What Does “Polestar Trained” Really Mean? Let Me Explain…
The other day, I was proudly sharing with a group of clients how every member of our team is either Polestar Pilates trained or mentored by me. Proud, because I know this means we are the most highly qualified and experienced team in Leeds. That’s no small claim, it’s something I say with conviction, because it’s true.
But we had a good laugh when one lovely client tilted her head and said, “What does that even mean?” And before I could answer, another piped up: “Yeah, I’ve been wondering that too!” I absolutely loved the honesty, and it reminded me how important it is to break down what makes our approach so different.
Why Training Matters (More Than You Might Think)
I’ve spoken before here and on our blog about how much our profession has grown and shifted. And with that growth comes the need for discernment, knowing where you train, who trains you, and what standards are upheld. That question, “what does it mean to be Polestar trained?” is a brilliant one. Because if you’re in our studio, you already feel the quality of our teaching. But what does that quality actually come from?
Six Months of Training. Six Months of Mentorship. A Lifetime of Impact.
Each of our teachers invests hundreds of hours developing their own personal practice and understanding of Pilates before they even begin teacher training. The Polestar course itself runs for six months, followed by another six months of rigorous mentoring and practical learning before anyone can even think about taking their exam.
During this time, they attend group classes and one-to-one sessions, and teach countless hours under supervision – usually from me!
But it’s not just physical. There’s a huge journey of personal growth and transformation. This deep self-discovery is what gives our teachers their empathy, their attentiveness, and their powerful ability to help you reach your goals.
Not Just Surface-Level Training
What really sets this training apart is how in-depth it goes. Our teachers don’t just learn a bit about anatomy or dabble in modifications for different clients, they dive deep. They are prepared to work with any client, at any stage of life, and with any condition. That confidence comes from solid education and continuous development, not guesswork.
Why You Can’t Assume All Training Is Equal
Here’s the part that makes me both sad and passionate: our profession isn’t legislated. That means, technically, anyone can call themselves a teacher or trainer and open a studio. No qualifications, no oversight. There’s no regulatory body protecting you as the consumer or them as the practitioner. It’s why so many people have lacklustre or even harmful experiences.
When I Say “Mentored by Me”… Here’s What That Means
When I tell you that every team member is Polestar trained and/or personally mentored by me, I’m giving you my personal stamp of assurance. I am the most qualified and experienced teacher and educator in our region, and I’m regularly invited to present internationally by respected organisations like the Pilates Method Alliance, Balanced Body (the makers of Pilates equipment), and Polestar International.
I have high standards, and that’s because I hold them on your behalf. My team meets those standards every single day.
This Is What Makes Chapel Allerton Pilates Different
And I suppose that’s what makes up the heart of the Chapel Allerton Pilates difference. It’s the detail you might not see on the surface, but you feel it. In your body, in your results, in the care and confidence our teachers bring.
So, thank you. Thank you for trusting us, for being part of our community, and for being open and curious. You help keep this work meaningful, and I’m so glad you’re here.
What’s On This Month?
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By Claire Sparrow, Director of Chapel Allerton Pilates and Whole Body Pelvic Health Founder
