Founder of BASI Pilates & Pilates Visionary
— Rael Isacowitz
Rael Isacowitz is one of the most influential figures in the Pilates world, renowned for his dedication to preserving the true essence of Pilates while advancing its education globally. With over 45 years of teaching experience, Rael has trained thousands of instructors across five continents, emphasizing a holistic approach that integrates body, mind, and spirit.
He studied directly under some of the original Pilates masters, including Romana Kryzanowska, Kathy Grant, Ron Fletcher, Lolita San Miguel, and Eve Gentry. This first-hand lineage gives Rael a deep understanding of Joseph Pilates’ original method, which he combines with modern scientific principles to create a comprehensive and precise teaching system.
Rael’s teaching philosophy centers on helping students think critically about movement—not just performing exercises mechanically. This approach ensures that instructors trained under BASI deliver intelligent, effective, and safe Pilates sessions.
Beyond teaching, Rael is a pioneer in Pilates equipment design and methodology. He developed the innovative F2 Systems—comprising the F2 Chair, F2 Spine Corrector, and F2 Armchair—and created the BASI Block System, a unique framework for categorizing Pilates exercises that supports progressive learning and mastery.
Author of the bestselling Pilates Anatomy and co-creator of the educational platform Pilates Interactive, Rael continues to push the boundaries of Pilates education. His legacy was honored in 2022 when he became the first person inducted into the Pilates Method Alliance Legacy Circle without having studied directly with Joseph Pilates.
Rael Isacowitz’s unwavering professionalism and passion have inspired a global community of instructors, ensuring BASI Pilates remains a beacon of excellence and innovation in the Pilates world.
Meet BASI Pilates
BASI Pilates was founded in 1989 by renowned master teacher Rael Isacowitz.
What began as a vision has grown into one of the world’s leading Pilates education academies.
For over 36 years, BASI has trained and certified passionate instructors, helping to spread the true essence of Pilates across the globe. Today, our programs are offered in over 60 countries and 200+ host locations, with more than 75,000 certified instructors worldwide.
We are proud to be recognized by the PMA (Pilates Method Alliance) and deeply committed to delivering precise, science-based education—while staying true to the classical roots of Joseph Pilates’ original work.
Meet BASI Pilates
BASI Pilates was founded in 1989 by renowned master teacher Rael Isacowitz.
What began as a vision has grown into one of the world’s leading Pilates education academies.
For over 35 years, BASI has trained and certified passionate instructors, helping to spread the true essence of Pilates across the globe. Today, our programs are offered in over 55 countries and 200+ host locations, with more than 50,000 certified instructors worldwide.
We are proud to be recognized by the PMA (Pilates Method Alliance) and deeply committed to delivering precise, science-based education—while staying true to the classical roots of Joseph Pilates’ original work.
Why
Our Mission
To provide Pilates enthusiasts with a profound educational experience preparing them for a life-long career in Pilates.
How
Our Values
Passion - Celebrate life.
Compassion - Empower Humanity.
Excellence - Reach for greatness.
What
Our Strategy
Education - Comprehensive education.
Equipment - Finely crafted equipment.
Innovation - Vision to the future, while preserving the past.
Meet BASI Pilates
BASI Pilates was founded in 1989 by renowned master teacher Rael Isacowitz.
What began as a vision has grown into one of the world’s leading Pilates education academies.
For over 35 years, BASI has trained and certified passionate instructors, helping to spread the true essence of Pilates across the globe. Today, our programs are offered in over 55 countries and 200+ host locations, with more than 50,000 certified instructors worldwide.
We are proud to be recognized by the PMA (Pilates Method Alliance) and deeply committed to delivering precise, science-based education—while staying true to the classical roots of Joseph Pilates’ original work.
Rael Isacowitz is one of the most influential figures in the Pilates world, renowned for his dedication to preserving the true essence of Pilates while advancing its education globally. With over 45 years of teaching experience, Rael has trained thousands of instructors across five continents, emphasizing a holistic approach that integrates body, mind, and spirit.
He studied directly under some of the original Pilates masters, including Romana Kryzanowska, Kathy Grant, Ron Fletcher, Lolita San Miguel, and Eve Gentry. This first-hand lineage gives Rael a deep understanding of Joseph Pilates’ original method, which he combines with modern scientific principles to create a comprehensive and precise teaching system.
Rael’s teaching philosophy centers on helping students think critically about movement—not just performing exercises mechanically. This approach ensures that instructors trained under BASI deliver intelligent, effective, and safe Pilates sessions.
Beyond teaching, Rael is a pioneer in Pilates equipment design and methodology. He developed the innovative F2 Systems—comprising the F2 Chair, F2 Spine Corrector, and F2 Armchair—and created the BASI Block System, a unique framework for categorizing Pilates exercises that supports progressive learning and mastery.
Author of the bestselling Pilates Anatomy and co-creator of the educational platform Pilates Interactive, Rael continues to push the boundaries of Pilates education. His legacy was honored in 2022 when he became the first person inducted into the Pilates Method Alliance Legacy Circle without having studied directly with Joseph Pilates.
Rael Isacowitz’s unwavering professionalism and passion have inspired a global community of instructors, ensuring BASI Pilates remains a beacon of excellence and innovation in the Pilates world.
Founder of BASI Pilates & Pilates Visionary — Rael Isacowitz
BASI Pilates Block System
The BASI Pilates Block System is
the foundation of the BASI teaching method.
Created by founder Rael Isacowitz, this unique system organizes hundreds of Pilates exercises into a logical, structured sequence.
t provides a clear framework for building balanced and effective sessions—addressing all planes of movement, muscle groups, and client needs.
The Block System allows teachers to tailor classes to every level while encouraging creativity and progression.
As instructors grow in experience, they unlock the full potential of this intelligent and adaptable system.
BASI
The Art and Science of Human Movement & Innovation
