Which Pilates Path Is Right for You?
Over the past two decades in the Pilates industry—and with over 30 years in finance and business development—I’ve mentored hundreds of passionate teachers across the globe. Many enter the profession with wide eyes and open hearts, drawn to Pilates for its healing potential, its continuous flow, and its freedom. But somewhere along the way, a question often arises:
"What now?"
Becoming a Pilates teacher shouldn’t be your final destination— getting your certification should be the start of a path that evolves with you. The more you understand the different directions available, the more confidently you can shape a career that fits. There are multiple paths you can take, each with unique benefits, challenges, and seasons. This article is your map—a comprehensive guide to navigating those paths, understanding the nuances of each, and deciding what suits you best, not just today, but in the long run.
The Five Core Career Paths in Pilates
After decades of training, mentoring, and consulting, I’ve identified five common career trajectories. They’re not mutually exclusive, and many teachers blend elements from more than one. Think of these as archetypes to help you reflect on where you are—and where you might like to go.
1. The Hobbyist
“I teach because I love it—not because I need to.”
This path is about service, passion, and sharing the method—not scaling a business or hitting income goals. Hobbyist teachers weave Pilates into their life rather than build their life around it. They may teach a few sessions a week around family, retirement, or another career, and they do it because they believe in the work.
Profile:
— Typically teaches 1–3 classes per week, often in community spaces or gyms
— Keeps another source of income (employment, pension, or personal investments)
— Motivated by joy, healing, and connection—not financial pressure
— Often becomes a trusted and beloved presence in their local community
Real Life:
Kathryn, one of my mentees, began teaching after retiring from a successful career. She didn’t set out to start a business—she simply wanted to offer Pilates to seniors in her local gym because she knew how profoundly it had benefited her own health. Now in her 70s, she brings experience, compassion, and wisdom to her sessions—and the ripple effect on her community is immeasurable.
Several of my students have even begun their teaching journeys in their 70s. They chose to become instructors not because they needed a new job, but because they felt a deep pull to share what Pilates had given them. These men and women are living proof that passion has no expiration date—and that purpose can be reignited at any age.
The Research Says:
Work that’s aligned with intrinsic values like service, autonomy, and purpose tends to produce higher levels of well-being and satisfaction—even when financial compensation is modest (Deci & Ryan, 2000).
Common Challenges:
— Limited income or career progression by choice
— May feel outside the mainstream Pilates “career ladder”
— Can experience isolation without a professional network or continuing education
The Opportunity:
Hobbyist teachers are often the quiet heart of the profession. They bring sincerity, care, and a deep respect for the method into every class. For those who want to stay physically active, mentally engaged, and socially connected, this path can be a beautiful chapter of service and self-expression—on their own terms.
2. The Studio Employee
“I want consistency and connection—without the business stress.”
For many instructors, especially in the early years, working as part of a studio team offers the perfect balance: a structured schedule, regular clients, and a supportive environment to grow your teaching skills—without the extra pressure of marketing or managing a business.
Profile:
— Teaches consistent classes at one or more established studios
— Focuses primarily on session delivery and client experience
— Minimal involvement in admin, marketing, or business development
— May receive employment perks like holiday pay, sick leave, insurance, or pension contributions (varies by region)
— Payroll and tax contributions are typically handled by the employer, offering simplicity and financial clarity
Real Life:
This path is where many instructors find their footing. It offers structure, camaraderie, and a front-row seat to how a studio is run. For new teachers, it’s a chance to learn from more experienced colleagues, receive regular feedback, and deepen your craft in a consistent setting.
One of my clients, Anna, worked at several bustling studios in London and loved the energy of it. But after a few years, she began to feel boxed in by her schedule and wanted something that felt more like hers. With a background in project management and social media, she had a solid foundation for business ownership. With support and guidance, Anna launched her first studio—and within just six months, was already planning her second. Today, she runs two thriving studios in London, blending her teaching passion with her leadership skills.
What the research shows:
In structured employment, you gain predictability and reduce cognitive load. But if autonomy and growth aren’t available, long-term engagement may decline (Deci & Ryan, 2000).
Common Challenges:
— Limited control over class times, studio culture, or pricing
— Capped income potential—especially if paid per class without benefits
— Little say in business decisions or client experience beyond the class itself
The Opportunity:
If you value consistency, collaboration, and the art of teaching itself, this can be a deeply rewarding long-term path. And if you find yourself craving more freedom, like Anna did, there’s always room to evolve—whether that’s through creating workshops, mentoring, or eventually launching something of your own. This path doesn’t have to be a stepping stone. For many, it’s the platform from which real growth begins.
3. The Independent Instructor
“I want to build my business on my own terms.”
This path attracts the freedom-seekers—the teachers who crave autonomy, creativity, and full ownership of their work. As an independent instructor, you’re not just teaching sessions. You’re running the whole show.
Profile:
— Delivers sessions in flexible formats—rented studios, online platforms, or home-based spaces
— Sets their own prices, schedule, branding, and scope of practice
— Oversees all aspects of the business: client care, communication, marketing, bookings, admin, and financial management
Real Life:
This was the path I chose early in my Pilates career. The freedom was electrifying—I could shape my schedule, choose my clients, and evolve my offerings without anyone’s permission. But that freedom came with a price. I was doing everything: teaching, invoicing, writing newsletters, responding to messages at all hours. I’ve hit burnout three separate times. Each time, it was a reminder that autonomy without systems becomes exhaustion.
And I’m not alone. Research confirms this tradeoff. According to Benz & Frey (2008), self-employed professionals often report a greater sense of purpose and control—but also higher levels of stress and isolation, especially when support systems aren’t in place.
Common Challenges:
— Every decision—from pricing to promotions—is yours to make
— No sick pay, no built-in team, and often no boundary between “work” and “life”
— Requires high levels of organization, emotional resilience, and self-leadership
The Opportunity:
When done intentionally, this path offers unmatched flexibility and alignment. You can create niche offerings, build a personal brand, work internationally, or scale into memberships or digital products. But success here depends on more than teaching skills—it takes clarity, strategy, and the willingness to build a business as well as a practice.
4. The Studio Owner
“I want to create something bigger than myself.”
This is where teaching meets entrepreneurship. As a studio owner, you're no longer just managing clients—you're managing a brand, a team, and a space. It’s one of the most rewarding, and misunderstood, paths in the Pilates profession.
Profile:
— Owns or leases a dedicated physical space
— Employs or contracts other instructors and admin staff
— Oversees operations, scheduling, team dynamics, and business strategy
Real Life:
Studio ownership isn’t simply a larger version of teaching—it’s a shift into leadership. You move from being the product to being the visionary behind the business. That means making decisions about marketing, pricing, hiring, systems, and client retention—often all in the same day.
Top Insight:
If you have a background in business or finance, you’ll have a valuable head start. If not, don’t worry—but do seek mentorship early. Owning a studio requires clear planning, legal awareness, and a willingness to build both structure and support around your vision. Without that, the passion that got you here can quickly be consumed by burnout.
Common Challenges:
— High overheads and inconsistent cash flow
— Staff management and turnover
— Balancing leadership with your own teaching time
— Maintaining your personal practice and well-being
The Opportunity:
Done well, this path offers tremendous creative freedom, greater income potential, and the chance to build a legacy in your community. But it’s not for everyone—and it doesn’t have to be the end goal. Studio ownership is a calling, not a requirement.
5. The Educator / Teacher Trainer
“I want to pass on the method with integrity.”
This path is for those who feel called to shape the future of Pilates—not just by teaching clients, but by mentoring the next generation of instructors. It’s a role rooted in legacy, leadership, and often contribute to the evolution of the method.
Profile:
— Leads teacher training programs, workshops, or mentorships
— Works with certifying bodies or develops their own curriculum
— Designs assessments, supports student development, and contributes to the evolution of the method
Real Life:
You’re no longer just teaching sessions—you’re building systems, guiding growth, and holding space for new teachers as they step into the work. This role requires credibility, consistency, and the emotional bandwidth to support others through both technical and personal development.
Key Requirements:
— At least 5–8 years of consistent, well-rounded teaching experience
— It is recommended to receive mentorship from a first- or second-generation teacher to honor the lineage
— A strong grasp of curriculum design, adult learning principles, and assessment methods (Knowles, 2015; Dreyfus & Dreyfus, 1986). Having a teaching background can help here.
Common Challenges:
— Burnout from holding space for large cohorts over long periods
— Imposter syndrome, especially when first transitioning into this role
— Lack of formal training in curriculum development or educational systems
The Opportunity:
This is one of the most impactful roles in the Pilates ecosystem. As a teacher trainer, you influence not just individual clients—but entire communities through the teachers you certify. When done with clarity, structure, and reverence for the method, it becomes a deeply rewarding and purpose-driven path. A good place to start is by speaking with your own mentor, especially if you trained in a boutique school about whether they offer a teacher training program or can guide you toward the next step.
True mastery lies not in doing more, but in honoring the method with grace and integrity.
— In memory of Bob Liekens
The Hybrid Approach
Many of the most fulfilled Pilates professionals I know blend roles. A teacher trainer might still teach privates. A studio employee may run online workshops. A hobbyist might eventually launch a small home studio. Your career doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s.
Real-Life Examples:
— Maya is a studio employee who runs online mat and breakfast brunch programs on weekends.
— Heide owns a boutique studio and teaches retreats internationally once a year.
— Daniela teaches part-time while raising a family and mentoring new grads.
— I am a teacher trainer who still teaches clients two days a week to stay inspired.
Self-Assessment: Which Pilates Career Path Fits You—Now?
This isn’t just about what you want—it’s also about what you're ready for. The questions below are designed to assess both your aspirations and your current level of readiness in key areas like experience, education, teaching scope, and leadership skills.
Step 1: Circle the statement that best describes you in each row
Your Results:
— Mostly A: Grounded Practitioner
You may currently thrive in roles like Hobbyist, Studio Employee, or even a supported Independent Instructor. These paths let you build confidence and experience while staying connected to the joy of teaching without the overwhelm. Focus on refining your skills and expanding your teaching scope before taking on leadership roles.
— Mostly B: Expanding Professional
You’re ready to step into Studio Ownership, Hybrid Business Models, or grow your role as an Independent Instructor. You have solid experience and a broad skill set—and you’re at a turning point where you can grow something bigger, but may still benefit from mentorship or collaboration. Begin building systems that support you.
— Mostly C: Legacy Builder
You’re likely well-suited to become an Educator, Teacher Trainer, or Thought Leader in the field. With a strong foundation in both technical and soft skills, and a passion for guiding others, you're ready to shape the future of Pilates. Your next step may involve formalizing a training program, mentoring new teachers, or growing your influence through retreats, education, or curriculum design.
Pro Tip:
Your readiness isn’t fixed—it evolves. If you're a solid B today, you might grow into a C in a year or two with the right support and experience. The point is not to rush, but to align. Choose the path that fits your capacity now and expand into your vision with intention.
It’s Not About Doing More—It’s About Doing What’s Yours
I’ll leave you with this: You don’t need to teach more hours or get more certifications to move forward. You may just need to realign. Often, the most sustainable growth happens not by climbing higher—but by shifting sideways into something that truly fits.
There’s space in Pilates for every path. And there’s power in choosing yours with clarity.
If you're unsure, stuck, or craving a change—you’re not alone. Let this article be your starting point. And if you need help building the business side of your dream, I’m always here.
Anita Horry is a 2nd Generation Pilates Teacher, teacher trainer, and founder of the Anita Horry Academy and the Pilates Business Academy. With a background in finance and more than three decades of entrepreneurial experience, she helps Pilates professionals build careers that are meaningful, sustainable, and financially empowered. Learn more at www.anitahorryacademy.com.
References
Deci, E. L., & Ryan, R. M. (2000). The "what" and "why" of goal pursuits: Human needs and the self-determination of behavior. Psychological Inquiry, 11(4), 227–268.
https://selfdeterminationtheory.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/2000_DeciRyan_PIWhatWhy.pdf
Benz, M., & Frey, B. S. (2008). Being independent is a great thing: Subjective evaluations of self-employment and hierarchy. Economica, 75(298), 362–383.
Dreyfus, H. L., & Dreyfus, S. E. (1986). Mind over Machine: The Power of Human Intuition and Expertise in the Era of the Computer. Free Press.
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/0004370287900567?utm
Ericsson, K. A., Krampe, R. T., & Tesch-Römer, C. (1993). The role of deliberate practice in the acquisition of expert performance. Psychological Review, 100(3), 363–406.
Knowles, M. S., Holton, E. F., & Swanson, R. A. (2015). The Adult Learner (8th ed.). Routledge.
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