What is the best pilates certification?

Becoming a certified Pilates instructor can prepare you to walk clients through Pilates workouts in a way that personal trainer and health coach certifications will not effectively prepare you for. Pilates involves a very specific group of exercises performed in a specific manner, meaning that it differs from more traditional training.

Although the underlying exercise science is the same and Pilates isn’t an inherently special form of exercise, it can be challenging to train clients in its trademark style without proper education. Which is why earning an effective Pilates certification is important for setting yourself up to become a skilled Pilates instructor.

In this article, you will learn the following about Pilates and the best Pilates instructor certifications:

• What is Pilates
• Becoming pilates certified
• Top Pilates certifications
• Course content, study materials, required books
• Exams and pricing

When you are finished reading this article, you will be ready to choose the best pilates instructor certification for your personal and career goals.

Let’s dive in!

We highly recommend that you take our helpful quiz to find the best Pilates certification for you.

Pilates is a style of exercise developed in the early 20th century by Joseph Pilates in Germany. Following its inception in Germany, the practice of Pilates spread and became adopted internationally. Later in his life, Joseph Pilates brought his style of exercise to the United States. This played a key role in its popularization.

Pilates as a concept is similar to Yoga in that it is a specific manner of performing exercise. It is not inherently different from performing resistance or balance training, it is just a specific way to do so.

In practice, Pilates uses a mix of special Pilates equipment and bodyweight exercise performed on mats to help clients achieve their training goals. Although Pilates can lead to some health benefits when contrasted to no exercise at all, it does have limitations that limit its efficacy as a style of training. 

The most important of which is that resistance training exercises performed through Pilates are often not performed with resistance that can scale to a client’s changes in muscular strength over time. This contrasts from traditional resistance training, where clients can make micro level adjustments to free weights they use as they get stronger.

Although this is the case, it’s important to meet clients where they are at by performing whichever exercises they will adhere to and enjoy most. Pilates can still help clients get stronger, improve their mobility, and improve their balance.

So how exactly does one become a Pilates teacher?

Similar to personal trainers obtaining personal trainer certifications, you’ll need to attend a pilates teacher training, or enroll in a pilates certification program accredited by the Pilates Method Alliance (PMA).

Founded in 2001, the PMA is a non-profit professional organization dedicated to the advancement and promotion of Pilates.

Moreover, the National Pilates Certification Program (NPCP) is a special certification program within the PMA, developed to offer third-party pilates teacher certifications.

This program is accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies (NCCA) accredited.

Requirements can vary a bit between organizations, but it roughly takes about 10–50 hours of training to earn a basic mat Pilates certification.

For both mat pilates and apparatus (pilates equipment) training combined, you will need between 50 and 500 hours of coursework, observation, and practice teaching.

You have the option to choose from in-person and online pilates certifications.

Just like a personal trainer or a group exercise instructor, there are specifically pilates fitness instructor certification courses.

Also, note that there are many different pilates certifications.

But, let’s discuss the places that offer the best pilates certifications.

• Peak Pilates
• Bodyline Pilates Studio
• Balanced Body Pilates
• Stott Pilates
• Pop Pilates
• Firehaus Pilates/Polestar Pilates Education
• Pearl Pilates
• Blue Sparrow Pilates

These are all comprehensive pilates training programs, which fully prepare you to work as a Pilates instructor.

Having a nationally recognized Pilates certification will help you find employment more readily because employers view NCCA accredited certifications more favorably in most cases.

Upon completion of your pilates teacher training program, you will be ready to independently lead and teach Pilates to clients of multiple skill levels.

If you end up working for a Pilates facility, as most Pilates instructors do, most facilities will automatically cover you under their own liability insurance. It is uncommon for Pilates instructors to work fully independently, but if you do end up becoming a fully independent Pilates instructor, it can be helpful to purchase liability insurance.

It is also worth noting that in order to remain certified, you will have to earn continuing education credits (CECs) during each recertification cycle.

Pilates instruction is limited in scope, so it does not prepare you to work in other roles in the fitness industry outside of being a Pilates instructor. If you’re interested in expanding the range of jobs you are qualified for, it may help to consider earning a personal trainer certification or nutrition certification. There are not as many Pilates jobs available on the job market as there are personal training jobs, so it can be helpful to have a backup plan if you are unable to find employment in your area as a Pilates instructor.

The ISSA Pilates Instructor Certification stands out as the best pilates instructor certification in the fitness industry.

ISSA Pilates Instructor Course Breakdown

• Deep Dive into Anatomy & Physiology: The certification curriculum delves deep into human anatomy and physiology. As a student, you’ll explore how these elements interact with exercise, health, and wellness.
• Foundation in Exercise Principles: ISSA ensures that its students understand the foundational principles of exercise, fitness, and health. ISSA also teaches you how to apply these principles to Pilates program design.
• Adaptability for Different Fitness Levels: Every individual is unique, with different fitness levels. This certification prepares you to assist clients across the spectrum, from novices to more experienced exercisers.
• Promotion of Safety & Welfare: The course takes a safety-first approach. Although risk of mechanical injury is low during Pilates compared to other types of training, fall risk is higher.
• Mastery Over Pilates Movements: From the core Pilates exercises to more intricate movements, the course covers all the Pilates exercises necessary to program effectively.
• Tailored Training Sessions: Learn to customize Pilates sessions in line with your client’s specific requirements, goals, and movement restrictions.
• Dynamic Workout Modifications: The course equips you to adjust your client’s Pilates workout in real time, altering training intensity based on client performance and needs.

ISSA Course Materials & Support

• Online Course Textbook: ISSA’s primary course text is a one-stop solution for those aiming to become Mat Pilates Instructors. With continuous updates, you’re guaranteed access to the latest knowledge in the domain.
• Online Study Guide & Workbook: This digital guide offers a structured walkthrough of the course, enhancing comprehension of mat pilates theories.
• Regular Quizzes: From the second to the ninth week, each concludes with a mandatory quiz. These quizzes, which can be attempted multiple times, are invaluable for gauging your grasp of the material.
• Certification Examination: The final hurdle in your certification journey is the ISSA exam. Designed to ascertain your competency, you’ll need to secure at least an 80% to pass.
• Unwavering Educational Assistance: ISSA’s commitment doesn’t end with the exam. All students enjoy limitless educational support, with experienced professors ready to resolve any queries.
• Online Community Forum: A platform where you can share challenges and garner insights from ISSA’s Master Trainers and a global community of peers.
• Post-Certification Support: After your successful certification, ISSA continues to offer additional support, ensuring your journey in the fitness world is smooth.

ISSA Pilates Instructor Cost

The pricing for the ISSA Certified Pilates Instructor starts at $639.24, but ISSA often offers promotions at discounted prices.

Overall, the ISSA Pilates Instructor Certification is a holistic program, meticulously designed for those passionate about Pilates and helping others achieve their fitness goals.

Peak Pilates emphasizes Inspired by Joseph Pilates’s original principles more than other certifications. , Peak Pilates began in Boulder, Colorado over 25 years ago and has focused exclusively on Pilates education and application since its inception. This differs from organizations like ISSA who cover a wide range of types of exercise instruction and health coaching.

There are three distinct types of certifications offered by the Peak Pilates instructor training program:

• Comprehensive Certifications
• Mat Certifications and Mat Work
• Bridge Certifications

Moreover, there are three levels of Comprehensive Certifications.

Level 1 includes four modules.

In this comprehensive classical Pilates certification, you will learn basic human anatomy and kinesiology and complete 20 hours of Pilates training.

Coursework also recommends current CPR/AED and First Aid certifications.

In Module 1, you will learn the foundation of pilates and Pilates principles.

You cover power pilates as well as review the Peak Pilates 5-Part Formula.

This lesson primarily emphasizes mat work and core mat.

Module 2 introduces you to training modalities, pilates equipment, and equipment training, as well as coaching cues and other coaching techniques.

Module 3 focuses on more advanced Pilates exercises, which includes apparatus based Pilates, such as exercises with a chairs, reformers, and ladder barrels.

Coverage focuses on functional anatomy as well as safe and effective movement patterns.

Also, you will learn how to effectively teach a pilates session to students of different levels.

Lastly, Module 4 covers the nuances of certification and conducting assessments. This section also brings elements of earlier modules together.

Teaching Pilates is a skill, and you will need to accrue teaching hours in order to earn the Pilates Level 1 Certification. This will require you to teach for a total of 120 hours.

Let’s move to Level 2.

The prerequisites for the Level 2 Peak Pilates Certification are as follows:

• Successful completion of Level I
• 100 additional logged hours
• Current, valid CPR/AED and First Aid certifications

There are two modules, which may also be taken at your own pace.

Module 1 includes pilates mat work, reformer pilates, and Cadillac.

More intermediate-level exercises, transitions, and ways to monitor for proper body alignment are highlighted here.

Module 2 of this instructor training introduces intermediate-level chair and barrel lessons.

Students will learn to teach pilates classes, mat classes, and assessments.

You also learn progressions and have the opportunity to self-practice and participate in student teaching.

When ready, you can sit for a Pilates certification exam in Module 3, which once completed awards you with the Peak Pilates Level II Certification.

Level 3 consists of three modules.

Your only prerequisites and certification requirements include successful completion of Levels I and II Peak Pilates instructor training certifications and valid CPR/AED and First Aid certifications.

Module 1 covers advanced level mat, reformer, and Cadillac.

You will learn advanced-level exercises and transitions, as well as techniques.

Module 2 covers advanced-level pilates equipment and equipment training, such as using the reformer machine.

Additionally, students in this pilates certification course will review case studies that mirror those of a classical Pilates program.

Lastly, Module 3 is a one-day comprehensive final certification exam, which includes both written and practical assessments.

The Peak Pilates Full Comprehensive Certification is then awarded to pilates instructors who pass all the Level III certification requirements and log 60 observation hours.

Typically, each module of this program will take about a weekend to complete.

As long as a total of 400 hours and 9 modules have been logged and completed across all Pilates certification levels and you complete all level III assessments, you will become a Level III Pilates instructor.

This pilates teacher training program costs $5,619 on average..

However, each module is paid for separately. And, the cost of each module may vary by location because education modules are offered in person.

However, each module is paid for separately.

Here it is below:

• Level 1 Modules 1, 2, and 3 cost $685.00 each
• Level 1 Module 4 costs $599.00
• Level 1 overall total comes to $2654.00
• Level 2 Modules 1 and 2 are also $685.00 each, which is $1370.00 in total
• Level 3 Modules 1 and 2 cost $685.00 each
• Level 3 Module 3 costs $225.00, leaving a total of $1595.00 for Level 3

Bodyline Pilates offers a comprehensive Pilates training program that has been ongoing for over 25 years. It emphasizes Power Pilates more than most other Pilates certifications.

Courses offered at Bodyline Pilates Studio include Core Pilates Mat 1, Core Pilates Mat 2, Dual Mat, and Comprehensive Pilates Certifications.

In the Core Mat 1 program, you will learn the fundamentals of the power pilates method.

It takes one weekend to learn beginner-level mat exercises and familiarize yourself with the power pilates class structure and teaching skills.

The Core Mat 2 program emphasizes 12 intermediate-level exercises and sequencing.

You will have the opportunity to hone your teaching skills, too.

What if you want to do both?

With the Dual Mat program, you get the Core Mat 1 and Core Mat 2 courses at a discounted price of $200.00.

Basically, you will cover the basics of pilates in a way that includes both beginner as well as intermediate level pilates movements.

This program focuses on developing Pilates teaching skills as it pertains to the Power Pilates method.

And lastly, the most extensive program, which covers beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels of Pilates teaching – is the Comprehensive Pilates Certification.

You will learn how to use advanced-level Pilates apparatuses, how to work with clients with special health conditions and limitations, and how to effectively implement exercise modifications when necessary.

The cost of Bodyline Pilates certifications can be somewhat expensive, with some modules costing $600, but this does translate to a large amount of real-time education and Pilates instruction practice.

Balanced Body Pilates offers comprehensive pilates courses and has been dedicated to teacher training pilates instructors in over 50 countries.

You should know that this pilates teacher training offers four distinct pilates comprehensive certifications:

• Pilates Mat Certifications
• Reformer Pilates Certifications
• Reformer Cadillac Pilates Certifications

First, let’s discuss the mat pilates certification.

In this certification pilates, instructors learn the basics and principles of mat work.

Prerequisites for this pilates mat instructor course include the following:

• A minimum of 10 mat pilates classes
• Has worked in a similar field, such as group fitness, personal training, yoga instructor, pilates coach, mat specialist
• Experience with group classes strongly preferred
• Highly recommended to complete an anatomy course

Overall, Mats 1-3all last 16 hours.

You will be required to complete 20 personal mat sessions, 15 hours of observation, and 35 practice student teaching hours.

If you add this all together, the total length of the Balanced Body Pilates certification is 134 hours.

And, every two years, you are required to fulfill your continuing education credits.

Balanced Body also offers barre pilates certifications?

The barre Pilates certification is called Balanced Body Barre.

In just 8 hours, you will learn the fundamentals of barre. The time commitment for this is much lower than is typical for Pilates certifications as many Pilates certification modules and courses last a minimum of 16 hours. 

However, you can only enroll in this program if you have prior experience teaching group classes.

Many of the same movements found in pilates classes are heavily emphasized in barre classes. This results in the focus primarily being on muscles of the lower body and core stability.

Also, Balanced Body Barre offers a more comprehensive barre pilates certification, which requires a 16 hour time commitment.

We recommend this comprehensive certification program because furthering your education and familiarity with exercise science will make you a more skilled practitioner, meaning you will be better able to help your clients in attaining their fitness goals.

The focus is on functional fitness training and provides instructors with the essentials and core values they will need to teach 30 – 60 minute classes. 

You will learn how to teach the music, cue clients, and correct clients to ensure professionalism as an instructor.

Balanced Body Barre offers barre pilates certifications midwest as well as online.

Pilates certifications online have become increasingly popular and can definitely be much more convenient.

In the 16-hour comprehensive barre pilates certification, you will learn the following:

• The fundamentals of barre
• Barre exercises
• Structure of classes
• Movement principles and the Balanced Body Programming System.
• Cueing to music
• Teaching for proper alignment
• Having and keeping the passion to teach for exciting, successful classes

To become a certified Balanced Body Barre Instructor, you must complete either the coursework in either the fundamentals program or comprehensive program, practice teaching for at least 6 months, and pass your certification exam.

On a final note, some organizations allow you to apply for scholarships to help finance your education. Although this is generally rare in the fitness industry, some scholarship programs exist for both Pilates certifications and yoga certifications.

Already certified in pilates but not in yoga?

Want to earn continuing education credits to help with the recertification of any of the NCCA accredited fitness certifications that you hold?

We highly recommend the ISSA Yoga Instructor certification.

Alternatively, we recommend considering the ISSA Nutritionist certification, which can help you become a nutrition coach.

Stott Pilates is a popular intensive Pilates certification course teaching pilates instruction to aspiring instructors. It is intended for individuals who are already working in the fitness industry and who already have a moderate amount of experience in the field.

This comprehensive program includes the following two modules:

• Comprehensive Mat Work and Reformer Pilates
• Comprehensive Cadillac, Chairs, and Ladder Barrels

The Comprehensive Mat Work and Reformer Pilates program generally takes 3 to 4 months to complete.

This is also followed by a certified Pilates apprenticeship.

Lastly, this program costs $2,890.00 in total, when you combine the prices of both modules. Although, pricing may vary by location. 

On the other hand, the Comprehensive Cadillac, Chairs, and Ladder Barrels program takes around 2 months to complete, and will also require a Pilates apprenticeship.

Prerequisites for this program include experience in the field, teaching group fitness, and/or dance classes.

You must also have completed 30 logged hours of Pilates classes.

The total cost of the Comprehensive Cadillac, Chairs and Ladder Barrels program is $1,520.00.

Please keep in mind that coursework and required books must be purchased separately, as they are not included in the total price for each program.

Stott Pilates certified instructors must complete both modules to become pilates instructor certified.

Pop Pilates is a unique style of Pilates that differs from all other types. It involves performing Pilates in a choreographed fashion to pop songs. This makes it more effective at supporting fat loss and improving cardiovascular health when compared to more traditional Pilates. However, this also makes it less effective at increasing muscle strength than traditional Pilates training.

Its focus is primarily on high-energy dynamic movements that feel fun for clients to perform.

To be considered for this program, you must fulfill its prerequisites.

First, you will need to be at least 18 years of age.

For pilates certifications online, you will have 12 weeks to complete your training and submit your evaluation video, which must be submitted in English.

If your evaluation video is approved by an instructor, you will be eligible for earning your Pop Pilates certification.

Finally, upon certification, a Pop Pilates Membership of $12.99 USD per month or $120 USD per year is required to maintain your stats as a Pop Pilates instructor.

If you would like a refund after enrolling in the certification program, you can request one up to 48 hours after your initial purchase is made.

In the Pop Pilates instructor training course, you will learn the following:

• Out-of-this-world methodology and choreography
• Body awareness
• S.H.I.N.E. and P.O.P. cueing techniques
• Proper alignment and form

Note this comprehensive program does provide continuing education credits for the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM), and the American Council on Exercise (ACE) personal trainer credentials.

And if you truly want to make money as a personal trainer, then earning a related credential is the key.

If you are wondering “do you have to be certified to be a personal trainer?“, you technically do not have to be. This is because a certification is not a license. Licenses are credentials mandated by law that are necessary in order to practice in a given field. Certifications are not. Anyone can be a personal trainer. 

If you aren’t yet a certified personal trainer and consider becoming one, then we highly recommend reading through the following study materials to set you up for a good start:

• NASM study guide
• NASM practice test
• ACE study guide
• ACE practice test

Want to compare certifications?

That’s made easy with the NASM vs. ACE article.

Before I move forward, I should mention to you that the International Sports Sciences Association (ISSA) offers another solid personal training certification program.

You can also compare NASM vs. ISSA just to see what’s what.

But regarding Pop Pilates certification, the total cost of the program is $299. This is less than the average cost of Pilate certification programs, which is partly because this training is much less in-depth than more traditional Pilates education.

The course is also self-paced and may be done from anywhere. Although this is a norm for other fitness certifications, like most personal trainer certifications, it is not very common for Pilates instructor certifications. 

Once you register for your training, you will receive 14 Comprehensive Training Videos.

There are 40 Technical Breakdown Videos, other required books, live class options, and FAQs with a Master Trainer.

You will learn Pop Pilates choreography, choice of music, and class notes.

Becoming a Pop Pilates instructor is simple, and all you will need to do is register for the pilates certification online or live in person.

Then, you will complete your training and submit your final evaluation video.

The minute you are Pop Pilates instructor certified, you will have a monthly membership, with access to a myriad of resources and support throughout your career.

Polestar Pilates Education offers a comprehensive Pilates training program.

Polestar Pilates Education is a well-known fitness and rehabilitation certification program existing for over 25 years and is led by a Doctor of Physical Therapy.

Polestar is a nationally recognized Pilates certification, teaching pilates in 40 countries, and is available in 12 languages.

Additionally, the Polestar Pilates education coursework mainly focuses on movement mechanics, mobility, biomechanical assessments, and effective coaching strategies.

Polestar-certified instructors are prepared to support clients with mobility limitations and pre-existing injuries with maintaining their fitness and being active.

Polestar offers a Comprehensive Pilates for Studio and Rehabilitation program.

This would be ideal for pilates instructors who want to work with clients who are managing existing injuries or have mobility limitations.

This differs from a strength and conditioning coach. A strength and conditioning coach works primarily with athletes. Most strength and conditioning coaches are taught the exercise science and biomechanics covered in Pilates education more comprehensively because of the inherent complexity that exists when working with highly trained athletes.

Interested in becoming a strength and conditioning coach and aren’t yet certified as one?

We’ve created a helpful CSCS study guide and CSCS practice test that are both able to increase your odds of passing the CSCS exam and becoming a certified strength and conditioning specialist.

But regarding the Polestar Pilates program, it will teach you the Polestar Principles of Movement, assessment techniques, sequencing, and cueing.

You may take this certification course online, or in a studio near you.

Following completion of the Polestar Comprehensive program, you will be eligible to register for and take the PMA Certification Exam.

This final exam consists of an online prerequisite course in the Principles of Fitness and Rehabilitation followed by six, two-day-course modules.

Pricing for this comprehensive program is listed below:

• Principles of Movement; online course: $249.00
• Early Bird Tuition (90 days prior to starting the 1st module): $4,800.00
• Standard Tuition: $5,600.00
• Final Exam Fee: $600.00

However, specific cost can vary by location. For example, courses taken in New York come with an additional $1,100 fee. Overall, this program is expensive, but it provides great quality.

The second pilates certification program offered with Polestar is The Polestar Transition Course, also known as The Transition (Bridging) Intensive course.

This course is designed for existing Pilates instructors who want to further their skill set and education so that they can more effectively evaluate client movement mechanics in real time.

You will need to successfully complete the prerequisite course in the Principles of Fitness and Rehabilitation, and a six-session course as well.

The cost of the Bridge Intensive is as follows:

• Principles of Movement; online course: $249.00
• Tuition: $3,800.00
• Final Exam Fee: $600.00

Pearl Pilates is one of the leading pilates certifications Portland Oregon has to offer.

The pilates teacher training is run by Jeanni Chrisman, an authorized teacher trainer for the Pearl Pilates Studio Certification course created by Momentum Studios.

She conducts several courses per year at Pearl Pilates Studio, which are only offered in June.

Momentum is a nationally recognized Pilates certification facility with hundreds of trainees in 30 states and foreign countries including Canada, Australia, England, and Germany.

It is also recognized by the Pilates Method Alliance as a Comprehensive Pilates Education Facility.

In this course at Peral Pilates Studio, you will learn how to design, teach, cue, and modify beginner, intermediate, and advanced level pilates classes.

You will also integrate the use of modalities and pilates equipment in order to meet your client’s specific needs.

Additionally, students in this comprehensive program learn the following:

• Definition of Pilates
• The 6 Principles of Joseph Pilates
• The 34 Fundamentals of Pilates Exercises
• Mat work and apparatus pilates
• Assessment
• Program design
• Proper exercise sequencing, modifications, and variations
• Group class structure
• Special populations
• Making corrections and faulty movements

Certifications offered are Mat Pilates, Reformer Pilates, and Full Studio Pilates.

You can learn about each specific program, but let’s note some basic things to keep in mind.

The Mat Pilates certification course is divided into two training intensives.

There is a total of 5 full day-courses, in which you will learn all about mat work and mat exercises.

You will cover beginner, intermediate, and advanced level exercises, modifications, and variations.

Props and equipment are reviewed as well, as they may fit specific clients’ needs.

This course may count toward continuing education course credits even in other disciplines.

For the Mat Pilates certification, there are only a few prerequisites.

First, you will need to demonstrate a basic understanding of anatomy and some working knowledge of mat work.

Kindly note that there are many resources and books for self-study.

Course materials for the Mat Pilates certification include a training manual, and the following other resources:

• A Pilates Primer: The Millennium Edition (Return to Life & Your Health)
• Anatomy of Movement (Blandine Calais-Germain)
• Recommended: Pilates Mat (not Yoga mat); fitball, foam roller, Theraband, magic circle

Keep in mind that courses do offer materials at a trainee discount.

The total length of this program is 30 hours spread out over.

5 days which last ,6 hours each.

To become a certified Pilates instructor through Pearl Pilates, an additional 90 hours of apprenticeship are required.

The entire cost of the Mat Pilates certification program is $1,200.00.

Study materials are not included.

The final exam fee is $250.00 and is scheduled individually by students whenever they feel ready to take it.

Before taking your exam, you must successfully complete all apprenticeship hours.

For recertification purposes, you are required to obtain 10 continuing education hours every two years.

The recertification fee is $25.00.

Next, you have the Mat Work and Reformer Certification program, which consists of two, full three-day intensive courses, or 36 hours.

You cover movement across all levels and learn the classical work of Joseph Pilates.

This program is best for pilates instructors looking to teach a variety of clients from gym and studio settings to rehabilitative and therapeutic ones alike.

Prerequisites for this program are proficiency in Pilates and anatomy, and a minimum of 25 classes or private pilates classes by a certified Pilates instructor.

Required books and course materials include the following:

• A Pilates Primer: The Millennium Edition (Return to Life & Your Health)
• Anatomy of Movement (Blandine Calais-Germain)
• Anatomy of Movement: Exercises (Blandine Calais-Germain)
• A Busy Person’s Guide to Easier Movement (Frank Wildman)

Note that this program also provides continuing education credits.

Apprenticeship requirements must be fulfilled as well.

The total cost of the Mat Work and Reformer Certification program is $2,400.00.

The cost of the certification exam is $250.00.

You will have two years to fulfill your 16 hours of continuing education credits in order to maintain your certification.

Lastly, you have the opportunity to obtain the Pilates Full Studio Certification.

This is a 4 three-day intensive for a total of 12 days and 72 hours of teacher training.

All levels are covered on pilates equipment, or apparatus, as well as the Fundamentals of pilates and mat work.

The first two intensives are dedicated to the Fundamentals of pilates, Mat work, and Reformer.

The third Intensive emphasizes Cadillac pilates.

And the last Intensive covers Ladder Barrels and Chair.

You will learn classical pilates education as well.

The prerequisites for this program are proficiency in Level III Pilates, anatomy, and at least 25 classes or private classes by a certified Pilates instructor.

Below are the course materials and required books you will need:

• A Pilates Primer: The Millennium Edition (Return to Life & Your Health)
• Anatomy of Movement (Blandine Calais-Germain)
• Anatomy of Movement: Exercises (Blandine Calais-Germain)
• A Busy Person’s Guide to Easier Movement (Frank Wildman)

Apprenticeship requirements consist of 450 hours plus your 72 hours.

The cost for the Pilates Full Studio Certification is broken down here.

• $2,400.00 for Matwork Reformer (Intensives 1 and 2)
• $750.00 for Cadillac (Intensive 3)
• $750.00 for Ladder Barrels and Chair (Intensive 4)

The certification exam fee is $250.00.

Blue Sparrow Pilates is located in San Francisco, California.

The Blue Sparrow Pilates teacher training is designed to accommodate flexible scheduling and may be taken and completed at your own pace. This benefit is rare for Pilates instructor certification courses as most are not self paced. 

You have many options for teacher training as well.

They offer a variety of intensives such as intensive mat work, intensive reformer, intensive Cadillac, intensive stability chair, and intensive barrel.

Looking for a more advanced level of Pilates education?

If you have already completed those 5 intensive courses described above, then you must be ready to advance your Pilates career.

This program covers exactly the same content as the intensives, but at a much more advanced level.

Did you know Blue Sparrow Pilates also provides continuing education courses?

Examples of such courses include Fascial Movement Training, Total Barre, and numerous CEC workshops.

Exam fees for both Levels I and II certification exams are $300.00.

The first step in pursuing a career as a Pilates instructor is to identify which Pilates certification is most appropriate for you to pursue. After determining which certification best meets your needs, focus on taking the action necessary to obtain that certification.

Many Pilates certifications require a large time commitment, so it can be helpful to begin pursuing the certification as soon as you are ready to do so as there will be a natural lag time between when you start pursuing the certification and when you are eligible to become certified and begin working in the capacity of a certified Pilates instructor.

In order to become a certified pilates teacher, you will need to attend pilates teacher training accredited by the Pilates Method Alliance.

Pilates certifications can differ, even within an organization. There are certifications in Mat Pilates, Reformer Pilates, Comprehensive Mat Work & Reformer Pilates, Classical Pilates, Contemporary Pilates, Power Pilates, and even more.

The comprehensive pilates certification programs listed and described in full detail above are all among the best places to get pilates certifications.

Pricing for each certification program, prerequisites, coursework, required books, and certification requirements are all covered as well.

But overall, the best pilates certification is the one that best suits your personal and professional needs and goals.

References

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3. ‌Roh SY. An exploration of implications for the development of Pilates instructor system through identification of instructors’ difficulties. Journal of Exercise Rehabilitation. 2016;12(4):355-362. doi: https://doi.org/10.12965/jer.1632664.332
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6. Archer, S., 2003. The pilates and yoga training debate: what type of training creates competent teachers?(Discussion). IDEA Health & Fitness Source, 21(7), pp.31-39.
7. ‌McNeill W. Decision making in Pilates. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies. 2011;15(1):103-107. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbmt.2010.10.003
8. ‌Wells C, Kolt GS, Bialocerkowski A. Defining Pilates exercise: A systematic review. Complementary Therapies in Medicine. 2012;20(4):253-262. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2012.02.005
9. McNeill W, Blandford L. Pilates: Applying progression and goal achievement. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies. 2013;17(3):371-375. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbmt.2013.05.004
10. Lewitt MS, McPherson L, Stevenson M. Development of a Pilates Teaching Framework from an international survey of teacher practice. Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies. 2019;23(4):943-949. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jbmt.2019.02.005