Rolfing® Structural Integration Certification

Welcome to the Rolfing® Structural Integration (SI) Certification Program! The Rolfing SI Certification is the foundational learning program for the discipline of Rolfing Structural Integration, based on the teachings of Dr. Ida P. Rolf. This comprehensive program equips participants with the essential knowledge and skills needed to become Certified Rolfers and sets the standard for high-quality practices of Rolfing practitioners worldwide.

Rolfing® Structural Integration Certification Overview

  • Accredited training in Boulder, Colorado

  • 731-hour certification training program*

  • 28 weeks duration

  • 3 tuition phases, each requiring self-study

  • 3-week break between each phase

  • Faculty to Student ratio is limited to 1:10

    Tessy Brungardt teaching

    Rolfing students in the classroom

    You Will Learn:

    • The principles of Rolfing® Structural Integration 
    • How to conduct a complete Rolfing Ten-Seriesand Rolf Movement® session
    • How to recognize structural and functional patterns
    • The ability to differentiate through touch
    • Rolfing techniques
    • Professional ethics

    The Rolfing® SI Program is Suitable for Bodywork Beginners

    If you're new to massage and bodywork, rest assured, the Rolfing® SI Certification program is structured into three phases that will allow you to learn and progress at a steady, supportive pace. Phase I is specifically designed to help beginners build a solid foundation in the basics of anatomy, kinesiology, and physiology from the unique perspective of Structural Integration. As you advance through the program, you'll deepen your knowledge and gain hands-on experience essential for mastery of Rolfing techniques. Upon certification, you'll have ability to begin a fulfilling career dedicated to helping others achieve healthier lives with more balanced bodies. If you would like to make a lasting difference in your client's well-being, we warmly welcome you to the Rolfing Structural Integration Certification Program.

    Join a global community of Rolfers committed to excellence and transformative care!


    Rolfing® Structural Integration Program Phases

    Phase I - Foundations of Rolfing® Structural Integration

    Phase I offers a comprehensive introduction to the human body and essential skills for Rolfing® Structural Integration, specifically designed for students with no prior massage or bodywork experience or with only basic training. Through illustrated lectures, hands-on exercises, and guided palpation, you will receive personalized support to build foundational knowledge in perceptual acuity, efficient body use, and touch quality.

        Phase I Overview:

    • For the entry-level student.
    • 6 week intensive course (218 hours).
    • 5 days a week from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
    • Admissions process applies

    You will learn:

    • Anatomy, Kinesiology, and Physiology from the Rolfing® SI perspective.
    • Master guided palpation and touch using Skillful Touch, the Dr. Ida Rolf Institute’s clinical bodywork method.
    • How to build and maintain professional therapeutic relationships.
    • Prepare for the Life Sciences Exam required prior to Phase II.

    Phase II - Embodiment of Rolfing® Structural Integration and Rolf Movement® Integration

    In Phase II, you will develop skills to identify structural patterns, understand structure in relation to gravity, and learn the basics of Rolfing® Structural Integration and Rolf Movement principles. A study interval follows, during which mentorship with a Rolfer is strongly recommended to help integrate Phase II skills and prepare for Phase III.

        Phase II Overview:

    • For students training to become Certified Rolfers.
    • Prerequisites for admission: Satisfactory Academic Progress, Phase I grade of 70% or higher, and a passing score (70%+) on the DIRI Life Sciences Exam.
    • Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–6:00 p.m.
    • 8-week intensive course (244 hours).

    You will learn:

    • How to recognize simple structural patterns in the body's form and in its function, to see structure in relation to gravity.
    • Focus on your individual personal embodiment and understanding of the Principles of Rolfing® SI.
    • Establish a working knowledge of the basic principles and theories of Rolfing® SI and Rolf Movement® Integration.

    Phase III - Clinical Application of Rolfing® Theory

    Phase III is the clinical stage where the focus shifts from your personal experience to addressing the needs of individual clients. You will master the Ten-Series and Rolf Movement sessions by working with community clients under the supervision of an instructor. Training includes classroom work, client clinics, lectures, demonstrations, and practicums, all designed to deepen your understanding and ability to perform each session based on the specific needs of your client.

        Phase III Overview:

    • For students training to become Certified Rolfers.
    • 8-week intensive course (269 hours).
    • Monday–Friday, 8:30 a.m.–7:30 p.m. (clinic schedule dependent).
    • Prerequisites: Satisfactory Academic Progress and a cumulative score of 70%+ in Phases I and II. 

    You will learn:

    • How to practice efficient body use and self-care whilst working.
    • How to build therapeutic client-practitioner relationships.
    • Improve your touch quality and body-reading skills.
    • Learn essential business and practice-building strategies.
    • Understand professional ethics and public education strategies. 

    Are you ready to become a Rolfer?

    When you enroll in the Rolfing® Structural Integration Certification program, you will embark on a transformative journey beginning with mastering the principles of Rolfing SI and Skillful Touch. As you progress, you will deepen your understanding of the body’s structure in relation to gravity and gain hands-on experience working with clients in real-world settings. You will finish the program as a Certified Rolfer, with the ability to skillfully target your client’s unique needs using Rolfing techniques.

    The Dr. Ida Rolf Institute® is committed to the educational development of Rolfers and to maintaining the highest standards of clinical excellence. Therefore, as you progress in your career as a Rolfer, you will have access to additional continuing education courses, such as the Rolf Movement® and Advanced Rolfing® programs, to further develop your knowledge and Rolfing techniques.

    Apply now for the Rolfing SI certification program - master the art of Structural Integration and develop the skills to create a thriving Rolfing® practice. Your journey to a rewarding career as a Rolfer starts today!

    Apply Now to Become a Rolfer™!

    Learning Pathway for the Rolfing® student



    Rolfing® Structural Integration Certification Accreditation: Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation (COMTA)

    This Rolfing® Certification Program is accredited by The Commission on Massage Therapy Accreditation. In order to graduate from an accredited program, all three phases of the program must be attended at the Dr. Ida Rolf Institute® in Boulder, CO. International, and regional school programs are not accredited by COMTA.

    The Dr. Ida Rolf Institute® is State Approved

    DIRI is approved by the Colorado Department of Higher Education, Division of Private Occupational Schools.