Second Wind® Method Teacher Training
An educational framework that improves your own movement ability, as well as your skill as a teacher.
Contact Laura Turnbull for more information
Teacher-Training Certification
This specialized teacher training combines classical Pilates with Integrated Movement Therapies (IMT)® to form a unique blend of functional, expressive and therapeutic movement training based on Laban Movement Analysis and the Bartenieff Fundamentals. While simultaneously preserving the essence of the original Pilates Method as it has become known to professionals worldwide, the program remains committed to a multidisciplinary approach to the study of embodied movement, advancing content and delivery without succumbing to a fast track model.
In 1998, Danielle Beléc began the Second Wind® Method Certification and Teacher-Training program in Mississauga, Ontario.
In 1998, Second Wind® Pilates Plus® was the first Pilates studio and Certification center to open west of Toronto. Today, Second Wind’s training continues to be one of the most original, thorough and longest running programs in Canada. The Second Wind® Method teacher-training program combines classical Pilates with Integrated Movement Therapies (IMT)® to form a unique blend of functional, expressive and therapeutic movement study based on Laban Movement Analysis and the Bartenieff Fundamentals.
The training addressing not only what we do, but how and why we do what we do. You learn fundamental principles of movement, functional anatomy, whole-body alignment and organization, proper biomechanics, timing and cuing, as well as therapeutic applications. Anything less is movement through imitation, which means the nervous system does not respond and our souls stay disengaged.
Prioritizing the unique personalities and learning styles of each individual who undertakes her training, Danielle guarantees mastery of movement, outstanding teaching skills and respectful service to others.
What you'll learn
Principles and Theory of Movement
Movement is an art, not just a technique. It requires timing, accuracy, awareness, and clear intention, all guided by movement principles that support your success
Technique, Phrasing, Movement Quality
Movement is broken down into a step-by-step process that evolves functional and graceful movement. It represents the wise choice of many alternatives
Purpose and Essence of each Exercise
Understanding the essence and purpose of each exercise will enable you to successfully transfer the benefits of the work to your students
Art of Teaching
This requires you to fully experience the movement in your own body, before you go out to teach. Graduates learn to see, listen, and respond with accuracy and effectiveness
Movement Rehabilitation & Exercise Modifications
Effectively choosing and communicating exercise modifications according to postural type, ability, injury and age results in an effective rehabilitation strategies
Functional Anatomy and Muscular Emphasis
Deconstruct exercises from an anatomical perspective to advance understanding and teaching skill
Teacher-Training Results
An educational framework that improves your own movement ability, as well as your skill as a teacher
A thorough understanding of The Pilates Method and Integrated Movement Therapies (IMT)®
How to build whole-body strength and flexibility for daily life and sport
How our bodies are designed to move well, both functionally and expressively
Mastery of teaching through anatomy, imagery, alignment principles and cueing
To bridge the gap between floor exercises and vertical movement for daily life
To assess clients and modify exercises with accuracy
To address the whole person towards total health
Testimonials
“The Second Wind® Method Pilates IMT® Instructor Certification Program goes beyond learning how to teach some great exercises. It is a journey into your own physical and spiritual development that allows you to work more effectively with your clients to help them find their greatest movement potential. The level of detail within the course work in addition to great hands-on teaching methods ultimately provides you as an instructor with some wonderful tools to ensure your clients receive the greatest benefits to both mind and body in a fun and safe environment. The quality of teaching and level of care that Danielle and Sara give to their students is second to none and I will forever appreciate their commitment to providing an excellent educational experience while supporting my own personal journey.”
~ Certification Graduate, Pilates Mat / IMT®/ Reformer Instructor
“The Pilates and Integrated Movement Therapies (IMT)® training in the Second Wind® Method has been ‘jam packed full’ of information. I thought I knew my body, but Danielle has opened a whole new world of mind-body connection to me. As a current certification student, what I love most about this teaching studio is how wonderfully accommodating and flexible the instructors are making it easy for me to continue working as I study at my own pace. IMT® has given me strength, mobility and pain management after I was injured in a car accident. After experiencing the success of this incredible work firsthand, I felt the need to share Danielle’s work with others. I want to make people more comfortable and happier to be in their own bodies thereby making their lives more enjoyable!”
~ Certification Student
“I chose to do my Pilates certification in the Second Wind® Method® and I am so pleased that I did. I was looking for something that would complement my skill set as a physiotherapist. Danielle Bélec’s personal work in Integrated Movement Therapies (IMT)® is a very valuable compilation of her personal experience through years of professional dance and extensive post-graduate education. I use components of IMT® daily in my physiotherapy practice. The Second Wind® Pilates Plus® Certification Program has comprehensive teaching of anatomy, breath mechanics and body awareness that assist you in understanding the material on a much deeper level. Second Wind® Pilates Plus® does not just teach you how to do the work of Joseph Pilates but makes sure you understand the concepts within your own body. This work has helped me on both a personal and professional level. I highly recommend this Certification Program to anyone who has an interest in Pilates and IMT®.”
~ Registered Physiotherapist, Athletic Edge Sports Medicine, Toronto, Ontario
“Second Wind® Pilates Plus® offers truly comprehensive and well-rounded training for the aspiring Pilates teacher. I found I was quickly and easily learning an abundance of fascinating information on anatomy and movement that has served me well and will continue to do so in my teaching career. What I loved the most about training here though, were the people. All of our instructors were kind, loving teachers who really put us, the students, first and showed genuine caring for our success. We were pushed and challenged to be the best we could be in an encouraging and empowering way, which I am quite certain gave me the courage and confidence I needed to really come into my own as a teacher. I have a ways to go and a lot of learning still to do, but the path is exciting and filled with fun and wonder due to the fact that I have such wonderful, open and generous teachers at Second Wind® Pilates Plus® whom, I have no doubt, will always be present to lend a loving, knowledgeable and supporting hand.”
~ Certification graduate
“Second Wind’s Certification Course in Integrated Movement Therapies (IMT)® and Pilates is exceptional. It has allowed me to broaden, both personally and professionally, my experience and understanding of the ways in which movement can enhance and heal not only our physical bodies, but our emotional ones as well. Danielle Bélec is an outstanding instructor who brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience that she delivers with a passion that is compelling.”
~ Massage Therapist
“I cannot believe how much this course has affected my life so far. I find ways to relate what we are learning to just about everything. Applications seem to be endless! Skating, relationships, love life, family...I love it and love what you do. Truly inspirational and the passion and eloquence with which you convey the lessons keeps me endlessly enamoured! I can’t wait to continue!”
~National Level Figure Skater / Personal Trainer
“The Second Wind Method® teacher training in Integrated Movement Therapies (IMT)® and Pilates has improved my teaching and practice skills in Yoga dramatically. This course has helped me deepen and expand my knowledge of the movement of the human body. When teaching a class, it is crucial to have the ability to analyze the student’s body type and understand their needs to give proper adjustments. The staff members at Second Wind® were very supportive of all students who took the IMT® course. They are passionate to teach us with detailed information and hands-on adjustments, until we understand the movement within our own body. I am so grateful for having this great opportunity to study with Danielle Bélec. It is an experience that I will never forget. By taking this course, Danielle has taught me to remind myself that we teach the students the awareness of their mind, body and deep breathing, instead of the pose or physical exercise.”
~ Certified Pilates and Yoga Instructor