Alexander Technique

The Alexander Technique is based on the assumption that many physical complaints and movement restrictions are caused by unconscious postural habits and tension patterns. These patterns are identified and resolved through mindful self-awareness and conscious correction. Central to the method is the principle of “pausing” and consciously reorganising posture and movement.

The technique can alleviate back pain, tension and stress-related symptoms by promoting more efficient use of the body. It supports easier and freer movement, enhances body awareness and improves breathing, voice and concentration.

The Alexander Technique is suitable for individuals experiencing chronic tension, pain or stress, as well as those seeking to improve movement and self-expression. It is practised individually or in groups and is applied in medical-therapeutic settings and prevention.

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Criteria

Minimum requirements

You must provide evidence of at least 1200 hours of training in the subject areas listed under training content. In addition, you must provide evidence of at least 400 hours of practical teaching experience in the form of shadowing, co-leading or independent instruction.

Training content

The following subject areas must be covered:

  • Min. 200 hours: Basic anatomy and physiology (musculoskeletal system, breathing, neurophysiology of posture and movement, functional relationships)
  • Min. 200 hours: Theory and principles of the Alexander Technique (history and development, central concepts such as inhibition, “directions”, primary control, theoretical foundations)
  • Min. 400 hours: Practical application and self-awareness (learning the method, everyday movements, perception and coordination exercises, transfer to work and daily life)
  • Min. 200 hours: Instructional skills and didactics (manual and verbal instruction, structure and organisation of individual and group settings, methodical reflection and feedback)
  • Min. 200 hours: Fields of application and consolidation (use in prevention, rehabilitation, training, performing arts and education; ethical principles and professional self-image)

Recognition of Practical Experience

Up to 400 hours of practical teaching experience can be credited toward certification at a ratio of 2:1, meaning two hours of documented experience count as one hour of formal training.

To have practical experience recognised, you must submit appropriate supporting documents along with your certification application. Accepted forms of evidence include job references, payslips, AHV statements or other comparable official records. Self-declared experience without documentation cannot be accepted.

Re-certification

To maintain certification, instructors must complete continuing education. QualiCert verifies this as part of the re-certification process. The number of training days required depends on the number of certified areas:

Number of certified areasRequired training days
1 area2
2 areas3
3 areas3
4 and more areas4

Health insurance recognition

Certification of your qualification as a course instructor is part of the overall course provider certification process.
However, this alone does not entitle participants in your courses to receive reimbursement from health insurance companies. For this, a certification as a course provider is also required.

Questions & Answers

A course is deemed to be recognised if both the qualification of the course leader and the certification of the provider are available.

In concrete terms, this means

  • The course leader has a valid certification as a course instructor.
  • The course provider is recognised as a provider by the relevant certification body.

Only if both requirements are met can participants claim contributions towards the course costs from their health insurance provider.

The initial certification fee primarily covers the work involved in checking your documents and qualifications. These services also apply if certification cannot be granted.

If you are unsure whether you fulfil the requirements, please contact QualiCert in advance. We will be happy to provide you with guidance so that you are optimally prepared for the certification process.

The further training does not necessarily have to be subject-specific - topics relating to prevention such as exercise, nutrition, relaxation or prevention concepts are also valid.

However, BLS CPR training or further training courses and courses aimed at end consumers are not recognised. It is important that the further training is offered by an institution whose core business is professional training and further training.

The detailed requirements for further training courses are set out in the further training regulations. You will automatically receive these with every initial or re-certification.

No. You do not have to send in your training certificates on an ongoing basis. QualiCert will check them collectively as part of your re-certification.

Persons who have reached the age of 60 before 1 January of the period of validity for which re-certification is requested are exempt from the continuing education requirement.

However, QualiCert recommends that you continue to attend further training courses voluntarily even after reaching this age limit. In this way, you can stay up to date professionally and ensure the quality of your services in the long term.

Yes, QualiCert reserves the right to reject an initial or re-certification even if the formal requirements and criteria are met. This applies in particular if there are indications that applicants do not offer a guarantee of irreproachable professional practice.

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