Supplementary Hours are structured self-study and mentoring activities that students complete alongside core training modules to develop professional competency as Pilates practitioners. This article explains what they are, when to do them, and how to get started.

These hours are mandatory for certification exam eligibility and focus on practical skill development through supervised and independent learning.

Why Supplementary Hours Matter

INFO: Polestar's training methodology emphasizes hands-on experience and self-mastery as essential components of becoming a competent Pilates professional. These activities bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring graduates can confidently and safely instruct clients.

Terminology

NOTES: Students and staff use different terms for the same thing. All of the following refer to supplementary hours:

1. Supplementary hours
2. Mentoring hours
3. Mentorship hours
4. Apprenticeship hours
5. Logbook hours
6. Practice hours

They are all the same thing. If you see any of these terms in your logbook, course materials, or communications from your host, they are referring to your supplementary hours requirement.

Required Supplementary Activities

To qualify for certification examination, students must complete mentoring activities in four core areas:

1. Observation

Watch experienced instructors conduct sessions to understand professional teaching methods, client interaction, and class management techniques. This can be done in person at your host studio or another studio with a Polestar-trained teacher, or by watching authorized Polestar videos. Read more here. 

2. Practice (Self-Mastery)

Dedicate time to your own Pilates practice — on the mat, on the Reformer, or on other equipment depending on your course. This deepens your movement understanding before you teach others. Attending classes at your host studio (e.g. group Reformer classes at Iso Fit) counts toward this category. Read more here. 

3. Apprentice Teaching

Gain supervised teaching experience under mentor guidance, allowing you to practice instruction skills in a supportive environment. Read more here. 

4. Assignments

Complete written work and practical assessments that demonstrate your understanding of Pilates principles and teaching methodology.

Supervised vs. Unsupervised Activities

Please note that supervised activities require mentor/educator presence and incur additional fees.

Supervised Activities (require mentor/educator presence and incur fees):

• Private or semi-private tuition sessions
• Scheduled group mentoring sessions
• Observation of rehabilitation, studio, mat, or reformer classes
• Group study sessions with mentor guidance
• Assistant teaching with supervision
• Examination preparation workshops

Unsupervised activities can be completed independently at no additional cost - maximize these opportunities for cost-effective learning.

Unsupervised Activities (completed independently at no additional cost):

• Self-mastery practice sessions
• Independent group study sessions
• Personal practice time

Programme Availability and Costs

The Mentorship Programme structure varies by country and location. For specific information about:

• Available activities in your region
• Scheduling and booking procedures
• Associated costs and payment options
• Local mentor qualifications

Contact your:

• Host Site coordinator
• Polestar Supervising Mentor in your country
• Regional education team

"Polestar's commitment is to provide these essential learning opportunities at minimal cost to students while maintaining high educational standards."

How do I track my Supplementary Hours?

Getting Started

1. Contact your local host to understand programme options in your area
   
2. Review the specific requirements for your course
3. Plan your schedule to complete all required hours before your intended examination date
4. Track your progress using the Polestar logbook
   

Notes:

Although you can start after the Gateway course, it is recommended that students complete all or most of these hours after the PP Online course and the first qualification course module (Mat Intermediate, Studio Foundation, Reformer Intermediate,) has been completed as the exercises are taught in a more detailed manner in the qualification course modules.

1. No more than 20% of any supplementary hours in each category (observation, self-mastery, apprentice teaching) can be accomplished in the period between the Gateway Courses (Gatway Mat, Gateway Equipment, Gateway Reformer)  and the first qualification module (Mat Intermediate, Studio Foundation, Reformer Intermediate, ). 
2. Polestar operates on an “Honour System” whereby students may sign themselves off after properly completing each hour’s activity.
3. All sessions involving the presence of a Polestar educator or mentor should be coordinated with educator / mentor involved as well as the studio.
4. Students should check with their hosts as to the cost of each activity included in the “Mentorship Programme”.
5. In general (except for the required check-offs) students may proceed with or without paying for the assistance of a Polestar teacher. Such assistance does entail additional cost but at the same time may shorten the time needed and lower the overall cost of the self-mastery and apprentice teaching check-offs.

Need Help?

If you have questions about supplementary hour requirements, available activities, or scheduling mentorship sessions, reach out to your local Polestar team or designated supervising mentor for personalized guidance.

This programme is designed to ensure every Polestar graduate possesses the practical skills and confidence needed to excel as a professional Pilates instructor.