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BASI Pilates graduates teach all over the world and are part of an expanding family of passionate Pilates professionals.
The retreat offers two certification tracks that can be taken individually or sequentially:
MAT Teacher Training (October 13-18): A six-module intensive covering the full BASI MAT curriculum, including fundamental through advanced repertoire, anatomy, posture assessment, and exercise adaptation.
Comprehensive Teacher Training (October 18-31): The complete BASI Comprehensive programme covering all apparatus work.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Primary concepts include understanding the meaning of balance and the effects of imbalances in strength and flexibility. The lecture covers functional exercises, movement patterns, neuromuscular re-education, and muscle testing. The repertoire includes intermediate and advanced exercises on the Reformer, Wunda Chair, and Cadillac.
Primary concepts focus on the hip joint, knee joint, and ankle-foot complex. The gait cycle is explored and analyzed in detail. The repertoire includes intermediate exercises on the Reformer, Wunda Chair, and Cadillac.
This section focuses on the structure and function of the shoulder region, including the shoulder joint, its muscles, and the significance of proper shoulder mechanics. The lecture covers working with clients who have shoulder issues while emphasizing the importance of recognizing the scope of practice. The repertoire includes intermediate exercises on the Reformer, Cadillac, and Wunda Chair, with an introduction to the Ladder Barrel and Spine Corrector.
Primary concepts include the principles of training, such as overload, specificity, and reversibility. The components of physical fitness are explored and analyzed in depth. The lecture also addresses repertoire levels and their application when working with a diverse range of clients. The repertoire includes advanced exercises on the Reformer, Wunda Chair, and Cadillac.
Primary concepts include habitual movement patterns, cross-training, imbalances, and goal setting, with a focused examination of the athletic population. The lecture emphasizes teaching methodologies tailored to different needs. The repertoire features intermediate- and advanced-level exercises on the Ladder Barrel and Spine Corrector.
Additionally, this segment covers populations with restrictions, including an in-depth look at pregnancy guidelines. The lecture addresses teaching men and women with varying body types, as well as setting objectives and tailoring approaches. A general review of the repertoire is conducted.
Mat Program Requirements
*Offered in three different formats. Students have the option to choose between In-Studio, Online via Zoom or Self-Recorded Online.
Comprehensive Program Requirements
*Offered in two different formats. Students have the option to choose between In-Studio or Self-Recorded Online.
***If you need to retake one portion of the exam, practical or teaching, please reach out to info@basipilates.com to be enrolled into an exam.
Tuition, cancellation and auditing policies vary by location and licensee. Please refer to individual course details for more information.
In the USA the final Practical exam and final Teaching Evaluation are conducted at a Centralized Testing location. For international students, the final practical exam and teaching evaluation may be taken during the next program held at your Host Studio location, or during any program held at a Host Studio location worldwide.
Program Requirements & Examination Process:
https://www.basipilates.com/education/exam-process/
For more info reach out to:
October 11–16, 2026: MAT Teacher Training (5 nights / 6 days)
October 17–27, 2026: Comprehensive Teacher Training (10 nights / 11 days)
7:15-8:00
Optional Meditation or Walk in Nature
8:00
Morning Tea, fruit, light snack
8.30-12.30
BASI Mat Class & Teacher Training Mat Modules
12.45
Sumptuous Fresh Vegetarian Brunch
13.00
Free time: Rest, Swim, enjoy a massage session Options for extra Yoga or Pilates private Sessions.
16.00-17.15
Option: Student practice & teaching
17.30-19.30
BASI Mat Teacher Training
20.00
Dinner & enjoying the sunset
21.00-22.00
Extra Options: Restorative Yoga Nidra/ Deep Relaxation or Q&A
Arrivals
5 - 6pm (not before 3pm please)
6 or 6.30pm Welcome circle… Easy introduction practice, dinner, and early bed time.
Departures
Normally after brunch… Latest by noon…
Sometimes we may have to ask for an early room check out by 10.00—11.00am
Extra Trips or Activities
Afternoon or evening excursions to the local area can be planned directly through Zen Rocks
Previous Mat practice is a plus but not entirely necessary.
Previous teaching experience especially in movement a great plus.
If you are an experienced movement practitioner even in other modalities like yoga, fitness, dance, you would be able to follow this rigorous fun and strengthening, therapeutic training.
Acceptance of your application
Payment of Fees
For more information/registration contact info@nysystudios.com
Retreat Package (including Accommodations, Program Fees & Scheduled Meals).
The prices are per person. City tax applies on top of the quoted rates.
Zen Rocks will assign roommates in the shared accupancies, according to the registration type.
Accommodations
Program Fees
Τwo delicious vegetarian meals a day (brunch and dinner) and early breakfast
All Pilates Mat/Yoga equipment and accessories
Biodegradable toiletries
Transfer to and from Zen Rocks Mani
Transfers around Zen Rocks and the area
Additional therapeutic treatments or private yoga sessions where applicable.
Deposit:
50% of the total to be paid with your reservation.
Balance Due:
Rest of balance 14 days before course starts
Refunds:
First deposit of 50% refundable minus 100€ for handling fees if cancelation is made up to 30 days before the retreat begins.
After that it becomes non refundable, as well as all next deposits.
No refunds after course starts.
Foivi is proud to be a member of the BASI Pilates family. A graduate of the BASI Comprehensive Program, Foivi has also completed the prestigious BASI Legacy Program - a multi-year advanced course, personally created by BASI founder Rael Isacowitz for seasoned instructors seeking to deepen their mastery of the method.
Her Legacy journey includes the Mentor Program in Italy, Master I and Master II in the UK with Ilaria Pulidori and Maria Syllas, and culminates with the Honors Program at BASI Headquarters in Newport Beach, California, under the direct mentorship of Rael Isacowitz himself.
Foivi’s introduction to Pilates came in 2006. By 2010, she had already become an assistant faculty member at a Pilates school in Athens, studying under the legendary Alan Herdman. A defining moment in her career occurred in 2009 at the BASI Symposium in Athens, where a class with Rael Isacowitz inspired her to fully dedicate herself to the BASI method.
Since then, she has actively participated in international workshops and remains an engaged. To her, movement is not just physical activity — it is a form of self-expression, a journey of personal evolution, and a means to discover true freedom.
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All our retreats aim to create a nurturing and welcoming environment for all levels of practice and all student needs. All programs offer the opportunity for a dose of daily good exercise through yoga or pilates, walks in nature and/or swimming in the sea, and both restorative and meditation practice. A weekly program offers a complete experience of well-being. Our teachers are highly experienced and skilled. If a program seems enticing to you, it is probably the one you need. Make a bold step and trust it: Go for it!
Absolutely! Our friendly staff and group of guests/friends will make you feel right at home. Surrounded by good company, with space to be on your own, according to your needs and wishes.
Yes. As long as one understands and respects the philosophy of Zen Rocks, your partner can join in the daily activities, or feel free to relax and follow their own schedule. Your friend or partner will feel warmly welcome at Zen Rocks.
Book early, as soon as you know the retreat you are interested in, and your schedule. Click here to send us your questions or to register. Link: REGISTER
We would be happy to help arrange your transfer from Athens or Kalamata to Zen Rocks.The retreat is located about 30 minutes south of the city of Kalamata, in a quiet olive grove amidst sea and blue skies. The closest village to us is Kalianeika, about one kilometer from us. There is airport access both from Athens Airport (3 hours from ZR) and from Kalamata Airport (30-40min from ZR).
-Flights to Athens International Airport (ATH) and transportation to Zen Rocks
All major airlines fly to Athens international airport, called Eleftherios Venizelos. Zen Rocks is about a 2.5-3 hours’ drive from Athens. We can arrange a private transport for you and/ or your group or you can rent a car to drive yourself to Zen Rocks. The ride is beautiful, and you can enjoy a direct ride along the new Athens-Kalamata highway, or you can make stops in places like the sites of Ancient Mycenae, Ancient Nemea, the city of Nafplion, and the town of Kalamata.
-Flights to/from Kalamata (KLX)
More and more there are direct and/or charter flights to the small airport of Kalamata from different European cities. Also, new 30 minutes flights have just started from Athens to Kalamata regional airport are very reasonably priced if booked well in advance.
Alternatively, you can fly to Kalamata from the northern Greek town of Thessaloniki.
-Transportation options while in Greece
The way to reach Zen Rocks is either with our luxurious Mini Van for 8 people or by renting a car from Athens or Kalamata and drive around on your own. Our office can assist you with your car rental reservation. Or you can make your booking directly. During your stay at Zen Rocks our minivan is available for hire along with an experienced driver. The rates for transfers with our minivan are in the attached document titled: ZenRocksRates.
Allow us to book your transfer from Athens or Kalamata. Simply email us at: info@zenrocksmani.com
The retreat is located about 30 minutes South of the city of Kalamata, in a quiet olive grove amidst the sea and blue skies. The closest village to us is Kallianeika.
1. Drive on the new freeway from Athens to Kalamata, and be prepared to stop frequently for tolls. Expect to pay around 15€ each way. It may take you 2-2.5 hours to reach Kalamata.
2. Stay on the freeway and exit Kalamata heading towards Areopolis and Kitries. After the freeway ends, you will pass Lidl, and a café called Cosi on the right, and then the road forks and you see a road sign. At this point you have the option of heading up towards the mountain towards Areopolis and Kardamyli, or taking a right towards the sea and Kitries. You can reach us either way. We are giving you directions through the coastal road here, as it may be easier to find our location this way.
3. Take a right towards Kitries and drive down the coast for about 10-15 minutes. Right as you approach Kitries, the road goes uphill. There is a big retaining wall right in front of you, causing you to almost stop. You see a road sign for Doloi.
4. Make a sharp left up the mountain towards Doloi.
5. Drive for 5 minutes until you reach the village of Kalianeika.
6. When you reach Kalianeika, stop in front of the church and set your odometer to 0.
7. Drive for one kilometer, and you will come to switch back turn where you will see a fence with big cacti and a huge rock. You are getting close.
8. Immediately afterwards, you see a second switch back turn and a couple small signs for Zen Rocks. At this point leave the asphalt road and enter a smaller cement farm road. Drive 200 meters on cement, and then another 400 meters of dirt road. At this point you will see the electrical posts and a cement road up on your left. This is our private drive way to Zen Rocks.
(Attention: our drive way is the SECOND paved road you see on your left. Do not take the first one, right where the cement ends… wait till you drive the extra 400 meters of dirt and pebble road and you come across the electrical wires and big posts… at this point you will also notice that the farm road you are on is covered with the cement of our paved drive way.)
9. Go left on our cement road. It is a sharp incline. Come up on first gear and full throttle. Small cars will do fine if you know how to drive fearlessly.
10. Welcome to Zen Rocks.
As Zen master Thich Nhat Hahn says: YOU HAVE ARRIVED!
Το Zen Rocks Mani βρίσκεται σε απόσταση περίπου 30 λεπτών Νότια από τη πόλη της Καλαμάτας, ανάμεσα σε ήσυχους ελαιώνες, τον ουρανό και τη θάλασσα! Το κοντινότερο χωριό είναι τα Καλλιανέικα.
1. Πάρτε τη νέα εθνική οδό απο την Αθήνα προς τη Καλαμάτα οπου θα χρειαστεί να σταματήσετε συχνά σε σταθμούς διοδίων. Υπολογείστε οτι το συνολικό κόστος των διοδίων θα ειναι 15€ η διαδρομή. Η απόσταση ειναι περιπου 2-2.5 ώρες απο την Αθήνα μέχρι να φτάσετε στη Καλαμάτα.
2. Μείνετε στην εθνική οδό και βγείτε στην έξοδο της Καλαμάτας με κατεύθυνσή προς Αρεόπολη και Κιτριές. Όταν τελειώσει η εθνική οδός, θα συναντήσετε ένα σούπερ μάρκετ Lidl και μια καφετέρια στα δεξιά σας που ονομάζεται Cosi. Σε εκείνο το σημείο ο δρόμος χωρίζεται και θα δείτε μια πινακίδα. Σε αυτό ακριβώς το σημείο, έχετε την επιλογή είτε να συνεχίσετε προς το βουνό με κατεύθυνση προς Αρεόπολη και Καρδαμύλη είτε να πάρετε το δρόμοι που είναι στα δεξιά σας που πάει μέσω του παραλιακού δρόμου στις Κιτριές. Όποιο δρόμο και να πάρετε μπορείτε να έρθετε στο Zen Rocks Mani. Εμείς παρακάτω σας δίνουμε οδηγίες από το παραλιακό δρόμο μιας και θεωρούμε ότι είναι ο πιο εύκολος δρόμος για να έρθετε.
3. Κάνετε δεξιά προς Κιτριές και οδηγείτε στο παραλιακό δρόμο για περίπου 10-15 λεπτά. Στο σημείο που έχετε φτάσει σχεδό στις Κιτριές, ο δρόμος έχει μια ανηφόρα. Στο σημείο αυτό υπάρχει ένας μεγάλος τοίχος μπροστά σας που σας αναγκάζει σχεδόν να σταματήσετε. Εκεί βλέπετε μια πινακίδα προς Δολούς.
4. Εκεί αριστερά προς το βουνό με κατεύθυνση προς Δολούς.
5. Οδηγείστε προς τα επάνω αυτόν τον δρόμο με τις στροφές, για 5 λεπτά μέχρι να βρείτε το χωριό Καλιανέϊκα.
6. Όταν φτάσετε στα Καλιανέϊκα, σταματήστε μπροστά από την εκκλησία και ρυθμίστε το μετρητή χιλιομέτρων σας στο 0.
7. Οδηγείστε για 1 χιλιόμετρο και θα δείτε μια στροφή φουρκέτα, η οποία σας φέρνει προς τα δεξια. Εκεί θα δείτε ένα φράχτη με μεγάλους κάκτους και ένα τεράστιο βράχο. Πλησιάζετε!
8. Αμέσως μετά βλέπετε μια ακόμα στροφή φουρκέτα που στρίβει τον δρόμο προς τα αριστερά. Θα δείτε δύο μικρές πινακίδες για το Zen Rocks. Σε αυτό το σημείο αφήνετε το ασφαλτοστρωμένο δρόμο και μπαίνετε προς τα δεξιά σε έναν μικρό αγροτικό δρόμο από τσιμέντο.Οδηγείστε για 200 μέτρα στο τσιμεντένιο επαρχιακό δρόμο και άλλα 400 μέτρα σε χωματόδρομο. Ακολουθήστε τις πινακίδες για να μην μπείτε στον ελαιώνα που είναι πριν από εμάς. Περιμένετε να δείτε το σημείο με την πινακίδα του Zen Rocks να δείχνει τον ανηφορικό ιδιωτικό τσιμεντένιο δρόμο στα αριστερά σας. Είναι που θα σας φέρει στο κατάλυμα.
Σε αυτό το σημείο και μόνο θα δείτε και τους στύλους της ΔΕΗ να ανεβαίνουν προς τα πάνω.
9. Κάντε αριστερά σε αυτόν τον τσιμεντένιο δρόμο. Έχει έντονη ανηφορική κλίση, οπότε βάλτε πρώτη ταχύτητα για να ανεβείτε. Ακόμα και μικρά αυτοκίνητα ανεβαίνουν άνετα. Είναι λίγο σα να ανεβαίνετε ίσια πάνω στον ουρανό, στα σύννεφα… Απογειώνεστε λοιπόν.
10. 5 Δευτερόπτα μετά: Καλώς ορίσατε στο Zen Rocks Mani. Χαλαρώστε και απολαύστε τη διαμονή σας!
Όπως λέει και ο δάσκαλος του Ζεν Thich Nhat Hahn: You have arrived! Pause. Enjoy!
Let us know about your needs and preferences and we can pre-arrange the perfect nurturing massage or related therapy session for you.
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Elegant room with private entrance from main Villa foyer/kitchen, and nicely furnished balcony with open garden & sea views. Hand crafted elegant wooden furniture, Cocomat mattresses, organic cotton sheets & pillows, special lighting. Organic kourasanit floors (made of river sand) and bathroom walls.180 degree Panoramic Seaview.
Comfortable spacious suite with private entrance from main Villa foyer/kitchen,and nicely furnished balcony with open garden & sea views. Hand crafted elegant wooden furniture, Cocomat mattresses, organic cottonsheets & pillows, special lighting. Organic kourasanit floors (made of river sand) and bathroom walls. 180 degree Panoramic Seaview.
A sea of tranquility, this double or twin room rests on the upper floor of each Villa, with its own external stone staircase. The room opens to a private small balcony with expansive sea and sky views. Thisupstairs oasis also features a large private terrace, your own 40 square-meterprivate sun deck, and star gazing arena.
The area of southern Peloponnese known as “The Mani’ is a very special place. Its location on the edges of southern Europe, its tempestuous history and its natural beauty, all combine to give the visitor an exceptional experience.
The Retreat is located about 30 minutes south of the city of Kalamata, in a quiet olive grove amidst a stunning nature spread of olive groves and rocky terrain. Kalamata is about a 2-2.5 hour drive from Athens on the Southern tip of the Peloponnese. Kalamata’s location marks the beginning of the incredible Mani, a peninsula stemmed by the magnificent Taygetos Mountain range, which also features some of the most picturesque seaside small towns, variegated beaches, byzantine churches, medieval Towers, and traditional stone-housed mountain villages.
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Zen Rocks employs only local people and makes every effort to source only local food produce. Materials are also local wherever possible, the walls are madewith local stone and a local family of furniture makers are responsible for the beautiful hand carved stools, benches and bed heads. All organic waste iscomposted, it's plastic free where possible, and guests are invited to conserve water. Bathroom products are natural, the bed linen is organic cotton and themattresses are made with coconut fibre.
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