STOTT PILATES WRITTEN EXAM | 2026/2027 Edition Merrithew Official Testing Blueprint
STOTT PILATES WRITTEN EXAM
100% Correct Answers | Real Exam Format | 2026/2027 Edition
Aligned with Merrithew™ STOTT Pilates Official Written Testing Blueprint · 200 Questions · 9 Sections ·
Cognitive Levels: 25% Recall, 50% Application, 25% Analysis
Section 1: Stott Pilates Principles & Core Concepts
Q1: A new client is performing the Hundred in supine with both legs extended to 90 degrees.
She begins to arch her lower back away from the mat as she tires. According to the STOTT
Pilates Five Basic Principles, which principle is most directly compromised, and what is the
appropriate modification?
A. Pelvic Placement — switch from neutral to an imprinted position only if legs are lowered
below 45 degrees.
B. Pelvic Placement — lower the legs only to a point where neutral lumbar spine can be
maintained, or table-top the legs. *[CORRECT]*
C. Rib Cage Placement — cue the ribs to soften into the mat to prevent rib flare.
D. Breathing — instruct lateral thoracic breathing to re-engage the deep abdominal cylinder.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In STOTT Pilates methodology, neutral pelvic placement is the goal during loaded
exercises such as the Hundred; the moment the lumbar spine extends (arches), the load has
exceeded the client's deep stabilizer endurance, and the legs must be table-topped or raised to a
height where neutral can be sustained. Option A misapplies imprint, which is reserved for static
stabilization or when neutral cannot be maintained safely. Options C and D address valid principles
but do not correct the mechanical fault described.
Q2: Which breathing pattern is most consistent with the STOTT Pilates approach during the
preparation phase of the Hundred?
A. Inhale through the nose for 5 counts, exhale through pursed lips for 5 counts, repeated 10
cycles.
B. Inhale deeply into the abdomen to recruit the diaphragm, then exhale through the mouth
forcefully.
C. Inhale through the nose laterally into the ribcage, exhale through pursed lips engaging
the deep pelvic floor and transversus abdominis. *[CORRECT]*
D. Inhale and exhale through the nose in a 3:3 ratio while maintaining a relaxed abdominal wall.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: STOTT Pilates emphasizes lateral thoracic breathing on the inhale (through the nose)
and a forced exhale (through pursed lips) that facilitates activation of the deep local stabilizers —
the pelvic floor and transversus abdominis. This differs from classical Pilates, which often uses a
5-count in/out cadence (Option A). Abdominal breathing (Option B) inhibits transversus activation,
and pure nasal breathing with a relaxed abdomen (Option D) fails to recruit the core cylinder
required for the Hundred.
STOTT PILATES CERTIFICATION | 200 Questions | 100% Correct Answers Page 1
,STOTT PILATES WRITTEN EXAM | 2026/2027 Edition Merrithew Official Testing Blueprint
Q3: During the supine Footwork prep on the Reformer, the instructor notices the client's
ASIS is significantly higher on the right than the left when lying supine. Which statement
best describes the pelvic placement principle in this scenario?
A. The pelvis is in a neutral position because the lumbar curve is preserved.
B. The pelvis demonstrates a rotational asymmetry that must be addressed before loading
the lower extremities. *[CORRECT]*
C. The client should immediately move into an imprinted position to correct the rotation.
D. The asymmetry is normal anatomical variation and does not require correction.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Neutral pelvis in STOTT Pilates is defined not only by ASIS-pubis alignment in the
sagittal plane but also by bilateral symmetry in the frontal and transverse planes. A unilateral ASIS
elevation signals pelvic rotation or sacroiliac asymmetry that should be screened and corrected
through appropriate cueing, props, or referral before progressive loading. Option A conflates
sagittal neutrality with three-dimensional neutrality. Imprinting (Option C) addresses
anterior/posterior tilt, not rotation, and Option D dismisses a clinically meaningful asymmetry.
Q4: A client with a known lumbar disc herniation at L4-L5 is performing the Roll Up on the
mat. Which phase of the movement presents the greatest risk, and what is the most
appropriate STOTT Pilates modification?
A. The return phase from seated to supine — modify by bending the knees and using a
Flex-Band for assistance. *[CORRECT]*
B. The lift phase from supine to seated — modify by stacking the spine into flexion and cueing
chin-to-chest.
C. Both phases equally — replace the Roll Up entirely with the Spine Twist seated exercise.
D. The breath cycle — modify by holding the breath during the lift phase to stabilize the spine.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: For a client with lumbar disc herniation, sustained or repetitive end-range flexion under
load — particularly the eccentric lowering phase of the Roll Up — increases intradiscal pressure and
risks posterior disc bulge aggravation. STOTT Pilates modifications include bending the knees to
shorten the lever, using a Flex-Band or Magic Circle under the thighs for assistance, and avoiding
the deepest flexion range. Option B cues the contraindicated chin-to-chest stacking. Option C is
overly restrictive, and Option D violates the breathing principle — breath holding raises
intra-abdominal pressure chaotically.
Q5: Which of the following best defines the STOTT Pilates principle of Scapular Movement
and Stabilization?
A. The scapulae should remain retracted and depressed throughout every exercise to prevent
shoulder impingement.
B. The scapulae must move freely on the ribcage in all planes while the stabilizing
musculature (lower trapezius, serratus anterior) maintains appropriate upward/downward
rotation and gliding. *[CORRECT]*
C. The scapulae should be pinned to the ribcage in a retracted position during all upper-body
loaded movements.
D. The scapulae move passively and require no conscious stabilization during Matwork.
Correct Answer: B
STOTT PILATES CERTIFICATION | 200 Questions | 100% Correct Answers Page 2
,STOTT PILATES WRITTEN EXAM | 2026/2027 Edition Merrithew Official Testing Blueprint
Rationale: STOTT Pilates recognizes that the scapulae are not fixed structures — they must glide,
tip, rotate, elevate, and depress in coordination with humeral movement, while the lower trapezius
and serratus anterior provide dynamic stabilization to avoid over-recruiting the upper trapezius
and levator scapulae. Options A and C reflect a common teaching error (forced retraction) that
promotes rhomboid dominance and inhibits serratus activation. Option D ignores the active
stabilization that defines the STOTT approach.
Q6: A client performing the Single Leg Stretch demonstrates excessive rib cage flare during
the extension phase. Which anatomical structure should the instructor cue to address this
deviation?
A. Rectus abdominis — cue to flatten the ribs toward the iliac crest.
B. External obliques and transversus abdominis — cue to draw the lower ribs down and in
toward the pelvis. *[CORRECT]*
C. Diaphragm — cue to inhale more deeply to expand the lower ribs.
D. Pectoralis major — cue to adduct the arms to depress the ribcage.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Rib cage flare in supine flexion indicates loss of the abdominal wall's control of the
lower ribs, particularly the external obliques and transversus abdominis. The STOTT cue is to draw
the lower ribs 'down and in' toward the pelvis, maintaining a soft, connected ribcage-to-pelvis
relationship. Option A over-recruits rectus abdominis, which can cause the ribs to flare further if
the obliques are underactive. Option C would worsen the flare, and Option D is mechanically
irrelevant to rib positioning.
Q7: Which of the following best describes the relationship between head and cervical spine
placement in STOTT Pilates?
A. The cervical spine should always be in maximal flexion during supine flexion exercises to
engage the deep neck flexors.
B. The cervical spine should maintain its natural curve, with the head supported as needed
by props (e.g., head cushion) to avoid upper cervical hyperextension, especially in clients
with a forward head posture. *[CORRECT]*
C. The cervical spine should be flat against the mat at all times during supine work.
D. The cervical spine should follow the lumbar spine in flexion to ensure spinal unity.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: STOTT Pilates preserves the natural cervical curve and uses head cushions or folded
towels to support the head in clients with a forward head posture, preventing upper cervical
hyperextension during supine flexion. Maximal cervical flexion (Option A) over-recruits the
sternocleidomastoid and inhibits the deep neck flexors — the opposite of the desired pattern. A flat
cervical spine (Option C) is unnatural, and Option D ignores the regional differences between
lumbar and cervical curves.
Q8: A client is performing the Saw in a seated position. As she rotates to the right, she
compensates by laterally flexing to the left instead of maintaining axial length. Which cue
best addresses this compensation using STOTT methodology?
A. 'Reach your right pinky toe with your left hand, letting the spine side-bend.'
STOTT PILATES CERTIFICATION | 200 Questions | 100% Correct Answers Page 3
, STOTT PILATES WRITTEN EXAM | 2026/2027 Edition Merrithew Official Testing Blueprint
B. 'Grow taller through the crown of your head as you rotate, maintaining equal weight on
both sit bones.' *[CORRECT]*
C. 'Drop your right shoulder toward the floor to deepen the rotation.'
D. 'Push harder through your right hand to amplify the stretch.'
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The Saw is fundamentally a rotation exercise, not a lateral flexion exercise. STOTT
cueing emphasizes axial elongation ('grow taller') and grounded sit bones to ensure pure rotation
through the thoracic spine. Options A and C introduce lateral flexion and shoulder dropping, which
defeat the exercise's intent. Option D encourages over-reach rather than controlled rotation.
Q9: Which of the following best differentiates imprint from neutral pelvic placement in
STOTT Pilates?
A. Imprint is achieved by posteriorly tilting the pelvis until the lumbar spine flattens against the
mat and is held isometrically throughout the entire session.
B. Imprint is a slight posterior pelvic tilt, engaging the obliques to bring the lumbar spine
gently toward the mat, used when neutral cannot be maintained or when the legs are in a
loaded position beyond the client's control. *[CORRECT]*
C. Neutral pelvis requires a flattened lumbar spine, while imprint requires an exaggerated
lumbar curve.
D. Imprint is contraindicated for all populations except postpartum clients.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: STOTT Pilates defines imprint as a gentle posterior tilt produced by oblique activation,
used as a stabilizing strategy when neutral cannot be maintained under load (e.g., when lowering
legs past the threshold of deep stabilizer control) or for specific clinical indications. Imprint is not a
static 'all session' position (Option A). Option C reverses the definitions, and Option D is incorrect —
imprint is appropriate in multiple clinical scenarios, not only postpartum.
Q10: A healthy 35-year-old client demonstrates a neutral pelvis in supine with both feet on
the mat. As she lifts one leg to tabletop, the lumbar spine begins to extend. What is the most
appropriate STOTT Pilates progression or regression?
A. Progress the exercise by lowering the lifted leg further toward the mat.
B. Regress the exercise by keeping the lifted foot on the mat (toe taps only) until neutral can
be maintained. *[CORRECT]*
C. Progress the exercise by adding a Flex-Band for resistance.
D. Regress the exercise by switching to an imprinted pelvis throughout.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Loss of neutral when one leg lifts to tabletop indicates insufficient deep stabilizer
endurance to control the load. The STOTT progression is to first master the toe-tap variation
(smaller lever, foot returns to mat) before progressing to tabletop. Option A would worsen the fault.
Option C adds load before stability is achieved, contradicting the STOTT principle of stability before
mobility. Option D (imprint) is a valid modification for some populations but is not the first-line
regression for a healthy client — improving neutral control is preferred.
Q11: In STOTT Pilates, which muscle sling is most active during the alternating
hand-to-knee action of the Single Leg Stretch?
STOTT PILATES CERTIFICATION | 200 Questions | 100% Correct Answers Page 4
STOTT PILATES WRITTEN EXAM
100% Correct Answers | Real Exam Format | 2026/2027 Edition
Aligned with Merrithew™ STOTT Pilates Official Written Testing Blueprint · 200 Questions · 9 Sections ·
Cognitive Levels: 25% Recall, 50% Application, 25% Analysis
Section 1: Stott Pilates Principles & Core Concepts
Q1: A new client is performing the Hundred in supine with both legs extended to 90 degrees.
She begins to arch her lower back away from the mat as she tires. According to the STOTT
Pilates Five Basic Principles, which principle is most directly compromised, and what is the
appropriate modification?
A. Pelvic Placement — switch from neutral to an imprinted position only if legs are lowered
below 45 degrees.
B. Pelvic Placement — lower the legs only to a point where neutral lumbar spine can be
maintained, or table-top the legs. *[CORRECT]*
C. Rib Cage Placement — cue the ribs to soften into the mat to prevent rib flare.
D. Breathing — instruct lateral thoracic breathing to re-engage the deep abdominal cylinder.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In STOTT Pilates methodology, neutral pelvic placement is the goal during loaded
exercises such as the Hundred; the moment the lumbar spine extends (arches), the load has
exceeded the client's deep stabilizer endurance, and the legs must be table-topped or raised to a
height where neutral can be sustained. Option A misapplies imprint, which is reserved for static
stabilization or when neutral cannot be maintained safely. Options C and D address valid principles
but do not correct the mechanical fault described.
Q2: Which breathing pattern is most consistent with the STOTT Pilates approach during the
preparation phase of the Hundred?
A. Inhale through the nose for 5 counts, exhale through pursed lips for 5 counts, repeated 10
cycles.
B. Inhale deeply into the abdomen to recruit the diaphragm, then exhale through the mouth
forcefully.
C. Inhale through the nose laterally into the ribcage, exhale through pursed lips engaging
the deep pelvic floor and transversus abdominis. *[CORRECT]*
D. Inhale and exhale through the nose in a 3:3 ratio while maintaining a relaxed abdominal wall.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: STOTT Pilates emphasizes lateral thoracic breathing on the inhale (through the nose)
and a forced exhale (through pursed lips) that facilitates activation of the deep local stabilizers —
the pelvic floor and transversus abdominis. This differs from classical Pilates, which often uses a
5-count in/out cadence (Option A). Abdominal breathing (Option B) inhibits transversus activation,
and pure nasal breathing with a relaxed abdomen (Option D) fails to recruit the core cylinder
required for the Hundred.
STOTT PILATES CERTIFICATION | 200 Questions | 100% Correct Answers Page 1
,STOTT PILATES WRITTEN EXAM | 2026/2027 Edition Merrithew Official Testing Blueprint
Q3: During the supine Footwork prep on the Reformer, the instructor notices the client's
ASIS is significantly higher on the right than the left when lying supine. Which statement
best describes the pelvic placement principle in this scenario?
A. The pelvis is in a neutral position because the lumbar curve is preserved.
B. The pelvis demonstrates a rotational asymmetry that must be addressed before loading
the lower extremities. *[CORRECT]*
C. The client should immediately move into an imprinted position to correct the rotation.
D. The asymmetry is normal anatomical variation and does not require correction.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Neutral pelvis in STOTT Pilates is defined not only by ASIS-pubis alignment in the
sagittal plane but also by bilateral symmetry in the frontal and transverse planes. A unilateral ASIS
elevation signals pelvic rotation or sacroiliac asymmetry that should be screened and corrected
through appropriate cueing, props, or referral before progressive loading. Option A conflates
sagittal neutrality with three-dimensional neutrality. Imprinting (Option C) addresses
anterior/posterior tilt, not rotation, and Option D dismisses a clinically meaningful asymmetry.
Q4: A client with a known lumbar disc herniation at L4-L5 is performing the Roll Up on the
mat. Which phase of the movement presents the greatest risk, and what is the most
appropriate STOTT Pilates modification?
A. The return phase from seated to supine — modify by bending the knees and using a
Flex-Band for assistance. *[CORRECT]*
B. The lift phase from supine to seated — modify by stacking the spine into flexion and cueing
chin-to-chest.
C. Both phases equally — replace the Roll Up entirely with the Spine Twist seated exercise.
D. The breath cycle — modify by holding the breath during the lift phase to stabilize the spine.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: For a client with lumbar disc herniation, sustained or repetitive end-range flexion under
load — particularly the eccentric lowering phase of the Roll Up — increases intradiscal pressure and
risks posterior disc bulge aggravation. STOTT Pilates modifications include bending the knees to
shorten the lever, using a Flex-Band or Magic Circle under the thighs for assistance, and avoiding
the deepest flexion range. Option B cues the contraindicated chin-to-chest stacking. Option C is
overly restrictive, and Option D violates the breathing principle — breath holding raises
intra-abdominal pressure chaotically.
Q5: Which of the following best defines the STOTT Pilates principle of Scapular Movement
and Stabilization?
A. The scapulae should remain retracted and depressed throughout every exercise to prevent
shoulder impingement.
B. The scapulae must move freely on the ribcage in all planes while the stabilizing
musculature (lower trapezius, serratus anterior) maintains appropriate upward/downward
rotation and gliding. *[CORRECT]*
C. The scapulae should be pinned to the ribcage in a retracted position during all upper-body
loaded movements.
D. The scapulae move passively and require no conscious stabilization during Matwork.
Correct Answer: B
STOTT PILATES CERTIFICATION | 200 Questions | 100% Correct Answers Page 2
,STOTT PILATES WRITTEN EXAM | 2026/2027 Edition Merrithew Official Testing Blueprint
Rationale: STOTT Pilates recognizes that the scapulae are not fixed structures — they must glide,
tip, rotate, elevate, and depress in coordination with humeral movement, while the lower trapezius
and serratus anterior provide dynamic stabilization to avoid over-recruiting the upper trapezius
and levator scapulae. Options A and C reflect a common teaching error (forced retraction) that
promotes rhomboid dominance and inhibits serratus activation. Option D ignores the active
stabilization that defines the STOTT approach.
Q6: A client performing the Single Leg Stretch demonstrates excessive rib cage flare during
the extension phase. Which anatomical structure should the instructor cue to address this
deviation?
A. Rectus abdominis — cue to flatten the ribs toward the iliac crest.
B. External obliques and transversus abdominis — cue to draw the lower ribs down and in
toward the pelvis. *[CORRECT]*
C. Diaphragm — cue to inhale more deeply to expand the lower ribs.
D. Pectoralis major — cue to adduct the arms to depress the ribcage.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Rib cage flare in supine flexion indicates loss of the abdominal wall's control of the
lower ribs, particularly the external obliques and transversus abdominis. The STOTT cue is to draw
the lower ribs 'down and in' toward the pelvis, maintaining a soft, connected ribcage-to-pelvis
relationship. Option A over-recruits rectus abdominis, which can cause the ribs to flare further if
the obliques are underactive. Option C would worsen the flare, and Option D is mechanically
irrelevant to rib positioning.
Q7: Which of the following best describes the relationship between head and cervical spine
placement in STOTT Pilates?
A. The cervical spine should always be in maximal flexion during supine flexion exercises to
engage the deep neck flexors.
B. The cervical spine should maintain its natural curve, with the head supported as needed
by props (e.g., head cushion) to avoid upper cervical hyperextension, especially in clients
with a forward head posture. *[CORRECT]*
C. The cervical spine should be flat against the mat at all times during supine work.
D. The cervical spine should follow the lumbar spine in flexion to ensure spinal unity.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: STOTT Pilates preserves the natural cervical curve and uses head cushions or folded
towels to support the head in clients with a forward head posture, preventing upper cervical
hyperextension during supine flexion. Maximal cervical flexion (Option A) over-recruits the
sternocleidomastoid and inhibits the deep neck flexors — the opposite of the desired pattern. A flat
cervical spine (Option C) is unnatural, and Option D ignores the regional differences between
lumbar and cervical curves.
Q8: A client is performing the Saw in a seated position. As she rotates to the right, she
compensates by laterally flexing to the left instead of maintaining axial length. Which cue
best addresses this compensation using STOTT methodology?
A. 'Reach your right pinky toe with your left hand, letting the spine side-bend.'
STOTT PILATES CERTIFICATION | 200 Questions | 100% Correct Answers Page 3
, STOTT PILATES WRITTEN EXAM | 2026/2027 Edition Merrithew Official Testing Blueprint
B. 'Grow taller through the crown of your head as you rotate, maintaining equal weight on
both sit bones.' *[CORRECT]*
C. 'Drop your right shoulder toward the floor to deepen the rotation.'
D. 'Push harder through your right hand to amplify the stretch.'
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The Saw is fundamentally a rotation exercise, not a lateral flexion exercise. STOTT
cueing emphasizes axial elongation ('grow taller') and grounded sit bones to ensure pure rotation
through the thoracic spine. Options A and C introduce lateral flexion and shoulder dropping, which
defeat the exercise's intent. Option D encourages over-reach rather than controlled rotation.
Q9: Which of the following best differentiates imprint from neutral pelvic placement in
STOTT Pilates?
A. Imprint is achieved by posteriorly tilting the pelvis until the lumbar spine flattens against the
mat and is held isometrically throughout the entire session.
B. Imprint is a slight posterior pelvic tilt, engaging the obliques to bring the lumbar spine
gently toward the mat, used when neutral cannot be maintained or when the legs are in a
loaded position beyond the client's control. *[CORRECT]*
C. Neutral pelvis requires a flattened lumbar spine, while imprint requires an exaggerated
lumbar curve.
D. Imprint is contraindicated for all populations except postpartum clients.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: STOTT Pilates defines imprint as a gentle posterior tilt produced by oblique activation,
used as a stabilizing strategy when neutral cannot be maintained under load (e.g., when lowering
legs past the threshold of deep stabilizer control) or for specific clinical indications. Imprint is not a
static 'all session' position (Option A). Option C reverses the definitions, and Option D is incorrect —
imprint is appropriate in multiple clinical scenarios, not only postpartum.
Q10: A healthy 35-year-old client demonstrates a neutral pelvis in supine with both feet on
the mat. As she lifts one leg to tabletop, the lumbar spine begins to extend. What is the most
appropriate STOTT Pilates progression or regression?
A. Progress the exercise by lowering the lifted leg further toward the mat.
B. Regress the exercise by keeping the lifted foot on the mat (toe taps only) until neutral can
be maintained. *[CORRECT]*
C. Progress the exercise by adding a Flex-Band for resistance.
D. Regress the exercise by switching to an imprinted pelvis throughout.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Loss of neutral when one leg lifts to tabletop indicates insufficient deep stabilizer
endurance to control the load. The STOTT progression is to first master the toe-tap variation
(smaller lever, foot returns to mat) before progressing to tabletop. Option A would worsen the fault.
Option C adds load before stability is achieved, contradicting the STOTT principle of stability before
mobility. Option D (imprint) is a valid modification for some populations but is not the first-line
regression for a healthy client — improving neutral control is preferred.
Q11: In STOTT Pilates, which muscle sling is most active during the alternating
hand-to-knee action of the Single Leg Stretch?
STOTT PILATES CERTIFICATION | 200 Questions | 100% Correct Answers Page 4
