When and Where to Complete Your Hours

When and Where to Complete Your Hours

Article Summary
This article clarifies the timeline for starting and completing supplementary hours, explains the 20% restriction during early training phases, and provides guidance on finding mentors and scheduling opportunities throughout your Polestar journey.

When You Can Start Supplementary Hours

Earliest Start Point
Supplementary hours accumulation may begin after completing your first Gateway course:
  1. Gateway Mat, OR
  2. Gateway Equipment
Recommended Timeline
Although you can start after Gateway, it's strongly recommended to complete the majority of hours after:
  1. PP Online course completion
  2. First qualification course module (Studio/Rehab Foundation) completion
  3. Why Wait? Exercises are taught in much more detail during qualification course modules, giving you a stronger foundation for meaningful practice and observation.

The 20% Rule: Important Restriction
Critical Limitation: No more than 20% of supplementary hours in ANY category can be completed between your first Gateway course and the first qualification module (Mat Intermediate, Reformer Intermediate, Studio Foundation)

Practical Application example :
If you need 40 observation hours total, only 8 hours can be completed in the early phase between Gateway and Comprehensive Foundation.

Why This Rule Exists:
  1. Ensures you have sufficient foundational knowledge before extensive practice
  2. Prevents development of incorrect movement patterns
  3. Guarantees quality learning progression
  4. Maintains Polestar's educational standards


Optimal Timing Strategy
Phase 1: Gateway to First Qualification Module (Limited Hours)

Recommended Activities:
  1. Work 1-on-1 with family and friends for basic practice
  2. Partner with fellow students for mutual support
  3. Focus on fundamental concepts and basic exercises
  4. Limit to 20% of each category maximum
Best Approach:
  1. Use this time for initial familiarization
  2. Build relationships with classmates for future collaboration
  3. Establish basic practice routines
  4. Avoid rushing into complex material

Phase 2: Post-First Qualification Module (Primary Hours)

Full Engagement Period:
  1. Complete remaining 80% of all supplementary hours
  2. Engage in comprehensive mentoring activities
  3. Access full range of observation opportunities
  4. Develop advanced teaching skills
Where to Complete Your Hours
Host Site Programs

Advantages:
  1. Established mentoring programs with structured schedules
  2. Multiple mentor options available
  3. Group session coordination
  4. Administrative support and guidance
What to Expect:
  1. Fixed group schedules - Regular mentoring sessions you can join
  2. Flexible à la carte options - Book individual sessions as needed
  3. Mentor program details vary by location and host
  4. Independent Mentor Arrangements
Greater Flexibility:
  1. Work with any authorized Polestar Educator or Mentor
  2. Not limited to mentors associated with your host site
  3. Create customized schedules around your availability
  4. Develop direct professional relationships
How to Find Independent Mentors:
  1. Contact your host site for mentor referrals in your area
  2. Reach out to Polestar Pilates Asia for mentor connections
  3. Network with other students and recent graduates
  4. Connect with local Polestar-trained instructors
  5. Geographic Considerations
If You Live Far from Your Host Site:
  1. You may work with mentors anywhere, not just your host location
  2. Many mentors offer remote or travel options
  3. Consider intensive weekend workshops when traveling
  4. Coordinate with other distant students for group sessions

Scheduling Strategies
Regular Monthly Approach

Recommended Schedule:
  1. Book 1-2 mentor sessions per month
  2. Maintain consistent progress throughout training
  3. Allow time for independent practice between sessions
  4. Track progress regularly to stay on target
Benefits:
  1. Steady skill development
  2. Manageable financial commitment
  3. Regular feedback and course correction
  4. Reduced pre-exam pressure
  5. Intensive Approach
Concentrated Sessions:
  1. Complete hours in intensive blocks
  2. Weekend workshops or week-long intensives
  3. Multiple sessions scheduled close together
  4. Intensive exam preparation periods
Best For:
  1. Students with busy schedules
  2. Those who prefer concentrated learning
  3. Students traveling to work with specific mentors
  4. Pre-exam preparation periods

Making the Most of Your Timeline
Early Phase Tips (Gateway to Comprehensive Foundation)
  1. Build foundations through basic practice
  2. Connect with classmates for ongoing support
  3. Identify preferred mentors for later intensive work
  4. Establish practice routines and study habits
Primary Phase Tips (Post-Comprehensive Foundation)
  1. Engage fully with mentoring opportunities
  2. Diversify activities across all required categories
  3. Seek feedback regularly to ensure quality progress
  4. Balance independent work with guided sessions
Pre-Exam Phase Tips
  1. Complete all requirements with time to spare
  2. Focus on weak areas identified during training
  3. Practice exam-style demonstrations and teaching
  4. Build confidence through thorough preparation

Coordinating with Others
Fellow Students

Benefits of Collaboration:
  1. Share mentoring costs through group sessions
  2. Practice teaching with willing subjects
  3. Support each other through challenging concepts
  4. Create study groups for theoretical work
Coordination Tips:
  1. Exchange contact information early in training
  2. Communicate regularly about progress and needs
  3. Schedule group sessions well in advance
  4. Respect different learning paces and preferences
Mentor Relationships
Building Positive Relationships:
  1. Communicate clearly about your needs and goals
  2. Respect mentors' time and expertise
  3. Come prepared to maximize session value
  4. Maintain professional boundaries and expectations

Flexibility and Adaptation
Life Circumstances
Accommodating Your Schedule:
  1. Training can be extended to fit personal circumstances
  2. Mentors often offer various scheduling options
  3. Online resources can supplement in-person requirements
  4. Communication with your host site ensures continued support
Learning Pace
Individual Progression:
  1. Some students advance quickly through requirements
  2. Others need additional time and practice
  3. Both approaches are normal and acceptable
  4. Focus on quality learning rather than speed
Warning
However, please be aware that if you are taking the exam, there is an exam validity period from the date of your last module.

Related Resources
  1. Understanding Supplementary Hours (Mentorship) - Complete Overview
  2. Supplementary Hours Costs and Budgeting
  3. Exercise Check-offs: Process and Requirements


Need Help?
To learn about specific mentoring schedules and mentor availability in your area, contact your host site directly. For connections to mentors outside your host site network, reach out to Polestar Pilates Asia.



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