ABOUT BEING A PILATES TEACHER
Pilates can be a tremendously fulfilling part-time job or career choice. Here we give you some insights into what it takes to become a Pilates teacher.
BECOME A PILATES MAT TEACHER
The Pilates Mat Teacher training programme is designed to create thoughtful, creative and successful Pilates Mat Teachers. It will open your mind to the magic of movement and the joy of teaching.
The curriculum is rooted in the classical work that Joseph Pilates taught. You will also learn variations and modifications that were developed in response to scientific advances and the needs of today’s student for work that is safe, effective and fun.
The Mat Teacher Training Course is taught in modular segments. This gives students the flexibility to choose when to complete the programme. Each module is self-contained so you can take them as quickly or as slowly as your schedule and budget allow.
EDUCATION PREREQUISITES FOR PILATES MAT TEACHER TRAINING
The prerequisites to starting Pilates Mat Teacher training are that you fall into one or more of these categories:
A teacher in a recognized movement fitness discipline, e.g. PT, Dance, etc.
A rehabilitation professional, e.g. Physiotherapist
An enthusiast who has practised Pilates for at least 6 months
COURSE COST & STRUCTURE
The total cost of the Mat Teacher training course is £1,910. However, you only need book and pay for one module at a time, making your maximum outlay £430 at any one time.
There are four modules on the course. Each module is compulsory and they must be taken in sequence. There is a final test-out to gain your full Mat Teacher Certification.
MOVEMENT PRINCIPLES MODULE
(16 hours over 2 days - £430)
Learn how to recognize, improve and teach fundamental movement patterns.
Movement Principles is the foundation of the Balanced Body instructor training system. This module is designed for both new and experienced instructors to refine their understanding of the body in motion. The focus on practical understanding of common movement patterns prepares instructors to be excellent at problem solving, goal setting and learning new exercise techniques with ease.
MAT 1 MODULE
(16 hours over 2 days - £430)
Mat 1 forms the foundation of the Pilates method. This module includes an introduction to the history and principles of the Pilates method and the beginning and intermediate level exercises. Each exercise includes training on modifications, challenges, the purpose of the exercise and any precautions for injuries and special populations. How to design and teach group classes and guidelines for teaching seniors and pre and post–natal classes are included.
MAT 2 MODULE
(16 hours over 2 days - £430)
Mat 2 teaches the remaining intermediate and advanced level Mat exercises for a complete understanding of the Pilates Mat program. Lectures include progressive skill development to achieve the advanced exercises, programming for intermediate and advanced classes and creating successful Mat classes.
MAT 3 MODULE
(16 hours over 2 days - £430)
Enhanced Pilates Mat completes the mat training by adding rings, rollers, bands and balls to the traditional Mat exercises. In addition, Enhanced Mat includes functional exercises for the upper and lower body expanding the Mat work beyond the core to develop whole body strength and flexibility. The Balanced Body Programming System is introduced to make class design easy, effective and fun. Adding props to a mat class makes them more dynamic, creative and accessible.
SELF-STUDY ASSIGNMENTS
Prior to the final test-out, students must have logged: 20 Mat personal sessions, 15 Observation hours, 35 Student Teaching hours.
Personal Sessions: Students can count any classes or Pilates personal training sessions they have already taken. Developing and committing to a personal Pilates practice is an essential part of becoming an effective and inspiring instructor.
Observation Hours include watching experienced instructors teach group class or private sessions in person, online or watching the Instructor training videos. Observation is a great way to understand verbal and manual cueing, program sequencing and to hone your teaching skills.
Student Teaching Hours include any Pilates teaching either as an employee or self-employed at an appropriate venue. Teaching family and friends counts as well - this is how most students start teaching. It helps build confidence and refine your teaching skills before starting to teach the public. We help you with this process by providing advice & guidance, along with appropriate class plans.
FINAL TEST-OUT
(6 hours over 1 day—£190)
The final test-out involves a written exam and a practical exam. Upon completion of these elements you will become a fully qualified Balanced Body Mat Instructor and be awarded a Certificate of Completion.
The written exam is a combination of multiple choice, short answer questions and a section on class planning. The written exam covers exercise progressions, programming, appropriateness, organisation, special population & safety protocols.
During the practical exam your teaching skills will be evaluated in the following areas: Correct set–up and execution of the exercises; Client safety; Appropriate sequencing; Appropriateness of the exercises to the client or class; Understanding and application of the principles; Cueing and the ability to communicate with your client or class.
SUMMARY OF OVERALL COURSE CONTENT
Exercise instruction in pre-Pilates and the complete Mat repertoire.
Instruction in observing, analysing and correcting posture and movement imbalances.
Cueing, coaching and teaching tips for clients at different levels of ability.
Safety information for teaching older adults, pre & post-natal women, and clients with physical limitations.
Tips on teaching successful group programmes.
Sample programs to get you started.
INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF EACH MODULE ON THE COURSE
Instructor teaching fee
A detailed full-colour manual
Certificate of completion
Marketing assistance to help launch your journey as a Pilates Teacher
Refreshments: fruit, beverages & chocolate!
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
Travelling Costs & Parking
Accommodation Costs
Lunches. You are welcome to bring your own food. There are nearby cafes and shops.
OUR FOUNDATION COURSE PROVIDES YOU WITH ALL THE NECESSARY TRAINING AND SUPPORT TO BECOME A SUCCESSFUL PILATES MAT TEACHER
Download Mat Teacher Training Flyer (1,638 KB)
BECOME A PILATES REFORMER TEACHER
The Pilates Reformer is an extraordinarily flexible piece of exercise equipment allowing resistance and support for exercises involving every part of the body. The Programme gives you a thorough understanding of how to use the Reformer to develop core and extremity strength, stability, flexibility, coordination and balance. The wide range of exercises provides a stimulating and fun workout for clients at any level of ability.
The Reformer Teacher Training Course is taught in modular segments. This gives students the flexibility to choose when to complete the programme. Each module is self-contained so you can take them as quickly or as slowly as your schedule and budget allow.
COURSE COST & STRUCTURE
The total cost of the Reformer Teacher training course is £1,910 (£1,480 if you have already completed Movement Principles). However, you only need book and pay for one module at a time, making your maximum outlay around £430 at any one time.
There are four modules on the course. Each module is compulsory and they must be taken in sequence.
An Anatomy qualification is also required before completing the course. Subject to approval, this can be from any other training body or it can be Balanced Body's Anatomy in 3 Dimensions qualification (extra £430).
There is a final test-out to gain your full Reformer Teacher Certification.
MOVEMENT PRINCIPLES MODULE*
(16 hours over 2 days - £430)
The Principles include the most important information on anatomy, assessment, biomechanics and foundational exercises needed to become a successful Pilates teacher. This module mixes information on how the body works with basic exercises to illustrate the information in movement. It provides a solid foundation for the remainder of the Course.
*Movement Principles is not required for students who have already gained their Balanced Body Mat qualification. It is required for those without a Mat qualification who are on the Reformer only teacher training track and for those who have a non Balanced Body Mat qualification.
REFORMER 1 MODULE
(16 hours over 2 days - £430)
This module introduces the Universal Reformer, the centre piece of the Pilates equipment studio and an invaluable training tool. Reformer 1 includes an introduction to safely using the Pilates Reformer for a wide variety of supine, seated and standing exercises for the beginning to intermediate student. Movement Principles include improving lower body alignment, creating balanced muscle development and learning a protocol for effectively training the upper body.
REFORMER 2 MODULE
(16 hours over 2 days - £430)
This module expands the potential of the Reformer with intermediate and advanced exercises and modifications along with programs designs for special populations including pre–and post–natal clients and clients with osteoporosis and lower back injuries. Class design, dynamic assessment and correcting common dysfunctional movement patterns are also included.
REFORMER 3 MODULE
(16 hours over 2 days - £430)
This module is the pinnacle of the Reformer work and includes advanced and super advanced exercises to challenge clients to achieve their best. Progressive sequences designed to teach students advanced movement skills are included along with an introduction to the revolutionary Principle Based Programming System helping you to create successful classes for clients at any level.
SELF-STUDY ASSIGNMENTS
Prior to the final test-out, students must have logged: 30 Reformer personal sessions, 30 Observation hours, 60 Student Teaching hours (90 Student Teaching hours for those on the Reformer only teacher training track).
Personal Sessions: Students can count any classes or Pilates personal training sessions they have already taken. Developing and committing to a personal Pilates practice is an essential part of becoming an effective and inspiring instructor.
Observation Hours include watching experienced instructors teach group class or private sessions in person, online or watching the Instructor training videos. Observation is a great way to understand verbal and manual cueing, program sequencing and to hone your teaching skills.
Student Teaching Hours include any Pilates teaching either as an employee or self-employed at an appropriate venue. Teaching family and friends counts as well - this is how most students start teaching. It helps build confidence and refine your teaching skills before starting to teach the public. We help you with this process by providing advice & guidance, along with appropriate class plans.
REFORMER FINAL TEST-OUT
(6 hours over 1 day - £190)
To gain your final certificate as a Pilates Reformer Teacher there is a one-day Test-Out which involves a written exam and a practical exam teaching a 1-hour class.
The written exam is a combination of multiple choice, short answer questions and a section on class planning. The written exam covers exercise progressions, programming, appropriateness, organisation, special population, equipment setup & maintenance & safety protocols.
During the practical exam your teaching skills will be evaluated in the following areas: Correct set–up and execution of the exercises; Client safety; Appropriate sequencing; Appropriateness of the exercises to the client or class; Understanding and application of the principles; Cueing and the ability to communicate with your client or class.
SUMMARY OF OVERALL COURSE CONTENT
Exercise instruction in the complete Pilates Reformer repertoire along with modifications and
additional exercises.
Successful class design and delivery based on the Movement Principles and Balanced Body
Programming System.
Instruction in observing and analysing posture and movement.
Development of cueing, coaching and teaching skills.
Guidelines for teaching older adults, pre and post–natal women, and clients with common
orthopaedic conditions.
Equipment safety and maintenance.
INCLUDED IN THE PRICE OF EACH MODULE ON THE COURSE
Instructor teaching fee
A detailed, full colour manual
Certificate of completion
Refreshments: fruit, beverages & chocolate!
WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
Travelling Costs & Parking
Accommodation Costs
Lunches. You are welcome to bring your own food. There are nearby cafes and shops.
OUR FOUNDATION COURSE PROVIDES YOU WITH ALL THE NECESSARY TRAINING AND SUPPORT TO BECOME A SUCCESSFUL PILATES REFORMER TEACHER
Purchasing a Reformer or any other Pilates Equipment?
Check out our guide on how to buy from Balanced Body and receive a referral discount.
A UNIQUE EXPLORATION INTO THE ANATOMY OF THE HUMAN BODY
Weekend Course £430
Build muscles in clay on a specially designed skeleton and imprint the body’s design deeply into your mind. Anatomy in Three Dimensions™ is a compelling, effective, engaging and fun way to learn the basics of musculoskeletal anatomy. By building the muscles with your own hands you will develop a deep understanding of the structure and function of the human body.
Learn the structure and function of bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves, as well as the origin, insertion and action of the muscles. This course pairs muscle function with specific exercises in order to reinforce and apply the anatomical information to movement. Muscles and joints from the knees through the shoulders are covered.
THIS IS THE BEST WAY TO LEARN ANATOMY
Anatomy in 3 Dimensions is the best way to understand the musculoskeletal system and integrate anatomical knowledge into your teaching. Learn how muscles move by experiencing each muscle group in action and relating these exercises to functional movement.
This course is designed to help anyone working with the body gain a deeper understanding of how the muscles and bones affect movement. The course has helped Pilates & other movement specialists, Chiropractors, Acupuncturists, Osteopaths and others to gain amazing practical insight into the body.
On this 2 day course we will cover the body from the knees through to the shoulders. You will also:
Review principles of musculoskeletal anatomy.
Understand the structure & function of bones, joints, muscles, tendons & ligaments.
Identify bony landmarks.
Understand joint structure and movements.
Learn the origin, insertion and action of the major muscles of movement.
Learn basic exercises for each muscle group.
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
Anatomy in 3 Dimensions is great for beginners as well as anatomy geeks. Pilates and yoga instructors, chiropractors, acupuncturists, massage therapists, personal trainers, athletic trainers, physical therapists, osteopaths, etc. can all benefit. Join us for the full, 16-hour course or for smaller, more specific workshops. Anyone who works with the body will gain a deeper understanding of how the muscles and bones affect movement. We can also bring an Anatomy in 3 Dimensions class to your facility.
Pilates is one of the top fitness trends in the world. There are always opportunities for good certified Pilates teachers. There are a number of Pilates schools, each offering their own particular slant on Pilates, as well as pathways to becoming a certified teacher. With many, entry to the training plan involves commitment to a substantial up-front sum of money. This is not the case with Balanced Body.
It takes time, money and personal commitment to become a certified Pilates Teacher, but it is worth the effort, both for job satisfaction and earnings potential.The Balanced Body pathway is thorough. A key strength is the modularity of the training programme. You only need to commit and pay for one step at a time. This helps de-risk the process and ease your finances. As a certified Balanced Body Pilates Teacher you will be part of our global family and enjoy unrivalled support and cooperation from your peers and mentors.
IS BEING A PILATES TEACHER FOR ME?
Teaching Pilates can be a tremendously fulfilling part-time job or career choice. You do not have to be the youngest, thinnest, fittest or strongest person to start training as a Pilates teacher. However, you do need a passion for Pilates, especially passing your knowledge to those you teach.There are a few questions you should ask yourself about becoming a Pilates teacher.
Am I a people person?
Communication is at the heart of teaching Pilates. Visual and verbal interaction takes place between client and teacher all the time. Close proximity is almost always part of teaching Pilates. In the final analysis - you don't necessarily have to be an outgoing person to teach Pilates, but do you have to be willing to fully engage with those you teach.
Do I like to teach?
Teaching is different from doing. Are you just passionate about doing Pilates or are you really interested in teaching. Teaching Pilates requires a lot of energy and attention focused on others
Am I attracted to the under-lying philosophies of Pilates?
Once you commit to Pilates teacher training, you need to understand the full breadth of the Pilates method. That includes the Pilates principles of Centering, Concentration, Control, Precision, Breath and Flow; as well as the finer techniques of training clients.
Am I interested in how the body works?
If you want to be a good Pilates teacher you need to know about the science behind movement, which includes knowledge of anatomy and physiology.
Am I self-motivated?
Most new Pilates teachers start part-time, gradually building classes, clients and reputation. You will have to work hard at self-promotion and client education to get your teaching career started.
Please feel free to contact us to discuss.
CAN I MAKE A LIVING TEACHING PILATES?
How much you can expect to make from teaching Pilates depends on a number factors, such as your experience & qualifications, where you live, your ability to attract and retain clients and when or how often you are available to teach. Your answers to the questions above also play a part. There are two broad avenues towards earning a living as a Pilates Teacher. Both require comprehensive training and in-depth knowledge, but the path you follow will largely depend on your preference or the opportunities that are available to you.
Working for someone else, e.g. Pilates Studio, Fitness Club
More predictable
Average remuneration
Possible emphasis on REPs
Working for yourself, e.g. from hired venues
Have to market yourself
Higher earnings potential
Less bureaucracy
Most new Pilates teachers start off working for themselves on a part-time basis, normally during the evenings and week-ends. This usually carries on until the student has become fully qualified and is in a position to make a more informed decision on the way ahead. Purely Pilates provide advice and guidance on how to get started.
