Training Pathways

Various Paths Lead to Structural Integration

The Association for Rolfing® & Structural Integration Switzerland itself is not a training institute. We provide information here about the various recognised training courses with a qualification in Structural Integration.

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Training in the Structural Integration Method

Training in Structural Integration provides in-depth knowledge of fascia, posture, movement and manual bodywork based on the principles of Dr. Ida Rolf. The aim of the method is to trigger sustainable change processes in the body in order to rebalance the body and make it more mobile. The training usually lasts three years.

There are various schools worldwide recognized by the International Association of Structural Integrators (IASI). The training includes general anatomy, specific fascial anatomy, manual fascial release techniques, movement theory, palpation, perception training, and other professional skills.

Depending on the school or training direction, graduates use the professional titles: Structural Integration Practitioner, Certified Rolfer®, Complementary Therapist with industry certificate or federal diploma Method Structural Integration.

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Styles within Structural Integration

In Switzerland and abroad, there are various recognised schools that teach Structural Integration. All training courses are based on the same basic principles. However, the individual training courses differ somewhat in their methodology and training structure, the duration of training, methodological focuses as well as international networking and integration into the Swiss complementary therapy system.

In the following, we will briefly introduce those schools whose graduates are represented in Switzerland:

apamed

The apamed course in Structural Integration is currently the only accredited training course in Switzerland that leads directly to the industry certificate in Complementary Therapy from the Professional Organisation Complementary Therapy (OdA KT).

To apamed

European Rolfing® Association (ERA)

If you would like to complete training in Rolfing®, you can attend the training course at the Dr. Ida Rolf Institute or the European Rolfing® Association in Munich. The training focuses on the original treatment series according to Dr. Ida Rolf. After the basic training, there is the possibility of further training as a so-called Rolf Movement™️ Practitioner and, after several years of professional experience, also as an Advanced Rolfer®.

To ERA

Anatomy Trains Structural Integration (ATSI)

The training in Anatomy Trains Structural Integration according to Thomas W. Myers focuses on the myofascial pathways ("Anatomy Trains"). The treatment series comprises 12 sessions, which follow the Anatomy Trains. The training is divided into three parts: Structural Essentials, Structural Strategies and Structural Integration. It is offered worldwide in modular form. In Switzerland, the courses take place in German.

To Anatomy Trains Switzerland
To Anatomy Trains worldwide

European Guild of Structural Integration (EGSI)

The European Guild of Structural Integration conducts its training in accordance with the principles established by Dr. Ida Rolf, maintaining the integrity of the original ten-session protocol without alterations or incorporation of external modalities. The curriculum places strong emphasis on experiential learning and supervision by highly qualified practitioners. The Basic Training in Switzerland is delivered in German, English, and French.

To EGSI
Basic Training in Switzerland

Recognition in the Swiss Healthcare System

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FAQ

How long does the training take?

The training usually lasts three years and is structured as part-time. It consists of several modules that build on each other, with theory, practice, and supervision.

What prerequisites do I need to have?

The prerequisite is generally a completed school and vocational education. Depending on prior knowledge, additional knowledge in manual bodywork or self-experience in the field of body therapy is required. The requirements of the respective schools may vary and must be discussed directly with the school.

Is the training recognised by health insurance companies?

After successful completion and registration with EMR, ASCA, or Visana, billing via supplementary insurance is possible. Some health insurance companies require further certificates, such as the industry certificate from OdA-KT.

What distinguishes the schools from each other?

The schools differ in their methodology, the teaching approach, the international connection and in the weighting of certain content (e.g. movement, psychodynamics or fascial lines).