In this month’s edition of the "Ask the Expert" series, PJ O’Clair, Merrithew® Master Instructor Trainer, explores why anatomy is a cornerstone of Pilates education—and how developing this knowledge can help both aspiring and experienced instructors to excel.
When you think of Pilates, you probably picture flowing sequences and the seamless connection between the mind and body. But behind every well-executed exercise is something just as important—a solid understanding of anatomy.
For aspiring instructors, understanding the body’s structure and how it functions is crucial for designing effective, safe and personalized workout programs that support strength, flexibility and overall movement patterns. That’s why the STOTT PILATES® certification program strongly focuses on anatomy, ensuring instructors understand not just the ‘what’ of each exercise but also the ‘why and the how.
Anatomy: The Key to Unlocking Pilates
Q: How does anatomy help students understand Pilates better?
A: When you understand how muscles, joints and movement mechanics work together, you can approach your practice with greater intentionality and effectiveness, leading to long-term success in your career. Whether you’re just starting your certification journey or already teaching, a solid grasp of anatomy helps you:
- Recognize movement patterns and how the body responds to different exercises.
- Identify muscle imbalances and adjust programming to improve posture, strength and mobility.
- Cue with confidence, offering precise instructions that enhance movement efficiency.
- Modify exercises appropriately based on a client’s needs, limitations or injuries.
Debunking Common Misconceptions
Q: What are some common misconceptions about anatomy and its role in Pilates?
A: Despite its importance, there are still misconceptions about the role of anatomy in Pilates. Here are two of the most common ones:
- Misconception #1: Anatomy is complicated to understand and difficult to apply to movement. While anatomy can feel overwhelming, especially at the beginning of your career, the STOTT PILATES course breaks it down in a practical, accessible way. Understanding how the muscles work together and how alignment affects movement can empower students to improve their practice.
- Misconception #2: Pilates is all about the core, so knowing every muscle isn’t necessary. While core strength is a key focus, Pilates is a full-body practice. Every movement integrates the entire body, emphasizing alignment, mobility, stability and control—not just the abdominal and core musculature.
Applying Anatomy to Your Teaching
Q: How should students apply the anatomical knowledge they've gained to their careers?
A: Understanding anatomy isn’t about memorizing every muscle—it’s about applying the knowledge. When you understand how the body functions, you help your clients move smarter, stronger and more efficiently.
Remember, exercise patience during the learning process. Practice doing, practice teaching and practice observing how others move. Over time, you’ll gain confidence in your knowledge and develop the skills needed to become a great instructor.
The STOTT PILATES Advantage
Q: Why should aspiring instructors choose the STOTT PILATES Anatomy Course?
A: The new STOTT PILATES Anatomy & Exercise Fundamentals for Movement Professionals is designed to help you apply what you learn directly to your teaching. Here’s what makes it stand out:
- Provides the basics of exercise fundamentals, including current concepts of biomechanics.
- Discusses musculoskeletal anatomy in relation to movement rather than just the origin, insertion and action of muscles.
- Covers the body in a systematic way following the STOTT PILATES Principles of alignment and stabilization.
- Follows principles of rehabilitation like the 'integrated model of joint stability.'
- Discusses theories, including the human movement system, body adaptations, physical stress theory, lever systems and many others.
- Dives into the world of fascia and myofascial continuities.
Tips to Get the Most from the Anatomy Course
Q: Any advice for students preparing to take the course?
A: Absolutely! Here are a few tips to help you hit the ground running:
- Brush Up on Basic Anatomy Before the Course Starts: Familiarizing yourself with the names of key bones and muscles ahead of time will make it easier to follow along and stay focused on deeper concepts during the course.
- Review Anatomical Terminology in Advance: Learn the technical terms ahead of time and have them refreshed in your mind. This will help you engage more fully in discussions and exercises.
- Stay on Top of the Homework: The assignments are designed to reinforce what you learn in each session. Taking the time to work through them as they’re assigned will help the material stick and make it easier to apply to real-life teaching later on.
- Ask Questions: The more you participate and connect with instructors and classmates, the richer your learning experience will be.
Ready to Build Your Anatomy Knowledge?
If you’re preparing to become a Pilates instructor—or you’re already immersed in your studies, the STOTT PILATES Functional Anatomy equips you with the tools to understand Pilates on a deeper level. Build the knowledge and confidence you need to guide your clients safely and effectively through every session.
Exciting news! We’ll launch the NEW STOTT PILATES Anatomy & Exercise Fundamentals for Movement Professionals course in the Summer of 2025. Stay tuned for when the course will be available—you won’t want to miss this!