Embarking on Pilates teacher training is an exciting journey, opening doors to not just mastering the Pilates method but also sharing its benefits with others. It’s about equipping yourself with the skills to guide and inspire, blending movement principles with practical skills. Certification goes beyond a mere qualification; it reflects your dedication to providing a safe, effective, and enriching Pilates experience. Choosing the right program is a personal journey, influenced by your aspirations and driven by the desire to learn from the best. This process is not just about gaining a certificate but about joining a community committed to wellness, empowerment, and lifelong learning.

The Importance of Certification

Certification is not just a piece of paper; it’s a testament to your dedication, knowledge, and commitment to safety and effectiveness in teaching Pilates. Programs like Balanced Body, Stott Pilates, and BASI Pilates offer in-depth training that covers anatomy, the principles of Pilates, teaching techniques, and equipment use. Such certification is crucial for gaining employment at studios, ensuring you’re insured, and, most importantly, providing the best and safest experience for your clients.

Choosing the Right Program

It’s important to clearly understand your motivations for entering into Pilates teacher training. Whether it’s for personal development, to enhance your existing career in fitness or therapy, or to embark on a new career path. Knowing your “why” can guide you to the most suitable program for your goals.

Learn from the Best: Seek programs taught by experienced instructors with a solid background in Pilates, especially those who have run their own studios. This real-world experience is invaluable. The Pilates Center and Stott Pilates list their master instructors and their credentials, offering insight into the expertise you can learn from. Selecting the right training program is a significant decision. Look for accredited programs that offer a comprehensive curriculum, including mat and equipment training, anatomy, and teaching methodology. Consider the program’s philosophy, the experience and credentials of the faculty, and the opportunities to practice teaching. Training programs vary in length, cost and intensity, so find one that fits your learning style and life commitments.

Value Practical Training: Look for programs that offer substantial practical training hours. Hands-on experience is crucial for developing the skills to create safe and effective Pilates classes. The Pilates Foundation and Balanced Body provide details on their comprehensive practical training components. Opt for as much in-person training hours as possible, Online-only teacher training courses aren’t likely to be accepted for job interviews. Choose a training location that is feasible for you in terms of both time and money. Consider online options if travel is prohibitive, as many reputable programs now offer virtual training sessions. Check out Polestar Pilates and BASI Pilates for hybrid and online training options.

Types of Training Programs – Classical vs. Contemporary: Pilates teacher training programs can broadly be categorized into two types: Classical, which adheres to the original exercises and philosophies developed by Joseph Pilates, and Contemporary, which includes adaptations and modifications to cater to modern fitness and rehabilitation needs. This diversity means there’s a style and approach to suit every aspiring instructor’s passion and preference. 

It is crucial to distinguish between different types of practices, such as Pilates-based fitness classes (e.g., Solidcore, Megaformer, or Lagree) and traditional Pilates. The distinction lies not just in the name but in the depth of training, focus on safety, and the principles guiding the practice. Aspiring instructors should seek comprehensive training from certified programs that teach not only the exercises but the philosophy and science behind Pilates. Understanding the differences between these approaches can help you choose a program that aligns with your teaching philosophy and career aspirations.

Training Modules and Requirements: Comprehensive programs usually include around 500 hours of training. These cover various Pilates exercises and techniques, with a focus on proper form and technique, and adapting workouts to individual needs.

Certification and Exams: Certification involves both practical and written exams.
While it’s not technically necessary to teach Pilates with a qualification, having one is often crucial for insurance purposes and job opportunities.

Investment and Cost: Training costs can be significant, so it’s essential to view this as an investment in your future career. Quality training programs often offer more than just certification; they provide the foundation for a successful and fulfilling career in Pilates. Consider the long-term benefits of the training when evaluating the cost. Costs vary but generally range from $2,500 to $10,000, depending on the scope of the training.

Building a Career in Pilates:

Beyond teaching Pilates, there are opportunities for career growth in studio ownership, speciality areas of Pilates instruction (such as rehabilitation or athletic performance), and in integrating Pilates with other fitness and wellness modalities. Continuous professional development and networking within the Pilates community can open up these opportunities.

Career Opportunities: Pilates instructors can work in studios, fitness centers, rehabilitation centers, or in private practice. They may also specialize in areas like prenatal/postnatal, orthopedic concerns, or athletic performance. Some pursue careers in physical therapy, rehabilitation, or continuing education and teacher training. The demand for Pilates is strong, and instructors find ample opportunities for employment.

Embracing the Pilates Community

The Pilates community is a rich resource for aspiring instructors. Engage with forums, attend workshops, and connect with other Pilates professionals. Learning from the experiences of others can provide valuable insights, inspiration, and support as you navigate your training and early teaching experiences.

Continuous Learning

Pilates instruction is a journey, not a destination. Continuing education is vital for staying current with the latest research, techniques, and teaching methods. Whether through workshops, advanced certifications, or exploring related disciplines like yoga or dance, ongoing learning will enrich your practice and teaching.

Pilates is for Everyone

Being a Pilates instructor is more than leading exercises; it’s about guiding individuals on a path to better health and wellness. It requires patience, empathy, and a deep understanding of the human body. Instructors must be attentive to their students’ needs, adapting sessions to meet diverse goals and abilities, and fostering a supportive and empowering environment.

The beauty of Pilates is its adaptability to different bodies, needs, and goals. Whether teaching a seasoned athlete or someone with a physical disability, a good Pilates instructor knows how to modify exercises and use the method’s principles to benefit each individual. This inclusivity not only makes Pilates a versatile practice but also opens up a wide range of clientele for instructors and niche specializations.

Resources

Popular Pilates Teacher Training Programs:

• Balanced Body Pilates Training
• Pilates Method Alliance
• STOTT PILATES Instructor Training
• BASI Pilates
• Polestar Pilates Education
• The Pilates Center Teacher Training
• Power Pilates Teacher Training
• Fletcher Pilates Comprehensive Program

Changing Training Types: It’s often possible to change teacher training types. Some schools offer bridging programs for this purpose:

1. Polestar Pilates Transition Series: This series is for those who have already completed a comprehensive Pilates program and focuses on enhancing critical thinking, assessment, and program design.
2. BASI Pilates ProBridge Programs: These programs are designed for qualified Pilates professionals to study the BASI approach in an intensive format, covering all the material of their comprehensive Pilates Teacher Training Program.
3. Balanced Body Bridging Options: Balanced Body offers bridging programs for various levels including Mat, Reformer, Mat & Reformer, and Comprehensive training, catering to a diverse range of students and training backgrounds.

For detailed insights and specific program information, visit the respective websites. If you have specific questions about courses, feel free to ask on the Reddit Pilates Forum.

Embarking on a journey to become a Pilates instructor is both exciting and transformative. Pilates, a method designed to strengthen the body, improve flexibility, and foster a deeper connection between mind and body, offers a path not just to physical wellness but to a fulfilling career helping others achieve their health goals.

Books

• Teach Pilates with Confidence: A comprehensive guide to movement teaching and class planning
• Science of Pilates: Understand the Anatomy and Physiology to Perfect Your Practice (DK Science of)
• Essential reading – Return to Life by Joseph H. Pilates â€“ The original Pilates exercise book written by the creator and visionary of the Pilates method of exercise, Joseph H. Pilates.

Have a question? Ask on our Pilates forum