Limited time offer: Sample AIFTT III Class Recordings!

Right now you can have free access to recorded materials from Week 1 of the Third Amsterdam International Feldenkrais Teacher Training (AIFTT III).

Almost all of the AIFTT class sessions—ATM lessons, talks, in-class exercises, and discussions—are recorded. Through a detailed multimedia index trainees can have an overview of the training and have access to each recording along with supplementary written materials.

Trainees can easily download recordings in MP3 format via any high-speed internet connection to listen to on their computer or MP3 player. Since this service is included in the tutition—unlike most training programs—trainees save hundreds of extra Euros per year by not having to purchase the recordings as supplemental CDs.

Trainees in the Fourth Amsterdam International Feldenkrais Teacher Training (AIFTT IV) will have access to these exclusive online resources to support their learning. Please note: This service is included in the AIFTT IV program tuition—there is no additional cost.

AIFTT III Segment One, Week 1 met daily during the week of 17 - 21 November 2008. AIFTT Educational Director, Larry Goldfarb, was the faculty trainer during this time. The audio recordings and text files contain talks, hands-on practice, ATM's, demos, and more! These downloads will give you a very good idea about what to expect during the first week of the training.

To register for this limited time offer, you must first create a free mindinmotion-online.com account. Click here to get started. The following link won't work if you don't have an account!

Listen now to Segment One, Week 1 of the AIFTT III.

Once you have registered for this offer, please log in to your Mind in Motion-online (MIMO) Registered User account and visit the Multimedia Index in the side-menu. Your downloadable files will be visible there for 60 days.

Spanning from August 2013 to November 2016, the Fourth Amsterdam International Feldenkrais Teacher Training (AIFTT IV) integrates quarterly modules of live learning with personalized guidance, individual and group homework, and innovative state-of-the-art online learning.

The AIFTT IV meets fourteen times in just over a three year period:

Classes meet from 10:00 to 17:30 Monday through Thursday, and from 9:00 to 13:30 on Friday. With approximately twenty-six hours of classroom instruction per week—this makes for more than 800 hours of live instruction over the 32-week course of the program.

Please note: in addition to attending class, each trainee is expected to commit 1,600 hours to learning outside of class. This includes reading, doing homework assignments alone and in study group, reviewing the recorded materials, practicing teaching classes, and doing hands-on work, etc.

Make-up Trainees & Visiting Pracitioners

We accept make-up trainees from other accredited Feldenkrais programs. Trainees and practitioners may attend by advance reservation only. Please contact the Mind in Motion office to make your reservation.

AIFTT Accreditation

All Feldenkrais^® Teacher Training programs directed by Larry Goldfarb Ph.D., CFT, and all programs sponsored by Mind in Motion, are fully accredited and either meet or exceed all international Feldenkrais training guidelines.

All trainings sponsored by Mind in Motion have recieved accreditation from their local accreditation boards. We are proud to uphold these standards. As a matter of policy all Mind in Motion training programs meet or exceed all accreditation criteria.

Why does accreditation matter?

Accreditation of a Feldenkrais training guarantees that the graduate of a training in one part of the world will be recognized by, and eligible for, membership in any national professional Feldenkrais association.

The international Feldenkrais community has established a policy that governs the accreditation method of professional Feldenkrais teacher training programs. These guidelines establish consistent policies about class size, trainee-to-teacher ratios, and so on, for programs the world over.

Since they define minimal requirements, the accreditation guidelines leave room for creativity, experimentation, and development of the ways trainings are conducted while at the same time aiming to protect the quality of the training and enhance the experience of the trainees.

Amsterdam International Feldenkrais Teacher Training

Beginning Monday, 19 August 2013, the Fourth Amsterdam International Feldenkrais Teacher Training (AIFFT IV) will offer an accelerated (three-and-a-quarter year) program of quarterly segments.

The AIFTT IV creates an incremental, continuous learning process that combines live learning with individual homework assignments, online learning resources, and work in study groups. Our innovative curriculum balances experiential and cognitive approaches, learning on your own and in groups, nurturing understanding and cultivating intuition, having support and being challenged.

This proven approach is designed for those who want to develop the movement observation skills, kinesthetic and tactile sensitivity, theoretical understanding, and pedagogical proficiency necessary to become a successful Feldenkrais teacher.

Learn how you can develop the observation skills, hands-on sensitivity, theoretical understanding and teaching proficiency necessary for a successful Feldenkrais career.

For information about enrolling in the Fourth Amsterdam International Feldenkrais Teacher training, please contact the Mind in Motion office.

In The Netherlands you are also able to contact Caro van Iersel at [31] (36) 530 40 10

AIFTT Program Curriculum

"By my body's action, teach my mind."
William Shakespeare

"What I'm after isn't flexible bodies, but flexible brains. What I'm after is to restore each person to their human dignity."
Moshe Feldenkrais

Year One

The first year of the program presents the basic tenets of the method. The faculty introduces the method through Moshe Feldenkrais’ life and work. Building on these historical foundations, the AIFTT develops the conceptual and observational tools needed to understand the method.

Trainees are immersed in Awareness Through Movement (ATM) lessons. We begin with the classic ATMs that Dr. Feldenkrais taught over and over in his public presentations. We then move to the movements of babies and toddlers, exploring the roots of how coordination and dexterity arise, and giving trainees a first-person appreciation of the underlying processes. ATM lessons also bring fundamental ideas—from anatomy, kinesiology, biomechanics, neurophysiology, and learning theory—to life and demonstrate their relevance to practicing the method.

Working in interactive small group exercises, trainees develop their ability to listen with their ears, eyes and hands. Expanding their appreciation for how others move and sense themselves develops a growing appreciation for how we experience our physicality and express it. Observing oneself and the others in the program creates a foundation for observing movement and understanding the mover. This process of observation is, in turn, the basis for becoming an observant “movement detective.”

From the start of the AIFTT, trainees begin to learn the tactics and techniques of Functional Integration (FI) lessons. The faculty introduce basic skills hands-on work with an emphasis on developing the art of making contact. Exercises emphasize developing tactile sensitivity, working with awareness through touch, learning skeletal anatomy experientially, and understanding the principles of movement.

Year Two

Learning to give Functional Integration (FI) lessons is not separated from learning to teach ATM. Trainees explore the relationship between ATM and FI, learning to teach the same "lesson" both ways: verbally and tactilely. In order to foster real understanding and move beyond simply following “recipes,” the lesson themes are developed from different perspectives. The emphasis is not on learning to move others, but on developing awareness of, and skill in, moving oneself to move the student. Much of the hands-on work is introduced through guided work in pairs and small groups, providing each trainee the support and supervision needed to learn to move safely and efficiently while working with others.

In the second year, trainees begin to develop an understanding of the grammar and syntax of ATM lessons. Developing a basic ATM repertoire, the faculty examines a number of classic ATMs in depth. Elaborating and building on the lessons from the first year, we indentify on what constitutes a lesson and examine the structures of different lessons. Preparing to teach ATM to the public at the end of the second year, trainees work on giving instructions, planning and promoting a class, and relating lessons to the activities of daily life. Trainees are supervised teaching lessons in class by faculty members.

Year Three

By simultaneously cultivating hands-on and verbal teaching skills from the beginning the program, we de-emphasize what has historically been a difficult transition between learning to teach ATM and learning to give FIs.

The program continues to clarify and build up movement observation and hands-on skills in a step-by-step fashion. So that they do not simply mimic what is demonstrated, trainees participate in active problem-solving situations, such as translating from ATMs to FIs or creating alternative approaches to do things they already know how to do. The trainees learn the logic and strategy of lessons from the inside-out, fostering a growing intuitive appreciation of educational strategy.

Knowing that it takes time to become a compelling ATM teacher, the program continues to foster the skillful teaching of ATM in the third year (and the fourth year, too). As trainees begin to teach ATM outside the program, the faculty delves deeper into the structure of lessons and the composition of series. More complex and challenging ATM lessons are taught. Trainees work on improving their presentation skills and developing an understanding of curriculum design. To provide an intermediary step between practicing teaching with friends and offering regular classes (and to provide a means for promoting their new profession), trainees participate in an externship program in which they offer a free ATM class or workshop to the public and receive (written) feedback.

Trainees supervise each other giving FI lessons to other trainees in the third year. To create a safe environment for exploration and learning, the educational director works closely with each trainee, identifying gaps in skills and understanding, and developing specific, personalized solutions.

Year Four

In the final year, in both group lessons and hands-on work the faculty introduces more unusual and challenging positions and situations. Trainees continue to refine and broaden their skills in all aspects of the work. As the trainees develop their understanding of what constitutes a lesson and of how the learning process works, the faculty pays special attention to each person’s ability to articulate and present the work. To provide as much individualized feedback and attention as possible in the final year, trainees work closely with their peers and faculty. Trainees are supervised by the faculty as they give lessons to people from the general public and also are given support in setting up their practices.

AIFTT Learning Strategies

The Amsterdam International Feldenkrais^® Teacher Training (AIFTT) uses many different teaching/learning approaches that benefits its trainees. This includes experiential movement lessons, individual hands-on lessons, small group exercises, class discussions, lectures, community projects, supervision, and between-segment assignments:

Awareness Through Movement^® classes

On most days, the faculty teaches two Awareness Through Movement^® (ATM) classes. The majority of these lessons will be drawn from the training programs that Dr. Feldenkrais conducted and from the public classes he taught. Occasionally we will play audio or video recordings of Feldenkrais’ original lessons.

The training begins with the trainees developing their abilities to be students and benefit personally from doing ATM. After an initial period of asking the trainees to simply experience lessons, the faculty instigates a process of reflecting on how and why ATM works. This is the beginning of an interactive, lively investigation into the structure and strategy that underlie the lessons that unfold during the course of the program. One core assumption of the AIFTT is that to teach ATM well, a future Feldenkrais teacher must understand the why and how of each lesson.

Because it is important for trainees to experience the full spectrum of ATM, the faculty teaches lessons that run the gamut from simple, introductory ones to intricate, interwoven series that unfold over days or weeks. Because it is not enough to just teach lessons, we prepare future teachers to talk about and promote the Method. Trainees also learn to teach short ATMs—as would be appropriate in an introductory talk—and “three-minute miracles” to illustrate briefly the efficacy of the Method.

As noted above, we do not make a strong distinction between ATM and Functional Integration^® (FI) lessons. When we practice the Method, we know that they are the same—simply two sides of the same coin. We use each to illuminate the other.

Functional Integration^® lessons

The AIFTT teaches Functional Integration (FI) by first developing basic abilities of touch—“making skeletal contact,” “seeing with the hands,” and “conversing about direction.” Trainees learn anatomy experientially while doing ATM, by palpating other students, and by the tactile tracking of others as they practice ATM. Trainees refine tactile, as well as kinesthetic, acuity in ATM lessons and in small group work. To understand the teacher’s perspective, trainees coach each other in practicing hands on skills and, eventually, giving FIs. Peer supervision provides the basis for giving lessons to the public and prepares trainees to give lessons while under faculty supervision.

All along, trainees will receive the feedback necessary for refining “the touch that teaches.” As part of the training, each trainee receives at least three individual Functional Integration (FI) lessons each year. Receiving these lessons—given by members of the faculty and by invited, experienced practitioners—is a central aspect in becoming a good teacher. Beyond that, trainees will be given opportunities to observe FI lessons given during class, FI lessons given to other trainees during non-class hours, and videos of Dr. Feldenkrais and others practitioners giving FI lessons.

Class Discussion

We hold regular discussions, both in small groups and with the entire class. These discussions will vary in style from question-and-answer periods, dialogues, open-ended talks, and conversations oriented around specific topics. These discussions ask the trainees to grapple with difficult questions—those without pre-determined answers—and actively investigate them. To encourage autonomy and develop competence in in-depth inquiry there are opportunities for trainee-led discussions.

Small Group Exercises

Small group activities allow the trainees to learn from, and with, each other. Small groups are used to develop the understanding and skills needed to teach FI and ATM. Group work is based on assigned activities, such as observing a particular movement, practicing a specific technique or analyzing a lesson. For example, in preparation for teaching an ATM lesson, between class segments trainees plan, at home, how to present the lesson and then practice teaching sections to each other.

At the AIFTT we are committed to creating a constructive atmosphere for small groups. Our intention is to create a place where each trainee can speak and be heard. In small groups, trainees discuss the training process by reflecting on class events, identifying difficulties, and developing solutions. By drawing on the different skills and background that each trainee brings, the group becomes a place for collaborative interaction and cooperative learning. We expand beyond the idea of being in a group and learning individually to create a process of learning with a group.

Lecture

Faculty and guest lecturers will give presentations about the background of the Method, related areas of current knowledge, and developing and running a practice. Trainees learn about Moshe Feldenkrais to gain insight into how the historic, philosophical, and scientific bases of his experience and education led to the development of the Method. To understand how the Feldenkrais approach differs from prevailing ideas about movement and instruction, trainees are introduced to relevant topics in the movement arts and sciences, contemporary education and philosophy.

Community Project

During the third year, or early fourth year, trainees participate in a community-based ATM teaching project. This could be a presentation, a class, or optimally, a series of classes for some group or institution in your home or professional community. In this way, while still developing skills, trainees are given a legitimate reason for offering their services for free. This project gives the opportunity to apply what the trainee has learned for the benefit of a specific group, serves as a stepping stone to asking to be paid, and offers an important first step in becoming known as a Feldenkrais teacher.

Trainees work on the plans, curriculum and presentation both in study groups and with the faculty, thereby giving us another means for keeping alive the topic of learning how to better teach ATM beyond the second year of the program.

Support and Supervision

So that we can track your progress through the program, the Educational Director and faculty get to know each trainee. Observing each trainee learn, interact, and practice gives us the information and overview needed to assess your progress and nurture your development. This means that supervision, in the sense of watching and guiding, is an ongoing aspect of the program.

Each trainee can invite one practitioner they know, and work with, to be their Big Sister or Big Brother. In exchange for promising to work with them regularly, answer their questions and support their learning, this practitioner will be given access to selected recorded materials from the training so as to be able to follow the progress of the program.

To facilitate learning, Larry Goldfarb, the AIFTT Educational Director, stays in regular contact with the individual trainees both during classes and between segments (via e-mail, phone and video-calling). Larry discusses each trainee’s learning processes individually so that he or she can identify subject areas and/or skills that need work and map a personalized strategy for further study, including individual assignments for learning between segments.

Between Segment Assignments

The AIFTT training is designed to facilitate continuous, incremental learning. That means that we are committed to making sure that the intervals between training segments are well utilized.

To that end, we encourage trainees to take ATM classes or workshops offered by your local practitioners during the interim periods. In this way, trainees can learn about many styles of teaching and begin to interact with future colleagues. For the same reason, we also suggest that you receive at least a few series of FI lessons between segments.

To keep in touch with other trainees, and with the learning process, we ask each trainee to participate in regular study group meetings between class segments. Study groups are a place to do ATM, practice teaching and touching, discuss questions, prepare lessons, and keep learning outside of class. Online support via the Mind in Motion website, which is for the exclusive use of participants in this training, provides another opportunity for keeping learning alive between segments.

To create a deep understanding of the Method and to strengthen the ability to express that understanding, we offer both individual and group homework at the end of each training module. These assignments include asking trainees to read articles and books, write about their experiences, practice teaching ATM and hands-on work, do certain movement observation techniques, etc. For example, during the second year, we ask trainees to write an outline for a talk to the public; these outlines are then discussed and improved upon in study group meetings.

Trainees have access to an exclusive section of the Mind in Motion website where they can download MP3 recordings of class lessons (for which there is no supplemental charge) and so on. Unlike Feldenkrais training programs that charge their trainees anywhere from €150 - €300 per year, for CDs of audio recordings, these materials are included in the training tuition.

Important please note:

Each trainee should consider the additional expenses above and beyond the AIFTT course tuition. Please realize that becoming a Feldenkrais teacher means purchasing several hundred Euro worth of books and other educational materials. Trainees might also want to budget for classes and individual lessons outside of the training. Future practitioners also need to purchase a Feldenkrais table along with rollers, pads and a stool, which can cost anywhere to €500 to €1,200.

AIFTT III Program Faculty

The faculty of the third Amsterdam International Feldenkrais^® Teacher Training (AIFTT III) consists of some of the most innovative and dedicated accredited trainers and assistant trainers from around the world.

The core teaching staff of the AIFTT III is:

Educational Director, Larry Goldfarb (CA, USA)

Angelika Feldmann (Switzerland)

Paul Newton (France)

Katrin Smithback (NM, USA)

Arlyn Zones (CA, USA)

Caro van Iersel (The Netherlands)

Each faculty member brings the program’s curriculum to life by presenting Awareness Through Movement^® (ATM) classes, teaching hands-on skills, doing demonstrations, giving Functional Integration^® (FI) lessons, clarifying concepts, leading discussions, facilitating small groups exercise and working closely with individual trainees.

Other experienced Feldenkrais teachers from Europe and elsewhere will serve on the educational team as tutor-teachers—highly qualified practitioners who provide support for the training and give individual FI lessons to the trainees.

AIFTT Educational Director

As Educational Director of the AIFTT, Lawrence Goldfarb, CFT, Ph.D., is responsible for the pedagogical integrity of the training program. Larry develops the curriculum, manages the faculty, and maintains an overview of each trainee’s learning. He bring over twenty-five years experience practicing and teaching the Method in a variety of settings—including schools, universities, physical therapy clinics, and hospitals—to the training. He has worked with people from all walks of life and taught the application of the Method to actors, athletes, dancers, musicians, office workers, physical and occupational therapists, and teachers

Larry graduated from the Amherst Training Program (1983), the last teacher training that Dr. Feldenkrais taught. He received his trainer accreditation in 1994. He has taught in dozens of teacher training programs in Australia, Europe and North America. He directed the first two Amsterdam trainings (1998-2002 and 2005-2008) as well as trainings in Adelaide (South Australia), New York City (New York), Santa Cruz (California), and Strasbroug (France). Not only has he has taught numerous post-graduate programs for Feldenkrais^® practitioners the world over, but Larry also established the first Mentor training program in the Feldenkrais Method.

A movement scientist, multi-media author, and pioneering practitioner, Larry is highly regarded for his ability to articulate the inner workings of the Method. He worked for many years in rehabilitation settings and with people on the job, including bank tellers, bus drivers, computer users, professional dancers, gardeners, orchestra musicians, stock clerks and visual artists. Even with his busy teaching schedule, Larry maintains an active private practice in Santa Cruz, California. His teaching is highlighted by clarity, warmth, individual attention and the creation of the lively conditions for learning.

The Training Site

Built on reclaimed marshland, Amsterdam has become one of the most beautiful and well-known cities in Europe.A historic center for learning, trade and transportation, it has the characteristics both of a vibrant cosmopolitan metropolis and an intimate, international village. Known for its canals and charming architecture, Amsterdam is a thriving modern town with a rich cultural heritage.

Photo by Yuri Volving

The AIFTT is held at de Ruimte, a conference and education center located just a few minutes walk from the Amstel River in Amsterdam. 

We welcome visitors to our training in Amsterdam. Please contact the Mind in Motion office to inquire about visiting.

Trainee Evaluation & the Graduation Process

At the AIFTT our emphasis is on individualized training—one in which the faculty, and the Educational Director, make ongoing contact with each trainee. This means that supervision both directly, in relationship to developing skills, and indirectly, in terms of ongoing interactions, is inherent in the training process. Therefore, each trainee’s progress and learning is closely followed, supported and guided throughout the duration of the AIFTT program.

A personalized approach and an emphasis on small group learning allows us to monitor trainee progress through the program in a collaborative and supportive fashion. This means that we can identify areas where someone lacks knowledge or ability, develop a plan of action and follow up as the trainee implements the plan.

Continued participation in the AIFTT is contingent upon the manner in which the trainee conducts him or herself during the training. Upon enrolling in the program the trainee agrees to comply with all rules and directives of the administration, its officers, and representatives, including the program faculty. Should a trainee exhibit any unacceptable and unprofessional behavior that disrupts the learning process for him/herself, or for others, or should the trainee demonstrate an inability or unwillingness to learn the required materials, we will address the matter immediately. Should any problem arise, we will attempt to resolve it directly with the trainee in question. Only after two or more such attempts fail will dismissal be considered. In the unfortunate event that such action be deemed necessary, we believe it is most fair to the individual (and the rest of the trainees) to act early in the program, when possible.

Trainees are eligible to be authorized to teach group Awareness Through Movement^® (ATM) lessons, on a provisional basis, only after successful completion of the first two years of the program. If the trainee drops out or is terminated from the program after two years, but before graduation, s/he loses the right to teach Awareness Through Movement lessons, unless s/he has requested, and received, a leave absence from the administrator. Such a leave of absence is contingent upon the trainee’s continuing with the training in the AIFTT or another accredited program. Trainees can be authorized to teach individual Functional Integration^® (FI) lessons only after successful graduation from the program.

Graduation from the AIFTT requires in-class demonstration of the ability to teach Awareness Through Movement classes and give Functional Integration lessons as well as full participation in the training, including completion of a community-based project.

Graduation also depends upon full attendance throughout all the segments. Any trainee missing up to 5 (five) days in any one training year, or up to 10 (ten) days over the course of the entire program, with any of those days being consecutive, will be required to make up lost time and content in a timely fashion before being eligible for graduation. Tuition will not be reimbursed nor credit granted for any missed days or parts thereof.

Should a trainee miss more than 5 (five) days in any one training year, or more than 10 (ten) days over the course of the entire program, s/he is required to make a formal written makeup plan with the Educational Director—this makeup plan usually includes being required to make up class time at another accredited training program at additional cost. Furthermore, the director reserves the exclusive right to ask any trainee to receive further training before being considered for graduation. Another condition for graduation is that all program tuition must be paid in full.

Upon successful completion of the program, the trainee will be authorized and qualified to practice as a Feldenkrais^® teacher. At that time each trainee will receive a Certificate of Graduation that makes him or her eligible for membership in all Feldenkrais Professional Associations or Guilds recognized by the International Feldenkrais Federation and to apply for the status of "Certified Feldenkrais Practitioner" from one of those organizations.

Please note: The laws of a given country or state may vary with regard to the use or application of the movement lessons and procedures taught in the AIFTT program. The trainee is responsible for making his or her own inquiry regarding all local laws, licenses, and regulations that may affect his or her ability to practice the Method, both in terms of teaching group classes and individual hands-on lessons. Any additional requirements that must be met in order to practice in a specific country or state are entirely the trainee’s responsibility. The administrator, its officers, and representatives make no representation or warranties concerning the use or application of the movement lessons and procedures taught in this program other than that the program has met all requirements for accreditation by the European Feldenkrais Training Accreditation Board. For information about the practice of the Feldenkrais Method^® of Movement Education in any specific location please contact the local professional association.

AIFTT IV Tuition

The tuition costs for the AIFTT IV program are as follows:

Application Fee: €85,00 non-refundable Application Fee, to accompany your completed AIFTT IV application.

Deposit: €500,00 Tuition Down-Payment, must accompany your signed contract. This tuition down-payment shall be applied toward the tuition payment for the final segment of the program.

Training Tuition: The tuition for the first two training years of the AIFTT IV is €3.800,00 per year, and €4.200,00 per year for the third and fourth training years. Tuition payments are due on the following schedule:

Tuition payments are accepted in Euros by inter-European wire payments to our Dutch bank account, or in US Dollars (equivalent to the amount due in Euros at the current rate of exchange) by Visa or EuroCard (MasterCard) via PayPal.

Should the tuition payments be submitted after the due date, the trainee will be assessed a late charge of 1.5% for each month, or any part thereof, that the payment is late. The trainee is responsible for promptly notifying the Mind in Motion office administrator in the event that they are unable to fulfill financial obligations and for making alternative payment arrangements prior to payment due date. Repeated late payments are due cause for expulsion from the program.

Should you withdraw from the program at any point, you will be refunded any tuition paid for any full days of the program which have not yet occurred, minus a €500,00 Cancellation Fee. In the event that you choose not to attend the program after signing the trainee agreement form, but before the first day of the program, you will forfeit the Tuition Down Payment of €500,00.

Should the administrator cancel the program, you will receive a full refund for all tuition paid for any full sessions of the program that, from the date of the cancellation, have not yet occurred.

One of the conditions for graduating from the program is that all tuition is paid in full.

AIFTT IV Tuition Payment Instructions

Two options for paying your Amsterdam International Feldenkrais Teacher Training (AIFTT) tuition—intra-European transfer and credit card via PayPal—are explained below:

1.) Intra-European direct bank transfer:

The simplest choice for those who have a bank account in Europe is to pay by direct bank transfer to our Dutch bank account. Please make your payment to:

BIC (Bank Identifier Code): INGBNL2A IBAN: NL91INGB0008167625

Gironummer (Account number): 8167625

Bank address: ING Bank

Bijlmerdreef 109

NL-1009 CD Amsterdam

The Netherlands

Account owner: Mind in Motion Inc.

P.O. Box 2778

Santa Cruz, CA

USA 95063-2778

For a payment from a Dutch bank, you only need our account number (8167625) and the name and town of the account holder (Mind in Motion; Santa Cruz, CA, USA).

If you are making a payment from outside the Netherlands, please be sure to mark your payment form to indicate that you are to be charged all fees associated with the transfer. You are responsible for paying the full tuition, so we bill you for any difference between the amount owed and the amount we receive.

It is important to make sure that your payment states that the transfer is for the AIFTT IV and that you specify the segment for which you are paying.

2.) Credit card payment via PayPal:

To pay your AIFTT tuition using either a credit card or your PayPal account, please first let our office know that this is what you would like to do by sending us an email. Once we have received your email letting us know you prefer to pay with your credit card we will email you a Request For Money from PayPal in the amount of your tuition. The email will contain simple instructions about how to complete the secure transaction online.

The PayPal Money Request will allow you to pay your tuition by using either your credit card or your PayPal account. You should expect to receive this emailed request from PayPal within three days of emailing us. If you do not find it in your Inbox, please remember to check your Spam folder.

Please feel free to contact the Mind In Motion office with any questions

AIFTT Supplemental Online Learning

Trainees in the Amsterdam International Feldenkrais Teacher Training (AIFTT) have access to exclusive online resources to support their learning.

This service is included in the AIFTT program tuition—there is no additional cost.

AIFTT trainees can access online audio recordings of all the training sessions along with supplementary written materials. In the near future they will be able to do homework assignments via the Mind in Motion website as well as communicate with each other—and the faculty—about the theory and practice of the Feldenkrais method, and to support one another.

Recorded Materials

All of the AIFTT class sessions—ATM lessons, talks, in-class exercises, and discussions—are recorded. Through a detailed index trainees can have an overview of the training and have access to each recording. Trainees can easily download  recordings in MP3 format via any high-speed internet connection to listen to on their computer or MP3 player. Since this service is included in the tutition—unlike most training programs—trainees save hundreds of extra Euros per year by not having to purchase the recordings as supplemental CDs.

Supplemental Materials

As the training progresses, selected assigned articles, photos, videos and other resources will be posted so that trainees can download them.

Distance Learning

Currently homework assignments are distributed electronically. We are beginnning to explore other ways to facilitate learning via the Mind in Motion website—this includes forums, online homework assignments, and more.

Applying to the AIFTT

The Amsterdam International Feldenkrais Teacher Training (AIFTT) is a professional training program designed to prepare participants to become Feldenkrais practitioners.

We desire a well-balanced trainee body—one that represents the full range of human experience. The only prerequisites are that the applicant has prior Feldenkrais experience (individual lessons, group classes, or preferably both) and that he or she participates in an introductory workshop.

Applicants are asked to submit a completed application which includes:

•    Work history
•    Educational background (academic & professional)
•    Prior experience with Feldenkrais lessons
•    Description of hobbies and interests
•    Health status
•    Two letters of recommendation—including one from a Feldenkrais practitioner

DOWNLOAD THE  AIFTT IV APPLICATION FORM HERE

You may also request the AIFTT IV Application Form by email from the Mind in Motion office.

After submitting an application to the AIFTT, you can expect to receive a response within two to three weeks. If accepted into the program, you will receive orientation information along with a Trainee Enrollment Agreement. The agreement is the contract that specifies your rights and responsibilities as a participant in the program. You will be asked to sign the contract and return it, within thirty days of notification, along with your Tuition Down Payment to reserve your place in the training.

To apply, please complete and submit the application form—along with your two letters of recommendation and the non-refundable €85,00 Application Fee.

We review applications on an as-received basis. Please note that your AIFTT IV application will not be reviewed until your Application Fee is received.

DOWNLOAD THE AIFTT IV APPLICATION FORM HERE

Late Start Program

Applications for Late Start acceptance into the program are welcome through the end of the first training year. Please contact the Mind in Motion office prior to beginning the application procedure. Besides completing an application and submitting letters of recommendation, Late Start applicants are required to interview with the Educational Director, Larry Goldfarb.

News Update: 01 April, 2013

AIFTT IV Application Forms are now available.

Applicants are asked to submit a completed application which includes:

• Work history
• Educational background (academic & professional)
• Prior experience with Feldenkrais lessons
• Description of hobbies and interests
• Health status
• Two letters of recommendation—including one from a Feldenkrais practitioner
• €85,00 non-refundable Application Fee

Please visit Application Procedure for additional AIFTT IV application information.

News Update: 07 February, 2013

It's official!

We're pleased to announce that the Fourth Amsterdam International Feldenkrais Teacher Training (AIFTT IV) has received accreditation by the Feldenkrais European Training Accreditation Board.

The AIFTT IV will begin on Monday, 19 August 2013. Potential applicants are asked to attend an introductory ATM workshop either with Educational Director, Larry Goldfarb, or Assistant Co-Director, Caro van Iersel.

Upcoming ATM workshops in Amsterdam will be held in March, May, and June 2013. Please visit the Calendar section of our website for more information regarding these workshops, including how to register.

News Update: 21 January, 2013

We are pleased to be offering a fourth teacher training in Amsterdam!

The fourth Amsterdam International Feldenkrais Teacher Training (AIFTT IV) will begin 19 August, 2013. See the AIFTT IV Training Schedule for a complete schedule of dates.

Spanning from August 2013 to November 2016, the AIFTT IV is an accelerated program that incorporates quarterly live learning with personalized guidance, individual homework, online learning, and work in study groups to create an incremental, continuous learning process. Our innovative curriculum combines experiential and cognitive approaches, learning on your own and in groups, nurturing understanding and cultivating intuition, having support and being challenged. This proven program is for people who want to develop the observation skills, kinesthetic and tactile sensitivity, theoretical understanding and pedagogical proficiency necessary to become a Feldenkrais teacher.

The AIFTT IV meets Monday through Friday. We are currently in the process of applying for accreditation. Potential applicants are required to attend an introductory workshop with the Educational Director, Larry Goldfarb. Workshops will be offered in Amsterdam on Saturday, 23 March 2013 and Sunday, 26 May 2013. Please see our Calendar section for more information about these upcoming workshops.

News Update: 18 May, 2012

Congratulations today to the AIFTT III 2012 graduating class! We wish them all much success as new Feldenkrais practitioners!

News Update: 14 February, 2012

AIFTT Educational Director, Larry Goldfarb, was recently injured in an accident and has since undergone reparative surgery. He is now recovering but, as a result, has had to take some time off from work. He will be returning to teaching in Amsterdam at the upcoming Segment 14.

News Update: 20 June 2011

Mind in Motion is currently planning our fourth Amsterdam training—the Amsterdam International Feldenkrais Teacher Training (AIFTT IV). This in-depth 3 1/2 year program will incorporate quarterly live learning with personalized guidance, individual homework, online learning, and work in study groups to create an incremental continuous learning process. At this time the AIFTT IV is scheduled to begin—at the earliest—in the summer of 2012.

News Update: 01 March 2009

The AIFTT III has a make-up program available to those trainee's already in the program as well as people still interested in applying to join the training late, through 4 September 2009. Please find our specific information about making up missed classes by clicking here. Local week long sessions are planned for June and August 2009.

News Update: 31 October 2008

There is still time to enroll in the AIFTT III and begin with the first segment on 17 November. We are accepting new trainees until the May segment, so if you are interested in finding out about how to start after the first segment and how to make up for the missed time, please contact the Mind in Motion office.

News Update: 27 October 2008

Today the Koninklijk Nederlands Gennotschap vor Fysiotherapie (the Dutch Royal Physical Therapy Association) accredited the AIFTT III as a post-graduate training for general physical therapists and those specializing in psychosomatic practice. The AIFTT received no less than 1,500 post-graduate points. Considering that a physical therapist needs to earn only 80 points every five years to maintain certification, this is a resounding recognition of the quality and depth of the training.

News Update: 17 October 2008

The training begins in just about one month. However, you still have time to apply for the remaining open spaces in the training. Please contact the Mind in Motion office immediately if you would like to apply for the program.

News Update: 02 October 2008

Read our second training bulletin: responses to a few frequently asked questions, "What kind of program is the AIFTT?" and "How many hours is the training in total?"

News Update: 04 September 2008

Read our first training bulletin: we focus on how our training prepares you for a successful teaching career.

News Update: 26 June 2008

The Third Amsterdam International Feldenkrais Teacher Training (AIFTT III) received EuroTAB accreditation on June 25th, 2008.

News Update: 19 June 2008

Enrollment is open for ON YOUR FEET offered in Amsterdam on 06 September 2008. For those interested in our training program. if you haven't already taken an introductory workshop, this is the last one before the training begins. Attending one of the introductory workshops is a mandatory part of the application procedure for the training program. Course details included in registration form.

News Update: 24 April 2008

For those interested in our training program if you haven't already taken an introductory workshop, the next one is coming right up. Enrollment is open for the MARTIAL ARTS OF DAILY LIFE offered in Amsterdam on 10 May 2008. Attending one of these workshops is a mandatory part of the application procedure for the training program. We may offer another presentation of ON YOUR FEET in Amsterdam in September, but the course details are currently not available.

News Update: 21 January 2008

The January AIFTT III Introductory workshops in Amsterdam and London BOTH SOLD OUT well in advance! Attendance was excellent and we recommend you to enroll as early as possible for the MARTIAL ARTS OF DAILY LIFE offered in Amsterdam on 10 May 2008, as attendance at one of these workshops is a mandatory part of the application procedure for the training program. We may offer another presentation of ON YOUR FEET in Amsterdam in September, but the course details are currently not available.

News Update: 13 November 2007

We are pleased to be offering a third teacher training in Amsterdam. Spanning from November 2008 to May 2012, this accelerated three-and-a-half year program incorporates quarterly live learning with personalized guidance, individual homework, online learning and work in study groups to create an incremental, continuous learning process. Our innovative curriculum combines experiential and cognitive approaches, learning on your own and in groups, nurturing understanding and cultivating intuition, having support and being challenged. This proven program is for people who want to develop the observation skills, kinesthetic and tactile sensitivity, theoretical understanding and pedagogical proficiency necessary to become a Feldenkrais teacher.

The training meets Monday through Friday. We are in the process of applying for accreditation. Applications for this program are now being accepted. Besides completing an application and submitting letters of recommendation, applicants are required to attend an introductory workshop with the Educational Director, Larry Goldfarb. These workshops will be offered in Amsterdam on Sunday, 13 January 2008 and Saturday, 10 May 2008 as well as in London on Sunday, 20 January 2008. For more information about the program please contact the Mind in Motion office.

What Others Say About The Training:

"Of all the Feldenkrais^® trainers I've worked with, I recommend Larry Goldfarb's teacher trainings because I know from my own experience that he can prepare people to understand, communicate and successfully practice the method." - Ellen Sevy, Santa Monica, CA

"When I first met Larry and the Feldenkrais Method^® (at a conference on cybernetics I was attending as an electrical engineer), the ATM—and the way he described the method—caught my imagination. It appealed to my sense that difficulties could be overcome by subtle, counter-intuitive methods. After a few years of taking ATM classes and getting FIs with Larry, I jumped at the chance to join the first training he organized. I was following my curiosity, not looking for a new profession. The effects of lessons on me and other students deeply impressed me. I wanted to learn to do that! Through the training process, the counter-intuitive methods became intuitive and spontaneous. ATM's and FI's built my appreciation for what is humanly possible—to recognize when each of us limit ourselves and develop a repertoire of ways to discover alternatives to those limits. Larry’s special gift is to provide immersion in Feldenkrais^® lessons accompanied by an incredibly well-structured reflection on how those experiences are generated. His trainings encourage students to find an articulate connection between experience and language that neither spoils the nonverbal learning, nor leaves us speechless about it.

By the end of the training, I knew that I had something to offer people who wanted to move better, to feel better, and to grow into their potential. I had practiced sufficiently and had been supervised enough to employ the methods I had once found so counter-intuitive. At first it wasn’t easy to develop a paying clientele, since I was a stranger living in a sparsely populated area of West Virginia. Four years ago I moved to Charlottesville, VA and began to build a practice. Now I work in a thriving health club, collaborating with massage therapists, personal trainers, and physical therapists. These colleagues form an ever more valuable source of referrals as they understand what the Feldenkrais Method has to offer in conjunction with the services they provide. My success in educating movement professionals about the value of Feldenkrais lessons is a direct result of the cognitve framework Larry brings to trainings and the value he places on being able to speak about our work." - Keith Johnson