Thinking About Becoming a Pilates Teacher? Here’s What to Consider Before You Enrol
Photography @ashleighlaurapilates
From your personal goals to your preferred teaching style, here’s how to choose the right Pilates training course for you.
So, you’ve fallen in love with Pilates and you’re thinking about turning that passion into a career. Amazing! Becoming a Pilates instructor can be deeply rewarding—offering flexibility, creativity, and the chance to make a real difference in people’s lives. But before you dive into a teacher training course, there are a few important questions to ask yourself. Not all training programs are created equal, and finding the right fit for you can shape your entire teaching journey.
Here’s what to think through before you enrol.
1. What Style of Pilates Do You Want to Teach?
Pilates comes in many forms—from classical to contemporary, from fast-paced athletic reformer workouts to slow, rehabilitative matwork. Some studios teach high-energy, music-driven classes, while others stay close to Joseph Pilates’ original method.
Spend time in different studios, attend a variety of classes, and notice what resonates with you. Ask yourself: What kind of teacher do I want to be? Do I want to work in a boutique fitness space, a clinical setting, or something in between? Choosing a course that reflects the style of teaching you’re drawn to is essential. You might also like to go and try different studios in your area until you find the style that resonates with you the most.
Tip: If you love a studio’s teaching style, check whether they offer in-house training or can recommend programs aligned with their approach.
2. Do You Want to Teach Mat, Reformer, or All Equipment?
Most teacher training courses are offered in three streams:
Matwork: Usually the starting point for many instructors. It’s a more affordable entry into teaching and builds a strong foundation.
Reformer: With the boom in reformer studios, reformer training is highly popular and often more in demand for jobs.
Comprehensive (All Equipment): Includes Cadillac, Wunda Chair, Ladder Barrel, and more. This path offers broader career opportunities, especially in clinical or rehabilitation settings.
If you’re unsure, start with mat or reformer and build from there. Many training providers allow you to stack qualifications over time.
Photography @seasewell
3. How Much Time Can You Commit?
Becoming a Pilates teacher is not a weekend course—it’s a serious investment of time. Most certificate or diploma courses range from 150 to over 300+ hours, which includes:
Practical in-studio workshops
Online theory modules
Self-directed practice
Observational hours
Teaching and assessment
On average, expect to commit 5–10 hours per week over several months to stay on top of the material and complete your hours at a minimum. A course with over 500 hours might seem overwhelming at first, but remember—just like with any program, the more time you invest, the deeper your understanding and the more comprehensive your learning will be.
If you’re working full-time or have family commitments, look for flexible or self-paced course options that allow you to learn at your own pace.
4. What’s Your Budget?
Pilates teacher training is an investment—and costs vary widely depending on the course scope and provider.
Here’s a rough guide:
Matwork only: $1,500–$3,000
Reformer or Mat & Reformer Combo: $2,500–$5,000
Diploma/Comprehensive Equipment Training: $6,000–$10,000+
While it’s tempting to go with the cheapest option, consider what’s included. Does the course offer mentorship? Is the provider nationally or internationally accredited? Are there flexible payment plans? Will the certification be recognised by the studios where you want to teach?
5. What Are Your Teaching Goals?
Are you doing this because you want a career change? A side hustle? Or are you just passionate about Pilates and want to deepen your understanding?
Some students take teacher training simply to learn more about their own practice. Others want to build a long-term teaching career. Knowing your “why” will help you choose a course that supports your ambitions—whether it’s building a full client base or teaching one or two classes a week at your local studio.
Also ask yourself: Do I want to teach groups, privates, in a studio, online, or even open my own space one day? The clearer your vision, the easier it will be to align with the right training.
6. What Kind of Support and Community Will You Have?
Pilates training is intense—and having the right support network can make all the difference. Look for a training provider that offers mentorship, Q&A sessions, online support groups, and continuing education opportunities.
Being part of a strong learning community can help you stay motivated, deepen your learning, and build valuable industry connections that last well beyond your course.
Photography @leanbeanfitnessau
Final Thoughts
Becoming a Pilates teacher is about more than learning the moves—it’s about discovering your voice, your style, and your purpose in movement. The right course will challenge and inspire you, giving you the tools to become not just a great instructor, but a confident leader in the studio.
Take the time to research, reflect, and trust your instincts. Your teaching journey starts with a single choice—and it’s worth making it count.
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