Live & Breathe Pilates are proud to be the BASI Pilates Host in Ireland and studio owner Steph is the first Irish Faculty for BASI.
In conjunction with our Teacher Training Programs, we also offer regular Mentorship Days, Workshops, Certificate Courses and Teachers Only classes to support our students.
Our goal is to bring the best education available to those embarking on their Pilates career, with a supportive
community of mentors, graduates and fellow students working and moving together.
BASI Pilates Course Dates & Pricing
| Course | Start | Fee | |
|---|---|---|---|
| BASI Pilates Mentorship Day – In Studio | 12/10/25 | €199 | Enrol Now |
| Mat Flex Program | 24/01/26 | $1,375 | Enrol Now |
| Mat & Reformer Flex Program | 24/01/26 | $3,450 | Enrol Now |
Mat Flex Course
Pilates Mat Teacher Training is the perfect vehicle for learning the principles of the Pilates Method. It is affordable, easy to integrate into different settings, and a great way to introduce people to Pilates. At BASI we regard Pilates Mat Work as the “crown jewel” of Pilates.
The Mat Program provides a thorough education in the Pilates Mat Work and its infinite applications. It is also the perfect springboard to the Comprehensive Programs that are offered in the U.S. and globally. The Mat Program is taught as a part of the Comprehensive Program and is the same curriculum for U.S. and international students.
This program follows our new Flex format consisting of four days (modules) delivered through a combination of in-studio sessions and pre-recorded lectures. In-studio modules include discussions, exercise analysis, and practice, while theoretical presentations are covered through online lectures available to view at your own pace.
Enrollment is required at least two weeks prior to the course start date. Books and videos will be released two weeks before the course begins to allow students time to review the required materials before attending in-studio sessions.
To receive a BASI Mat Certificate, students must complete the Mat Program along with 85 student hours: self-practice (40 hours), observation (15 hours), practice teaching (30 hours), and pass the final written exam. Additionally, there is a final teaching assessment and practical examination.
For Mat Centralized Testing information, go to Examination Process.
Program schedule is subject to postponement or cancellation based on student enrollment.
Deadline to enroll is February 21, 2026.
For additional information, please contact student affairs at [email protected].
BASI Mat & Reformer Flex Program
The Mat & Reformer Program provides a thorough education in Pilates Mat and Reformer work and its endless applications.
This program serves as an excellent foundation for teaching both individual clients and group classes, with the option to extend training and complete the Comprehensive Program.
The program blends lecture, discussion, practical exercise sessions, and in-depth exercise analysis for a well-rounded learning experience.
Syllabus
The Fundamentals
Primary concepts covered include the 10 movement principles of the Pilates method, an overview of the pelvic region, Pilates breathing, an historical overview of Pilates, the BASI approach, and the importance of safety when teaching Pilates. Repertoire includes fundamental Mat exercises.
Anatomy Overview
Foundational concepts in anatomy and terminology are introduced, including major bones, muscles, joints, bony landmarks, and the center of gravity. Participants will explore the importance of effective cueing and its practical application.
The repertoire focuses on intermediate Mat exercises, along with exercises utilizing leg weights. Key concepts include the BASI system of movement analysis, exercise physiology, and the principles of aerobic and anaerobic exercise. The BASI teaching format is thoroughly discussed, with an introduction to the innovative Block System, created by Rael Isacowitz.
Posture Assessment
This focuses on the principles of alignment and posture assessment, highlighting the role of exercise as a valuable tool for evaluation. The repertoire includes intermediate to advanced Mat exercises, providing a comprehensive approach to understanding and improving posture through movement.
Core Strength – Back & Abdominals
This focuses on core strength and the interplay between the various muscle groups that make up the core, with an emphasis on the abdominals and back extensors. Key topics include contraindications, effective exercises, and the importance of tailoring sessions to your client’s individual needs and body type.
The role of the teacher and the significance of maintaining flow throughout a session are also explored. The repertoire includes advanced Mat exercises, offering a deeper understanding of core engagement and control.
Exercise Adaptation
This covers an in-depth exploration of exercise adaptation, including the use of assists and modifications to meet diverse client needs. The lecture emphasizes constructing a complete and comprehensive program.
A general review of the repertoire is conducted, focusing on advanced Mat exercises and those utilizing the Magic Circle.
This program is currently offered in the Flex format:
Flex: Lectures are self-paced and online, while repertoire is taught in-studio.
Mat & Reformer Program Requirements
Attended Course: Mat & Reformer, Foundation, or Comprehensive.
One Online Multiple Choice Exam
Student Hours: 225 hours in total
45 hours of Observation
90 hours of Teaching
90 hours of Practical training
Program Examination
Please refer to Examination Process
Practice & Observation Hours
Your observation and personal practice are best done in a BASI environment, for your learning sake, and in our studio we will allow you time for observation and to practice quietly on the apparatus. You can also book in with us for paid sessions, which is highly recommended and a very important part of your learning.
Your teaching can be done at home or anywhere you can find friends or family willing to have you teach them. To teach using the apparatus, you can book in time at our studio to teach fellow students to gain hours of practice.
We provide “open studio” observation hours online and in studio. You can observe specified classes free of charge when you are one of our current BASI students and have the Student Core Membership.
We will also provide specific hours for personal practice in the studio for Reformer and Comprehensive students.
Please note that Live & Breathe Pilates is a separate entity from BASI. Our studio acts as a host for BASI, and BASI ‘rents’ the space from the host for the duration of the course days. Hosts don’t have any obligation to give freebies or deals to BASI students. However, as the owners of Live & Breathe Pilates, who are passionate about producing awesome BASI graduates and Pilates teachers in Ireland, we do try to support students as much as we can.
We offer our student discounts on our 5, 10 and 20 multi class packs for the duration of your course with Student Core Membership.
Attending regular classes and one to one training with one of our certified BASI Teachers is an essential part of your education.
BASI Pilates has long been regarded as the pinnacle of education in the method by Pilates professionals worldwide. While many programs have fashioned their education after the BASI model, none have met or surpassed the standard set by BASI’s founder and CEO, Rael Isacowitz.
Rael’s passion for excellence and love of Pilates has shaped the past, present and now the future of the method.
“I was first attracted to the program after I realised that all my favorite Pilates classes were taught by BASI-qualified Pilates instructors. I have multiple certifications and BASI has given me by far the most value.”—Kaita Lepore, Santa Barbara Athletic Club
Catch the BASI spirit. Live the BASI lifestyle. Be a BASI professional.