Dance and integrative movement practices labs
Dance, Pilates and integrative movement research
Our dance and integrative movement labs support applied research, education and professional training in dance, Pilates, somatic movement and movement education. Faculty and students explore how movement practices can support healthy dance training, functional strength, injury prevention, posture, body awareness and well-being.
Through hands-on coursework, research and practicums, students develop skills in movement assessment, teaching and professional practice while connecting with community members through Pilates and movement services.
Integrated Pilates Movement Laboratory
The Integrated Pilates Movement Laboratory is one of two adjacent spaces operated by the Dance Program for applied research, education and training in Pilates and somatic movement. The laboratory supports healthy dance practices, professional preparation and private or group movement experiences for students and community members.
Research focus
- Pilates practices that support healthy dance and movement training
- Pilates for posture, functional strength and injury prevention
- Somatic movement education and experiential anatomy
- Developmental movement education
Current and recent work
- Pilates teacher training in partnership with BASI Pilates
- Dance conditioning coursework with pre- and post-training evaluations
- Client services with certified Pilates instructors
Student research opportunities
Dance students can build experience through dance conditioning coursework and practicums connected to Pilates certification. These experiences may include movement instruction, applied assessment and supervised work toward professional credentials.
Community services and participation
Community members and U of I students may participate in private and group Pilates sessions with certified instructors. Teacher training opportunities include comprehensive, mat and mat-and-reformer certification courses offered in partnership with BASI Pilates. Limited private sessions may also be available with instructors in training.
Partnerships and impact
The laboratories partner with BASI Pilates to prepare future instructors and expand access to high-quality movement education in the community.
Contact information
Location: Memorial Gym, Room B2
Contact: pilates@uidaho.edu
Pilates Mat and Somatic Movement Education Laboratory
The Pilates Mat and Somatic Movement Education Laboratory complements the Integrated Pilates Movement Laboratory and supports applied learning in mat Pilates, somatic movement and experiential anatomy. The space helps students connect mind-body practices with health, movement development, teaching and career preparation.
Research focus
- Somatic movement education and experiential anatomy
- Mat Pilates and movement education
- Healthy movement training for dancers and other participants
- Professional development and instructor preparation
Current and recent work
- Mat and mat-and-reformer teacher training
- Dance conditioning and movement education
- Community and client services
Student research opportunities
Students can participate through Dance Program coursework, dance conditioning and practicums that support Pilates certification completion. Applied experiences help students develop teaching, observation, movement analysis and client-service skills.
Community services and participation
Private and group Pilates or movement education sessions may be available for community members and U of I students. The space also supports BASI Pilates teacher training and continuing professional development.
Partnerships and impact
In partnership with BASI Pilates, the lab helps train future Pilates instructors and provides a valuable movement service to the region.
Contact information
Location: Memorial Gym, Room B3
Contact: pilates@uidaho.edu
Learn, teach and move
Students interested in dance, Pilates, somatic movement or movement education can explore coursework, practicums and professional certification pathways. Community members should contact the Pilates laboratories for current session availability, training schedules and service information.