There’s nothing like sweating away your worries at the gym, and one fun way to do so is in a Pilates class. Pilates works your glutes, abs, and just about every other muscle in your body to get you toned and in shape.
If you like the idea of not just taking a pilates class, but becoming a pilates instructor, however, you’ll need to buckle down and study. Most instructors have to get a license in order to get on their way to a new career.
This guide walks you through how to become a Pilates instructor from zero, starting with licenses and ending with landing you a job.
Step One: Enroll in Pilates Classes
There’s no point trying to become a teacher if you don’t know the basics of Pilates yourself! If you’re interested in becoming an instructor, the first step is to get some experience with Pilates by taking a couple of classes yourself.
You can try enrolling in group classes, heading to fitness groups at the gym, or enrolling in online classes. There are also free YouTube videos that you can watch that will teach you the basics of Pilates.
When you take these classes, don’t just pay attention to the exercises and movements you’re doing—also pay attention to what the instructors are doing. Each instructor has his or her own method of teaching, and by watching these teachers, you can get a feel for what techniques and style you’d like to use when you start teaching your own classes.
Finally, you can also read up on Pilates online. This can give you some further insight into what the technique is behind these classes and how they work.
Step Two: Take a Pilates Instructor Course
Once you think you’ve got a feel for what Pilates is like, it’s time to enroll in an instructor training course. You can usually take these programs online, but there are also often in-person classes that you can take.
These courses may have a range of costs, but the cost typically includes all the equipment you’ll need in order to become an instructor.
Another thing to note about taking a Pilates Instructor course is the topics you’ll typically cover. Usually, you’ll go over the following units in your course:
- The origins of Pilates
- The principles of Pilates
- How to apply Pilates
- Basic Pilates exercises
- Using Pilates techniques for injuries and disorders
- Equipment and best practices
With those units out of the way, you’ll be ready to wrap up your course and move onto the next step—certification.
Step Three: Get Your Instructor Certification
Once you’ve completed your Pilates Instructor course, your work isn’t over. You’ll still need to take and pass an exam so that you can get your instructor certification.
Remember, the exam has to be nationally recognized. Otherwise, even if you pass, the certification won’t be valid. The National Pilates Certification Program is often the go-to certification for instructors.
Step Four: Put Your Certification to Work
After you’ve passed your exam, it’s time to start working! You can often find employment as a Pilates instructor at the following locations:
- Health clubs
- Community centers, such as a YMCA
- Fitness centers
- Local gyms
- Dance studios
- Pilates studios
You can also rent out your own space to teach Pilates classes. Just keep in mind that this last option is much more costly as you’ll have to pay rent and utilities as well as pay for all the equipment needed for your classes.
Step Five: Continue Your Pilates Education
Just because you’ve got your own Pilates classes going and you’ve completed your class doesn’t mean that the work is done. You’ll still need to pursue continuing education to ensure that you’re still able to offer value to your students.
You may also need to get re-certified every few years. This is what allows you to maintain your credentials and keep up with your classes. Otherwise, you’ll lose your certification and will no longer be licensed to teach.
Launch a Career as a Pilates Instructor
When it comes to learning how to become a Pilates instructor, the main thing to do is to enroll in and pass a Pilates instructor course. From there, you’ll need to pass an exam and then get re-certified every few years to maintain your credentials.
Now that you know the steps needed to become a Pilates instructor, you’re ready to launch a new career. Bust out the yoga mat and get ready to boogie your way into a new industry!