball into freestyle sequences.

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Wellness Coach

A Wellness Coach guides clients in making lifestyle changes to improve their overall well-being. This course may be helpful in introducing clients to a new form of exercise that promotes physical and mental health. The course explores how to use the small ball to transform Pilates classical mat exercises. The mind-body connection emphasized in Pilates aligns well with the holistic approach of wellness coaching. The course also provides insight into how to integrate the ball into the Pilates Mat Sequence. By learning how to integrate the small ball into exercise routines, you can offer clients a fun and effective way to enhance their fitness and reduce stress.

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Yoga Instructor

As a Yoga Instructor, you guide students through yoga postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. While primarily focused on Pilates, this course may give you tools to to add variety and challenge to your yoga classes. The course explores how to use the small ball to transform Pilates classical mat exercises. Although the focus is on Pilates, understanding how props can be used to modify and intensify exercises can be adapted to yoga practice. The course also provides insight into how to integrate the ball into the Pilates Mat Sequence. By learning how to use the small ball, you can offer a fresh perspective on body awareness and core engagement to your students.

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Dance Instructor

A Dance Instructor teaches various dance styles to students of all ages and skill levels. This course may be helpful as it can inform how body awareness and core strength can improve dance technique. The course explores how to use the small ball to transform Pilates classical mat exercises. The focus on core engagement and alignment can complement dance training, helping students improve their balance, posture, and control. The course also provides insight into how to integrate the ball into the Pilates Mat Sequence. You may find that this translates into dance, improving one's overall form.

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Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Pilates with Props: Small Ball - CPD Accredited.

Pilates Body in Motion

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Provides a comprehensive guide to Pilates exercises, including mat work and variations. It offers detailed instructions and illustrations to help refine technique and understand the biomechanics of each movement. It useful reference for both Pilates instructors and practitioners looking to deepen their knowledge. The book can be used as a reference to understand the classical mat sequence.

Pilates: Body in Motion

Paperback

Pilates: Body in Motion

Kindle Edition

Pilates with Props

Small Ball - CPD Accredited

What's inside

Learning objectives

Syllabus

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Reviews summary

Pilates small ball prop techniques

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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