Assessing a Body on the Reformer

Understanding a body moving in space on a Pilates Reformer with spring resistance is difficult. Being accurate about those corrections involves an understanding of the exercise and what is required, where the resistance is, stabilizers vs mobilizers, etc. This not only takes patience and communication with your client but also experience and developing a skilled eye. We will analyze some basic Pilates moves of footwork, abdominal exercises, extension and flexion on both the Long Box & Short Box and pelvis and scapulae stabilization to properly assess and fine tune your client's movement.

Patrick O'Brien began studying the Pilates Method in 1991, teaching clientele in 1993 & began training Instructors in 1999. He received his Pilates Certification from The Institute for the Pilates Method, Santa Fe, NM, in 1995. Patrick hosted & co-taught Core Dynamics Pilates, directed by Michele Larsson (protégé of Eve Gentry & former director at The Institute for the Pilates Method) from 1999-2002 and in 2002, began FTC Pilates Teacher Training Program. He has consulted for Core Dynamics Pilates, Powerhouse Pilates, Barrington Athletic Club, Cheetah Gyms, Mike George Fitness Systems & Wheaton Sports Center. His studio produces & hosts a wide variety of elective workshops for the Pilates Instructor including, Mechanics of Gait, Posture Analysis, Spinal Conditions, Pre & Post Natal, Conceptual Exercises, Body Assessment, Scoliosis, Neuromuscular Massage Therapy and West Coast Pilates. In 2008 Patrick will be presenting "Assessing a Body on the Reformer" at the Pilates Method Alliance in Phoenix, AZ.

Patrick is twice certified in ZenBody Therapy®, has taken workshops in Ohashiatsu Massage, Orthobionomy®, Trigger Point Anatomy & Neuromuscular Massage Therapy. He has studied various methods of martial arts, Zen meditation, danced professionally with Zero Moving Dance Company and Mordine & Company and holds and received BA in Dance from Columbia College of Chicago, IL.

Pre & Post Natal

Pilates is one of the most popular fitness routines for pregnant women. And, as Pilates clients and Instructors, each of us knows the benefits of Pilates from the basics of full body conditioning, abdominal support & control, pelvic floor muscles, breathing techniques, proper posture, joint mobility, etc. Learn how you can alter a Pilates session for a successful holistic session. This course will address and outline each trimester, pelvic floor & abdominal analysis, exercises to perform at each trimester, contraindicated exercises, the process of C-sections & natural child birth, etc. Post-partum needs are equally important as mother's want to regain their figures. Learn guidelines of when your client can come back to Pilates, deep pelvic issues, addressing weakened abdominals, how to assist to regain overall strength, the demands of breastfeeding, postural awareness and fatigue.

Sara received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science/The Chicago Medical School. She is owner and director of Advanced Physical Therapy & Health Services (APTHS). She currently specializes in the evaluation and treatment of neurological, orthopedic, and vestibular conditions, and has attended multiple continuing education courses in these areas. Sara successfully completed the Vestibular Rehabilitation Competency-Based Course chaired by Susan Herdman. She travels nationally for North American Seminars providing continuing education courses to other physical and occupational therapists, specifically for Pilates in Rehabilitation and the Evaluation and Treatment of Parkinson's Disease. She received her Pilates Training through From The Center Pilates Studios in Chicago, IL with Patrick O'Brien. Sara is also an AFAA-certified Group Exercise Instructor and an ACE-certified Personal Trainer. She is a sports enthusiast and an avid marathon runner. Sara is currently pregnant with her second child.

Spinal Conditions

Pilates has become an exercise program recommended by many healthcare professionals for those with certain spinal conditions. Pilates focuses on spinal range of motion, abdominal and back strengthening, flexibility, and breathing patterns. This course will detail the spinal column emphasizing bone, joint, ligament, tendon and disc components to open up discussion of a range of spinal conditions and how as Pilates Instructors, we can address these clientele and their needs though Pilates exercises and modifications. Conditions to be outlined will include: Ligamental damage, Herniated disc, Sciatica, Scoliosis, Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis, Osteoporosis, Osteoarthritis and Rheumatiod Arthritis.

Sara received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine & Science/The Chicago Medical School. She is owner and director of Advanced Physical Therapy & Health Services (APTHS). She currently specializes in the evaluation and treatment of neurological, orthopedic, and vestibular conditions, and has attended multiple continuing education courses in these areas. Sara successfully completed the Vestibular Rehabilitation Competency-Based Course chaired by Susan Herdman. She travels nationally for North American Seminars providing continuing education courses to other physical and occupational therapists, specifically for Pilates in Rehabilitation and the Evaluation and Treatment of Parkinson's Disease. She received her Pilates Training through From The Center Pilates Studios in Chicago, IL with Patrick O'Brien. Sara is also an AFAA-certified Group Exercise Instructor and an ACE-certified Personal Trainer. She is a sports enthusiast and an avid marathon runner.