CLASSICAL Progressions
An Exclusive 15-Month Masters Program
Only 12 Students Per Class
1 EXERCISE – 500 VARIATIONS
ENDLESS LEARNING PATHS
Together, we’ll unlock the keys to the system of classical Pilates so that you’ll feel more confident in your teaching and personal practice.
Spring Term Begins April 9th, 2024
ARE YOU READY FOR CHANGE?
With this program, you’ll gain…
Confidence
You’ll gain confidence in your teaching and understanding of the Pilates method. You’ll be able to create impactful programs for your students, face any challenge that comes your way and advance your practice.
Clarity
With a deep comprehension of the classical system, you’ll understand exactly what exercises to choose for your students and why. You’ll see the patterns of progressions develop and how to use them.
Mastery
You’ll progress through the classical system step by step over 15-month. With detailed exercise breakdowns and weekly practice, you’ll gain both physical and intellectual mastery over classical Pilates.
My teaching has shifted drastically because my understanding of the system is so much deeper. I’ve always thought of myself as a good teacher with a good eye but now my understanding of the body along with the Pilates system is deeply enriched with the lessons from Karen, that my passion has been reignited and I am not searching for ‘the next best thing’ to add to my ‘teacher’s tool box’. It is all right here!
DOES THIS SOUND FAMILIAR?
I know all the exercises, but I still can't put all the pieces together
I learned all the exercises and rules in my primary certification, but I know there’s more to the system. I want to learn the logic behind the orders.
I take workshops, but the information is disjointed.
Workshops are great, conferences are amazing, but I get bits of information that I have trouble putting together. I can’t see the full picture.
Progressing students is a bit of a mystery.
I’m not sure how to progress my students effectively. I’m following the guides I was given in certification, but I’m not confident I’m really addressing their needs. I feel a little lost.
I'm so frustrated
I’ve been through certification, taken workshops, continuing education, and it still doesn’t make sense. Will it ever make sense?
I want to bridge into Classical Pilates, but I don't know how
I’m curious, I want to learn more, but programs are intimidating. I want to learn the roots of Pilates but I don’t want to go through another primary certification.
I don't know how to progress my own work
I used to workout regularly when I was in training. Now that I’m on my own, teaching and running a business, I don’t always get my workouts in. I miss having a group to workout with and talk about what we’ve learned. I miss having eyes on me and guidance in my workouts.
It’s time to let go of the confusion and move into mastery.
I Get It.
Your Story is My Story Too.
I my first lesson with Jay Grimes he said to me “Pilates is one exercise with five hundred variations. And do you know what that exercise is?”
I stared at him blankly. After years of teaching, it was something I felt I should have known. And I didn’t.
“The double leg-pull. It has everything. The breath, the strong center, and the two-way stretch. – And you can find it in every exercise.”
Seriously?
So, with a determined curiosity, I went back to the studio. I did every exercise on all the apparatus. It took me three hours and I couldn’t move the next day.
Jay was right and my mind was blown.
That was almost 25 years ago. That one question – that one lesson – fundamentally changed my understanding of Pilates and the course of my entire career.
That’s when I finally started to understand that Pilates was more than a series of exercises.
I learned how everything was connected.
The Reformer and Mat orders finally made sense. The system made sense and everything changed.
I could easily put together a great session on the fly, handle student that came through the door because I understood the purpose of each and every exercise.
I CREATED THIS PROGRAM FOR YOU
To pass on every bit of wisdom and knowledge Jay Grimes and Romana Kryzanowska have passed on to me.
To help you let go of the overwhelm and move from confusion to clarity and teach with confidence.
Only 12 Spots Available
WHAT WE DO
- We cover more than 350 exercises on all the classical apparatus: the Reformer, Mat, Cadillac, Wunda Chair, High Chair, Ladder Barrel, Arm Chair, Ped-O-Pul, and small apparatus.
- Take a deep dive into the logic of the classical Mat and Reformer orders
- Look at the mechanics of the apparatus so we can learn to use it more effectively
- Analyze how to progress students from the fundamentals into the intermediate and advanced exercises
- Review anatomy and how it relates to the exercises in each level.
- Look at the biomechanics of each exercise
- Explore the history of Joseph Pilates and his method through a cultural and historical lens.
HOW WE DO IT
Here’s what’s included in the program
- 4 Modules – Foundations, Intermediate 1, Intermediate 2, and Advanced taught in eleven-week terms
- 44 two-hour seminars (All sessions are live-streamed and recorded)
- 11 weekly workouts
- 10+ hours of additional content
- Illustrated workbooks for every module
- A full exercise encyclopedia (Over 350 videos)
- A private forum for continued learning, support, and connection with classmates from around the world
- 24-month access to all the course materials and session replays
- 15-month membership to the Mastery Series
- 33 NCPT CEC Credits per completed module
MODULE PRICE $1999
or 3 Monthly Payments of $668
TOTAL PROGRAM COST $7996
(plus books and supplies)
2024 Spring Meeting Times
Classes Start April 9, 2024
Workouts – Tuesdays 3 pm – 4 pm Pacific
Seminars – Thursdays 3 pm – 5 pm Pacific
2025 Winter Meeting Times
Classes Start January 7 , 2024
Workouts – Tuesdays 9 am – 10 am Pacific
Seminars – Thursdays 9 am – 11 am Pacific
Ready to Go?
1. Send in Your Experience Form
This form allows us to get to know you and see where you are on your journey.
2. Schedule Your Assessment
3. Pay Your Deposit and Get to Work
If you’re approved, you’ll receive a link to pay your initial deposit, the Foundations book list if you want to get ahead in the assignments, and access to the course portal.
Questions?
“As a studio owner for over seven years, I struggled with wanting to build a framework around revenue and another around wanting to impact people’s lives. After completing the Classical Progressions Program through Karen Frischmann, Inc. I was able to bridge those two goals to create a fulfilling, profitable model that was not only successful but gave clients the means to continue and expand on their own practice.
FOR THE WORKING TEACHER
What makes us different
The needs and responsibilities of working Pilates teachers differ from those of an apprentice. I will always cherish my time spent with Romana and Shari at Drago’s Gym. Being in that studio, observing Romana’s work, listening to her instructions, and observing how she positioned her hands was a magical experience. I am grateful for my time there and for Jay Grimes, who insisted I study with Romana.
However, it was also an expensive and disruptive experience. Traveling for weeks at a time, several times a year, and the additional costs of canceling clients, travel, etc. it all added up.
I wanted a better model that would cater to the needs of working teachers with students, a studio, a family, and other responsibilities. Our program is designed to provide the best learning experience possible, without sacrificing quality, while remaining flexible and approachable. It is based on university continuing education models and it’s one of the things that makes us unique.
If you were to piece together the components of Classical Progressions individually, the cost would be $21,492.
That’s right – our program delivers over $21,000 worth of value condensed into a comprehensive 15-month journey toward mastery.
We’ve done everything we can to make this program affordable and accessible. It’s $533 over 15 months, which is less than four private lessons a month with me!
1.
A Modular Program
While we hope that students begin and end the program with their class, we understand that sometimes that’s impossible.
Students will be able to leave the program and restart with another class, provided there is space available.
4.
Live Sessions & Replays
Classical Progressions is taught exclusively online. The benefit is that everyone has access to their own apparatus. Everyone gets to try the exercises rather than watching someone demonstrate and then having to recreate it when you get home. All live sessions are recorded
You’ll have access to all the course materials for 24 months.
2.
Flexible Payments
To make this program accessible, each module is billed separately. You can choose to pay for the module in full or in three installments.
Full details can be found in the program catalog.
5.
No Travel Required
This program does not require travel to Los Angeles.
That being said, I am always happy to have folks come to work with me in person. Private, in-person sessions are available as my schedule permits.
I also I host one or two intensive weekends in L.A. per year, where we focus on hands-on work.
3.
Short Format – Weekday Classes
No need to give up your weekend. Classes meet during the week each term. Class days and times will remain the same for all four modules, so you’ll only have to adjust your schedule once. The weekly workouts ensure that you get your work in every week and that you receive feedback on your progress. The two-hour seminars offer enough time to go deep into the week’s work, but not become overwhelming, and you’ll be able to use what you learned with your very next student.
6.
Continuing Support and Community
The students and graduates make this program strong. You’ll have continuing support and connection with an amazing international community of teachers.
WHAT OUR GRADUATES HAVE TO SAY
My confidence improved greatly throughout the training as Karen put the ‘missing puzzle pieces’ that I was searching for into an excellent comprehensive training program. My teaching showcases this confidence, and the progression of the program allowed me to build a personal library to rely on when different bodies are in front of me. I continually use the resources of memorization through study; personal muscle memory gained through practice, her print and media training resources, and more. I would not be where I am today in my personal Pilates practice, understanding and teaching without her amazing program and support.
This program is outstanding in clearly demonstrating how Joseph Pilates’ Classical Method is a “system”, and the breadth of its reach. You will investigate how all exercises are thoughtfully interconnected, and when executed properly, will result in overall improved health. You will graduate with a clear understanding of how to confidently and safely use the system to make unmistakable, measurable progress in your personal practice and your students.
I chose to enroll in the Classical Progression Program to deepen my understanding of the work and to further my skills as a teacher. As I teach today (and further my own practice), I am thankful to have completed the program as what I used to doubt, I now trust. My understanding of the work has deepened which has provided clarity to my instruction and confidence in my teaching.
I chose to enroll in the Classical Progression Program to deepen my understanding of the work and to further my skills as a teacher. As I teach today (and further my own practice), I am thankful to have completed the program as what I used to doubt, I now trust. My understanding of the work has deepened which has provided clarity to my instruction and confidence in my teaching.
Participating in the classical progressions program has been one of the richest & most rewarding learning experiences of my life. Karen is incredibly generous with her knowledge, expertise & her teaching experience she shares. So much of the content that is delivered has already been formatted into folders with images and notes, that we will continue to add to throughout the rest of our career as our understanding of the system evolves over time. No information or guidance is withheld, a true sense of being completely supported and encouraged to find the best version of ourselves as teachers & practitioners of this incredible system. I cannot recommend the program highly enough to anyone who is passionate about understanding the classical Pilates system more deeply.
Having a community of like-minded people to explore the work with and be guided by Karen is a unique experience that will elevate your teaching
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Getting Started
I'm classically trained; do I still need to assess?
Yes. Everyone needs to assess. It’s an opportunity for us to meet, talk about your goals for the program, and discuss where you are in your work. It allows us to create a more personalized plan, and you get all your questions answered.
I can't make the meeting times, will you do this again next year?
Classical Progressions is offered two times a year. To accommodate multiple time zones, the spring round meets in the afternoon, and the winter round meets in the morning. The entire program calendar and meeting times for the Spring 2024 and Winter 2025 groups can be found in the program catalog.
General Questions
Do I have to pay for the entire program up front?
No. We want to make sure that this program is affordable. Each module is charged independently, and if you need to break up the module payments, you can split them into three monthly installments. The program catalog has a full payment schedule, payment plan details, and refund policies.
Can I audit the program? Just watch the recording and not attend the meetings?
No. Due to the limited class space and the nature of the program, all participants are expected to attend the live sessions and participate in the group discussion.
What can I expect from this program?
You will gain a deep understanding of the classical Pilates method, delivered logically and systematically. Every exercise in the system is broken down and discussed, and related exercises, both pre-requisites and progressions, will be offered. By the end of the program, you’ll be able to see the relationships for yourself and be able to create dynamic, personalized programming for your students. You will also be progressing your own workouts as we progress through the systems. A full breakdown of what we cover in each module can be found in the program catalog.
Why do we have a term break between Intermediate 2 and Advanced?
The advanced work is a culmination of all the lessons and tools you’ve learned from Foundations through Intermediates 2. The work challenges, destabilizes, and builds on all of the previous skills. We discovered over the last 7 rounds of Classical Progressions that students need time to process all the information they’ve gained over the past 9 months and the opportunity to practice on their own to be up for the challenge of the advanced work. Optional private sessions and group workouts will be offered during the break to help students progress in their own work.
I'm classically trained, so can I just take the Advanced course?
No. This program is about more than just the exercises. We rebuild your understanding of the system from the ground up. There is a unique vocabulary and view of the system that you will not have from any other classical program. All students, regardless of their training or level of experience, will be required to take all modules.
Do I need to be in Los Angeles for the live sessions?
Nope! This program is taught entirely online. If you would like to visit Los Angeles for additional in-person lessons or classes, we can arrange that.
Will we be meeting every week?
Yes. Each week during the term (see the program catalog for exact dates and meeting times), we’ll meet for a one-hour workout and a two-hour seminar.
Do I need equipment to participate?
Yes. This is a participation-based program. It’s important that every student have this work in their own body. Students are expected to have access to all the major pieces of apparatus, at a minimum: mat, reformer, Cadillac (or tower), and Wunda chair and barrels. We will also cover the Arm chair, Ped-O-Pul, high chair, and small apparatus. For the best results, we’d love for you to have all the apparatus available.
At the start of the program, you’ll receive a detailed syllabus listing what will be covered in each workout and seminar and the equipment required.
Do I need classical equipment to participate?
The apparatus and exercises in any system go hand in hand. For the best results, we do recommend practicing on classical apparatus. We will discuss the differences in apparatus and how to bring your equipment closer to the classical standards.
How is this program different from a comprehensive program?
Depth. A comprehensive primary program focuses on introducing apprentices to teaching. It develops a strong foundation so that new teachers can begin their careers safely and effectively. Every teacher in Classical Progressions has completed a comprehensive primary certification, so we have the opportunity to build on what you know. We refine technique, work on upper-level teaching skills, and examine the purpose, philosophy, and system of classical Pilates. This is a true master’s program.
What if I need to leave the program?
We understand that mid-career teachers often have other obligations that can get in the way of our education. This program’s structure was built for you. Each module is charged individually. If you need to leave for any reason, you may reenter anytime, provided space is available. Details for leaving the program between modules and mid-course can be found in the program catalog.
How do I qualify for CECs?
Each module is accredited for 33 NCPT CEC credits. In order to qualify students must attend 80% of the workouts and seminars and complete all of the homework.
Are there manuals?
You will be provided with an illustrated workbook for each module, with all the exercises and space for your own personal notes. You will be responsible for entering your exercise descriptions, relevant notes, related exercises, and progressions. This is a living, breathing document that you will be able to add to and adapt throughout your career.
About the Work
Is there homework?
Yes, each module has several outside reading assignments, anatomy lectures, and quizzes. In addition, you will be expected to maintain your own practice.
How much time do I need for this program?
The video content and homework varies from week to week, but plan on a minimum of 5 to 10 hours to get the most out of the program.
Will all the apparatus be covered?
Yes.
What are the requirements to graduate?
Attendance at 80% of the workouts and seminars in all modules, successful completion of all homework assignments, and completion of all 4 1:1 sessions with Karen.
After the Program
How long do we have access to the materials?
You will have access to all the materials, lectures and class recordings for a total of 24 months.
Will I be considered a Classical teacher after I graduate?
Yes, if you would like to call yourself that, a Pilates teacher with classical training, or a third-generation teacher.
Is there a certificate of completion for the whole program, or just the CEC certificates?
Yes. If you have completed the entire program and met all the requirements, you will receive a paper certificate of completion that you can hang on your wall.
Do you have any alumni program?
We’re working on that. Once you’re a part of my community, you’ll have a space for life. The teachers who have completed this program are among the most accomplished, kindest, and most supportive I’ve ever met.
Over the next year, we plan to offer alumni-only workouts, in-person intensives, and program discounts and more.