STOTT PILATES® Intensive Matwork Plus (IMP) Course – Level 1

“It has been so valuable for my practice as both a health professional (physio) and instructor learning the STOTT PILATES techniques.  The instructor trainer was extremely well prepared and I loved hearing all of the correct terminology being used for particular body parts.  It is very special knowing all STOTT PILATES instructors have been trained to this high standard of practice!” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, Methven, April 2019)

“Sharon you are amazing, thank you!” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, Methven, April 2019)

“Sharon was approachable and friendly from the first time I questioned the course.  I was worried as an athlete and reformer attendee that I would not make the pre-recs.  Sharon rung me and explained it all.  I got an extra anatomy book which is amazing.  the course has been amazing too.  It is such a comfortable environment, welcoming and an incredible place to learn and ask questions.   I needed to do individual/private classes to make up missed time and Sharon went and organised this easily, no hassle at all.  I have absolutely loved this course.  Sharon is bubbly, approachable, friendly and a seriously knowledgable gal!  I wish I coudl stay and keep on soaking up all of this info.  Cannot wait for my next course, already planning!  Thank you!  Amazing feeling finding your passion!” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, Methven, April 2019)

“Loving this!” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, Methven, April 2019)

“Sharon is an exceptional teacher with a precise and dynamic teaching style and an impeccable trove of knowledge, evident in her comprehensive instructions and thoughtful answers.  I have thoroughly enjoyed my introduction to STOTT PILATES and will definitely be looking to train with Sharon again.  Thanks a lot!” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, Methven, April 2019)

“The location was fantastic, it was relaxing, quiet and tranquil.  Sharon was a great instructor, she made sure everyone understood and kept up along the way” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, Methven, April 2019)

“Sharon is wonderful, very specific, kind and patient” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, Methven, April 2019)

 “Amazing course – love how it builds.  Very empowering and equipping” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, Methven, April 2019)

“Learning from Sharon was truly an insightful & encouraging experience.  The days were organised wonderfully, with close attention to each individual’s needs. I faced some issues getting to Methven (I am an international attendee) and Sharon was incredibly supportive!  Her knowledge of the human body is mind-blowing and I never felt overwhelmed with the amount of information we learnt.  Delivery of material was great and a great balance of professionalism and personal touch.  She is a very intuitive teacher who has given me great confidence and a whole lot of knowledge!  Thank you Sharon, you rock!” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, Methven, April 2019)

“Sharon is beyond amazing.  I have already studied Mat Pilates but learnt so much more from Sharon than any other teacher so wanted to learn it again under her teaching of the STOTT PILATES method.  Cannot wait for Cadillac in June” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, Auckland, February 2019)

“Sharon is enthusiastic, passionate and knowledgable about what she teaches.  Thoroughly enjoyed my course and look forward to moving forward” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, Auckland, February 2019)

“This 8 day course has been an amazing experience and I can’t wait to attend upcoming courses too!  Thank you Sharon, you are so amazing” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, Auckland, February 2019)

“Great structure & format of the course.  Particularly found the posture analysis format helpful to retain it for later use”  (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, Auckland, February 2019)

“I came to the course from teaching Pilates as a part-timer but will leave this course with a lot more confidence in a way I want to train my future and existing clients.  Big thumbs up 😉 ” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, Auckland, February 2019)

“Sharon is exceptionally professional & knowledgable.  She expertly shares the science behind the method.  Private training gave me the time and space to gain Sharon’s knowledge in detail and feel the movement confidently.  Sharon’s studio is a sanctuary.  Clean, inspiring and in a great environment” (attended a private STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, NZ’s Merrithew Licensed Training Centre-Hawkes Bay, August 2018)

“Once again this was such a fantastic and very thorough course.  I would highly recommend auditing the course to any instructors, it’s a great refresher and it’s a great opportunity to absorb even more info.  I found the cueing tips especially helpful!  Loved every moment!  Sharon is the most wonderful teacher! (audited STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, June 2018)

“Sharon was the perfect balance of information, professional with inspirational support and sensitivity.  I feel confident & motivated to start teaching what I have learned.  Thank you Sharon!” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, June 2018)

“Extremely supportive training and a well rounded course.  I always was made to feel comfortable asking for clarification or help.  I really appreciate all the energy and passion Sharon brought to the class!  Thank you and I can’t wait to come back for more training!” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, June 2018)

“Absolutely beautiful, amazing and supportive environment.  I’m very pleased” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, June 2018)

“Sharon is an excellent presenter.  She has a very approachable manner and welcomed any questions we had.  Her demo’s and instructions were very clear and easy to follow, the pace was great and kept us on task.  Both mind and body learnt a lot!” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, June 2018)

“Really enjoyed course.  Great mix of theory and practice.  Sharon was positive and helped to build confidence” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, June 2018)

“If you are a current Pilates trainer and want to upskill and update, then Sharon is the Instructor to book in with.  Her technical knowledge and application is second to none and you will leave the courses feeling empowered in your teaching and your own body” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, June 2018)

“Sharon created a safe learning environment – she was very clear on all she covered.  She shared all of her knowledge and was always supportive and encouraging” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, June 2018)

“Loved it, learn so much.  Everyday started and finished promptly.  Content and delivery incredible.  Thanks so much.  Presentation style keeps you actively engaged” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, February 2018)

“Wonderful course.  Informative, focused.  Great atmosphere.  Sharon is amazing.  Information, information! Wonderful demonstrations.  Excellent. (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, February 2018)

“All explanations were clear and relevant.  Sharon made the course both tough (positive) and fun.  I love your work, it makes me passionate about Pilates” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, February 2018)

“Absolutely amazing course with a fun environment and chance to ask questions.  I’m already wanting to come back for more!” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, February 2018)

“Sharon is knowledgable, professional and very approachable.  I learnt so much more than I expected.  I also appreciate that Sharon opens herself up for further communication.  I look forward to training further with Sharon” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, February 2018)

“Sharon was awesome, always very engaging and entertaining.  Loved the course, I thoroughly enjoyed everything!” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, February 2018)

“Came to course to audit free of charge since I have attended this course before.  It is great to have the opportunity to observe after teaching Matwork currently to learn more.  Also great to take notes, cueing tips, etc” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, February 2018)

“What a wonderful opportunity to audit and observe the Intensive Matwork Plus Course, after having done the training last year.  A great way to cement your knowledge and build your confidence.  Thank you Sharon”(audited free of charge STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, February 2018)

“Sharon’s knowledge of Pilates, body mechanics, joints, muscles and how the body works is impeccable.  You will not only learn STOTT PILATES indeppth, but you will come away confident you can take your knowledge and experience to teach client’s perfectly” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, August 2017)

“Awesome course, mind & body was thoroughly challenged in a good way.  Love the body science & knowledge gained throughout this course” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, August 2017)

“Sharon is very knowledgeable & clearly passionate about teaching as well as the STOTT PILATES curriculum.  I’ve really enjoyed the learning process & will definitely consider further training in the future” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, August 2017)

“It was a great course.  I learned more than expected” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, August 2017)

“Sharon is a positive and bubbly instructor who shares her passion for Pilates in a supportive and encouraging environment.  Exercises are thoroughly explained with excellent support materials.  I loved the details.  We are lucky to have the talented Sharon teaching STOTT PILATES in New Zealand.  I’m going to do further STOTT PILATES courses with Sharon and I can’t wait.  Would highly recommend this course.  Thank you Sharon for being such an awesome instructor!” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, August 2017)

“What a fantastic course and Instructor Trainer!  The course was very thorough and I feel very well prepared for teaching.  Sharon was very professional yet made the whole experience fun!  Everything was explained so clearly & logically.  This course & Instructor Trainer far exceeded my expectations.  I’m so excited to start teaching!” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, May 2017)

“Having trained previously with classical Pilates, STOTT PILATES has been an incredible journey deepening my knowledge of the Pilates system & biomechanical movement patterns.  Highly recommend this course.  Sharon is an incredibly supportive instructor, incredibly knowledgeable, passing on her knowledge & experience with huge passion & enthusiasm.  Thank you!” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, May 2017)

“Sharon has been great, very knowledgeable & down to earth, really emphasising an intelligent approach & not compromising structure for an outcome.  Very encouraging & supportive”. (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, May 2017)

“Great training experience!  Sharon is an amazing knowledgeable techer.  Can’t wait for the Reformer training!  Would highly recommend Sharon to anyone wanting to take the Pilates path.  Also lover her encouragement to keep in touch & join the STOTT PILATES community.  Thanks Sharon!” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, May 2017)

“Loved it!  Feel confident that I was given all the information for a future as a more than competent Instructor”.  (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, May 2017)

“My learning and deeper understanding of my body and what I can get it to do is invaluable to me.  Love it, love it, love it!  Thank you Sharon” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, May 2017)

“Great motivation to continue my journey.  I achieved my first ever full press up with correct positioning!” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus Course, May 2017)

“I really enjoyed the STOTT PILATES course, I learnt so much about my body and how relevant and beneficial it is for my dancing.  Sharon was amazing, very helpful and knowledgeable about her craft” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, November 2016)

“Sharon is a really fun, knowledgable, easy going yet a professional teacher!  Loving this course even though every muscle is sore! (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, November 2016)

“Through chosing STOTT PILATES it has made me so much more aware of my body.  So thank you to have chosen this course over any other Pilates courses offered.  It’s so in depth and requires a lot of understanding.  Sharon was great” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, November 2016)

“Really enjoyed working with Sharon.  Her experience and knowledge is inspiring.  Great to have all the support material.  Thank you ;-)” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, November 2016)

“This is a fantastic Pilates course!  Very informative and in depth and Sharon’s method of teaching is easy to understand while still remaining fun” (attended STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Course, November 2016)

“I have thoroughly enjoyed this course.  Sharon and the ladies on the course have made it easy to learn and Sharon has a great way of teaching without losing me, along the way.  Looking forward to the next installment.  Thanks Sharon for having faith in my abilities” (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, March 2016)

“Course was a little bit intense but fun and Sharon was a lovely instructor.  Very knowledgable, got intense skills and very supported.  Thank you Sharon” (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, March 2016)

“Sharon has created a very comfortable and nurturing learning environment, where I have always felt keen and willing to learn and participate.  My expectations have been far exceeded and my learnings have left me feeling excited to start sharing my knowledge and teaching straight away.” (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, March 2016)

“I feel Sharon really knows her subject and teaches well.  Great personality and keeps class fun.  I look forward to taking another course!”(attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, March 2016)

“Sharon’s training is just perfect for anyone with a passion for being the best instructor you can be.  Sharon is clearly passionate about the Stott Pilates method and after training with her I am now too!  For anyone wishing to be trained to be the best and provide the best service, this is the course.”(attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, March 2016)

“Sharon is fantastic at training, she has a wealth of knowledge and is able to teach it very clearly.  I wouldn’t hesitate to do another course with her and am already thinking about what I can do next! :)”(attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, March 2016)

“Sharon is amazing, so much energy and passion for Pilates.  She has so much knowledge to share and always gives you that extra workout by making you laugh.  I don’t want the course to end!!” (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, March 2016)

“Sharon is in my opinion an exceptional trainer, mentor and Pilates ambassador.  She has given me so much inspiration and her passion for STOTT PILATES is also infectious.  She has made my introduction into the Instructor world an awesome one and has given me tools and knowledge to develop myself.  Thank you ;-)” (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course – September 2015)

“Sharon was a fantastic instructor with an amazing wealth of knowledge and made everything accessible and was very encouraging.  I’m so impressed with the course materials and content – super professional.  I feel confident going on to teach classes.  The course is definitely worth every cent.” (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course – September 2015)

“Great in-depth course.  The teaching has given me confidence to teach others as emphasis was placed on principles, muscle groups and techniques throughout every exercise.” (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course – September 2015)

“Awesome!  Truly profound results!” (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course – September 2015)

“It’s a great course with a very knowledgeable & patient teacher.  Great at teaching to all backgrounds and making everyone feel positive.” (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course – September 2015)

“Awesome, I love it, I love it, I love it.  Thank you so much Sharon, you have made my transition from the old life to my new one AMAZING and so very positive.” (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course – September 2015)

“Sharon has been a great instructor, very good at making the information clear and functional.  I would highly recommend her.” (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course – September 2015)

“Great trainer who is so enthusiastic and encouraging!” (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course – September 2015)

“Sharon was brilliant, her instruction & demonstration of exercises were precise and well thought out, together with putting us at ease when we couldn’t achieve the exercise.  I for one will be back for more” (from New Plymouth, attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course – February 2015)

“Sharon’s energy, passion and enthusiasm for what she does is awesome to behold.  I cannot believe the improvement in my form over the last 8 days.  Love how the course is constantly referring back to anatomy & biomechanics.  A perfect compliment to my physiotherapy practice.  Highly recommended!” (from Auckland, attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course – February 2015)

“I travelled from Australia to attend this course and it was definitely worth the trip.  The studio is wonderful and such a welcoming environment to spend each day.  Sharon’s knowledge and teaching is so inspiring.  I have learned so much and can’t wait to start teaching it at home” (from Gold Coast Australia, attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course – February 2015)

“This was such an amazing experience and journey.  Amazing teacher, great ladies and inspiring all round.  Thanks for the opportunity” (from Hamilton, attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course – February 2015)

“Very professional and indepth.  Loved every minute of it.  Can’t wait to return and do another course” (from New Plymouth – attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course – February 2015)

“Fabulous setting, very calming.  Sharon makes the training an awesome experience” – (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, July 2014)

“Awesome!  Sharon was a really generous, energetic and positive Instructor Trainer.  It made every day a pleasure to be there.  Great course and I can’t wait to learn more and put my training into practice” (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, July 2014)

“Coming from a personal training background, I found this to be incredibly empowering, challenging and enlightening.  I learnt to tune into my body in a way personal training has never given me.  Sharon was an amazing instructor and coming from a similar background, understood my mindset and could help me evolve, through slowing down and making those mind-body connections” (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, July 2014)

“Sharon is a vibrant and professional teacher.  I would definitely return to further my knowledge and experience to Core Pilates New Zealand.  Thanks Sharon!  (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, July 2014)

“Excellent course, learnt a lot about body movement and it was great to further build on and establish my skills in a different area (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, July 2014)

“I have only just scratched the surface in the realm of Pilates but after completing the STOTT PILATES Intensive Matwork Plus course with Sharon in her dream studio I can’t wait to learn more and become fully qualified!  I have a huge passion for sport and since being asked to step inside a studio many years ago, pilates has complimented my sport extensively. Making the decision to become STOTT PILATES trained was nerve racking as I knew I had a solid background in sport, having played professionally for many years; however, I was anxious about my limited knowledge in anatomy, biomechanics, teaching skills and least we mention my lack of flexibility. I feared such key skills would hinder my ability to learn the exercises to the extent required and then in time teach them. All I can say is myth myth myth…. The Intensive Matwork course was extremely thorough and presented in a way that promotes learning with ease and enjoyment. Sharon was a phenomenal instructor from demonstration of the exercises to the write up of notes whilst ensuring I grasp concepts such as postural analysis well enough to further develop on my own.  All I can say is if you have a passion for pilates these courses will only amplify your enjoyment of pilates and your knowledge base” – Laura Langman, New Zealand Netballer (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, June 2014)

“I have found this training to be very well structured, stimulating, challenging and enjoyable.  Sharon is personable and inspirational, very caring, responsive and supportive.  She creates a cheerful, friendly and relaxed but focused atmosphere” – Jan Daley, Dunedin (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, June 2014)

“Sharon’s passion and enthusiasm for her subject is evident in her teaching style.  Fantastic course with a knowledgeable instructor who can break the information down into manageable sized pieces” – Pilates Instructor, Dunedin (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, June 2014)

“The course has been fun and an amazing experience, finding out what, why & how!  And getting to really feel when you’ve got it right and being able to laugh and try again when you haven’t got it right.  Sharon is a great instructor and nobody felt like they wouldn’t succeed in reaching their goals due to her encouragement with all the modifications.  A lot to learn & practice but so worth it!” – Chris Ure, Dunedin (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, June 2014)

“Sharon went out of her way to make sure we were understanding and following.  I appreciated the personal experiences and tips she shared.  It made us feel connected to the ‘real life’ side of teaching as well as the educational side of things” – Rachel Heseltine, Dunedin (attended Intensive Matwork Plus Course, June 2014)

“I have gained a thorough understanding of STOTT PILATES principles.  Sharon’s passion for Pilates and teaching are inspiring and motivating.  She has a wonderful and impressive knowledge of anatomy and kinesiology and is well able to transfer this to the students.  I have been impressed with how apparently minor corrections can have such a profound result (both immediate & lasting) on my own body’s performance.  Was great fun to do and very inspiring!  Thanks.” Marjolijn Walsh, Physiotherapist, Morrinsville, New Zealand, (attended Intensive Matwork Plus, Auckland, March 2014)

“I just want to say thank you Sharon! The course was incredible. Everything was more than a score 5 out of 5. Sharon you are amazing! Looking forward to getting more knowledge from you and STOTT PILATES. I felt absolutely happy every day of the course, loved the environment and Sharon’s skills. Thanks again!” Florencia Ladida Menehem, Argentina/Waiheke Island, New Zealand, (attended Intensive Mat Plus Course, Auckland in March 2013)

“Even as a teaching novice, this was a very warm and accessible course, which demands high levels of focus and commitment but at the same time is appropriate for all levels. Even more importantly, there were many laughs exchanged over the days and friendships formed. The course couldn’t come more highly recommended. Not only has it seeded a pilates ‘bug’ in me, but I finished the course with bounds of confidence which on day one I thought was impossible!” Emma Lakeman, England, (attended Intensive Mat Plus Course, Auckland in March 2013)

“I found the STOTT PILATES IMP course to be inspiring on a professional and a personal level. As a physiotherapist, it was fantastic to become enthusiastic again about exercise-based prescription and postural analysis techniques that I know will compliment my treatments and get results for my patients. As a new mum with a seven-month-old baby and low back pain, it was awesome to see results on myself just by learning, performing and teaching the STOTT PILATES exercises. I feel like I have my pre-pregnancy figure back and feel my back pain fading already. As for Sharon, the NZ instructor, gotta love her! Don’t think there could be a better course instructor.”  Jenny Watts, Physiotherapist, Raglan, New Zealand, (attended Intensive Mat Plus Course, Auckland in March 2013)

“Although I have been teaching Pilates for over 2 years, I still found the STOTT PILATES Intensive Mat and Reformer courses to be packed with a wealth of postural insights, “cueing-gems”, and opportunities for understanding the difference between the benefits of almost getting an exercise right and getting it spot-on. Sharon is an inspiring teacher, and her passion combined with her wealth of experience and knowledge contributed immensely to the value of the courses. My teaching tool-kit has greatly increased and improved as a result of attending these STOTT PILATES courses.”  Alison Allen, Wellington, New Zealand, (attended Intensive Matwork Plus, Auckland, March 2014)