Becoming a certified Pilates instructor is more than just a career move; it’s an opportunity to inspire and guide others toward healthier, more balanced lives. Whether you’re an aspiring instructor or a fitness studio owner looking to expand your offerings, Pilates instructor training is a crucial step that will open doors for both personal growth and business success. In most regions, it’s a legal requirement to have Pilates instructor training, and it is highly important to have in relation to insurance and liability.
Before you even think of setting up your studio, you’re going to need to get your Pilates Instructor Training organized.
But what exactly does Pilates instructor training entail? And how do you get started? In this guide, we’ll break down the process, key components, and benefits of becoming a certified Pilates instructor.
Importance of Pilates Instructor Training: Pilates Certification is a legal requirement for becoming a Pilates instructor. There are a number of official bodies you can train with to become a certified instructor (read below).
Key Components of Training: Pilates instructor training includes anatomy, teaching techniques, client assessments, and hands-on practice, with a final set of teaching hours required for full certification.
Business Growth Potential: Pilates instructors are in high demand, and the initial investment can be pay off quite quickly.
Why Becoming a Certified Pilates Instructor is Important
With the surge in popularity of Pilates, the demand for qualified instructors is higher than ever. People are increasingly drawn to Pilates for its holistic approach, focusing on core strength, flexibility, and mental well-being.
For fitness professionals, certification in Pilates is not just a credential—it’s a legal requirement if you want to teach it. If you’re already a personal trainer, yoga teacher, or fitness professional, becoming a Pilates instructor could be a great career move. The demand for instructors is high, with Pilates being one of the most popular forms of fitness training in the world right now.
But demand for instructors is high for a reason; it’s not an easy path to becoming a Pilates instructor. Here’s how.
How to Complete Pilates Instructor Training
1. Choosing the Right Certification Program
There are several reputable organizations offering Pilates certification, such as the Pilates Method Alliance (PMA), Balanced Body, and STOTT Pilates. When selecting a program, consider factors like:
- Accreditation: Ensure the program is recognized within the industry.
- Format: Do you prefer online, in-person, or hybrid training?
- Curriculum: Look for comprehensive programs that cover mat, Reformer, and apparatus training, along with anatomy and biomechanics.
Pro Tip: Many programs also require practical hours, so it’s a good idea to find one that provides hands-on teaching experience to build your confidence as an instructor. Remote education may be a good start, but nothing replaces physical and practical time in the studio.
2. Building Essential Skills as a Pilates Instructor
Pilates instructor training covers a wide range of skills designed that are not just about the practical elements of teaching Pilates. There are also:
- Teaching techniques: Learn how to structure classes, guide group and one-on-one sessions, and keep clients motivated.
- Verbal cueing and adjustments: Master the art of giving clear, concise instructions and physical adjustments to ensure clients perform exercises safely.
- Client assessment: Understand how to tailor exercises to clients of all fitness levels, from beginners to advanced practitioners.
These skills will help you confidently lead classes, providing personalized attention and modifications for clients with different abilities. Even if you don’t continue to become a Pilates instructor, these skills are priceless in any fitness professional role.
What to Expect in Your Pilates Instructor Training Journey
The journey to becoming a certified Pilates instructor typically involves several key phases, each designed to give you a comprehensive understanding of the Pilates method.
Here’s what you can expect in your training:
Anatomy and Physiology: A deep dive into how the body moves, focusing on the muscles and joints involved in Pilates exercises.
Mat and Reformer Training: Learning to teach on both the mat and Pilates Reformer.
Movement Principles: Understanding the core principles of Pilates, including breath, concentration, control, and precision.
Hands-on Teaching Practice: Most programs require you to complete a set number of teaching hours before certification. This practical experience is invaluable in developing your confidence as an instructor.
Free Fitness Business Plan Template
Discover moreYou’re Finally Qualified; Now What?
Now it’s time for you to come to a fork in the road: do you set up your own studio, or join another?
This is a nuanced question, and it will often be entirely specific to every individual. Setting up your own studio is a great idea if you have the time, capital, and available audience waiting to be taught. However, it’s a far larger risk than just joining a gym or studio as an instructor.
For many people just starting out as a Pilates instructor, it may be a better idea to start off teaching in a larger gym or in someone else’s studio. This allows you to build up your experience, member base, and get vital tips and info from the business owners you work with.
How ABC Glofox Elevates Your Pilates Studio
ABC Glofox is a Pilates Studio platform that can help you with every element of running your Pilates studio. From managing your revenue intake to a custom-branded app for you to use, ABC Glofox is a future-proof, industry-leading platform that can help you build a sustainable and profitable Pilates studio.
Here’s Joy Bitonio, a Pilates studio owner, explaining how ABC Glofox helped to scale her business.
Want to learn more about how you can grow a sustainable and successful Pilates studio with ABC Glofox?
