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Yoga / Pilates

Course Description:
This once-weekly course provides students with an introduction to the foundational principles, techniques, and practices of yoga and Pilates. Through a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application, students will develop a solid understanding of the mind-body connection, improve their physical fitness, and cultivate mindfulness and relaxation techniques.

Course Objectives:

  1. Understand the origins, history, and philosophy of yoga and Pilates.
  2. Learn the basic principles of alignment, breathing techniques, and body awareness in yoga and Pilates.
  3. Develop proficiency in a variety of fundamental yoga asanas (poses) and Pilates exercises.
  4. Explore the benefits of yoga and Pilates for physical health, including strength, flexibility, balance, and posture.
  5. Cultivate mindfulness, stress management, and relaxation through meditation and breathwork.
  6. Gain insight into the holistic approach of yoga and Pilates toward overall well-being, including mental and emotional health.
  7. Learn modifications and adaptations to accommodate different body types, abilities, and limitations.
  8. Practice self-care and injury prevention strategies within the context of yoga and Pilates.

Course Details

Yoga / Pilates

Ninth Grade Tenth Grade Eleventh Grade Twelfth Grade

Units

Introduction to Yoga:

  • History and philosophy of yoga
  • Different styles of yoga (e.g., Hatha, Vinyasa, Yin)
  • Basic yoga terminology and concepts
  • Importance of breath and its role in yoga practice
  • Relaxation techniques and yogic sleep

Introduction to Pilates:

  • Origins and principles of Pilates
  • Core concepts: centering, concentration, control, precision, breath, and flow
  • Mat Pilates vs. equipment-based Pilates (e.g., reformer, Cadillac)
  • Pilates exercises targeting core strength, flexibility, and muscular balance
  • Pilates props and equipment: their uses and benefits

Integration and Practice:

  • Combining yoga and Pilates techniques for a holistic approach to fitness and well-being
  • Developing personalized yoga and Pilates routines
  • Understanding the importance of consistency and progression in practice
  • Incorporating mindfulness and relaxation techniques into daily life

Applications and Adaptations:

  • Modifications and variations for different fitness levels and physical conditions
  • Injury prevention and rehabilitation through yoga and Pilates
  • Yoga and Pilates for specific populations (e.g., athletes, seniors, prenatal)
  • Exploring career paths and further study in yoga and Pilates instruction

Assessment: Assessment in this course will be based on participation in class activities, practical demonstrations of yoga and Pilates techniques, written reflections, and possibly a final project or exam assessing students’ understanding of course concepts and their ability to apply them.

Twenty three-lessons make up this course (subject to minor changes):

  1. Introduction to Yoga and Pilates: History, Philosophy, and Principles
  2. Understanding Breath: The Foundation of Yoga and Pilates
  3. Basic Yoga Poses for Alignment and Body Awareness
  4. Core Concepts in Pilates: Centering and Control
  5. Sun Salutations: Flowing Sequences in Yoga
  6. Pilates Mat Exercises for Core Strength and Stability
  7. Exploring Different Styles of Yoga: Hatha, Vinyasa, and Yin
  8. Precision and Focus: Refining Your Pilates Practice
  9. Standing Yoga Poses for Strength and Balance
  10. Introduction to Pranayama: Breathing Techniques for Relaxation
  11. Intermediate Mat Pilates: Adding Challenge and Complexity
  12. Yoga Nidra: Deep Relaxation and Meditation
  13. Balancing Asanas: Enhancing Stability and Coordination
  14. Reformer Pilates: Introduction to Equipment-Based Practice
  15. Backbends and Heart Openers: Cultivating Flexibility and
  16. Emotional Release
  17. Advanced Pilates Exercises for Full-Body Conditioning
  18. Inversions and Arm Balances: Building Confidence and Focus
  19. Yin Yoga: Deep Stretching and Release
  20. Flowing Transitions: Seamlessly Linking Poses in Yoga
  21. Pilates Props and Modifications: Adapting to Individual Needs
  22. Peak Poses and Sequencing: Building Towards Mastery
  23. Yoga for Stress Relief: Techniques for Calming the Mind and Body
  24. Culminating Practice: Integrating Yoga and Pilates for Overall Well-Being

No texts required.

Mrs. Justine Thorn

Justine Thorn graduated from Bingham High School in 2003. She was a member of the Minerette Drill Team and was in charge of costumes during her senior year. She began teaching dance classes at Premier Dance Studio until she left to attend BYU Idaho studying Interior Design. She continued teaching while attending BYU-I at Rocky Mountain Stars in Rexburg, ID. After a couple semesters, she moved back to South Jordan where she met her husband and began teaching at Local Motion Dance Studio and worked at Hamilton Park Interiors assisting in the construction design team. In 2011, she welcomed her first child and left Hamilton Park to raise her family. 14 months after the arrival of her first child, her second child was born and solidified her beloved role of mother. She continued to teach at Local Motion for the next 10 years while her children were in their early years of school. In 2021, she went back to Hamilton Park Interiors to be their Executive Assistant and Showroom manager until she recently joined the American Heritage School as a member of the Front Office Team for the 2022-2023 school year. She still assists at the design store with customer service when she can, and working with students in the evenings at the dance studio. Justine has been married since 2006 to the love of her life, Jesse Thorn, and has two children. She’s anxious to have a puppy join the family as soon as possible.