Frequently Asked Questions about our Program
- How do I register for a pilates instructor workshop or course?
- Registering for a course is easy. Simply call 913-345-8787 or Register Now.
- Do I need to take an anatomy course before I take the Mat 101 course?
- A formal anatomy course is not required to take Mat 101. We do review basic anatomy terminology and briefly discuss the bones, muscles and joints of the core. If you are interested in learning more about anatomy please register for 201: Anatomy and Biomechanics for Movement Instructors.
- Do I need to be good at Pilates before I take a course?
- This is a workshop for Pilates instructors. Therefore, a basic knowledge of the Pilates beginning exercises is required before taking Mat 101. A comprehensive knowledge of Pilates is required before embarking on the Equipment Instructor Education process. Please refer to the Pilates teacher training pre-requisites for each course to prepare yourself for this process.
- Can anyone take any course offered?
- Please review the Pilates course descriptions and pre-requisites for each course. If you meet the requirements, register online now.
- Why is the Mat 101 course required before the Equipment Instructor Education?
- This is a workshop for Pilates instructors. Therefore, a basic knowledge of the Pilates beginning exercises is required before taking Mat 101. A comprehensive knowledge of Pilates is required before embarking on the Equipment Instructor Education process. Please refer to the Pilates teacher training pre-requisites for each course to prepare yourself for this process.
- Do I need to be good at Pilates before I take a course?
- Mat 101 provides the skill set such as cuing techniques, exercise choreography, modalities of progression, exercise modification and variations necessary for continuing with the equipment instructor education process.
- How does it work if I finish the Pilates Reformer component and then decide to return for the comprehensive component?
- If you are interested in continuing with the Comprehensive Instructor Education after you have completed all requirements for the Reformer Component, you will need to re-submit your application. After being accepted you will take the lecture, observation and self-practice for the Cadillac, Chair and Barrels component. However, you will not complete the entire test-out or Apprenticeship. This track is outlined under the Pilates Equipment Course Description in our curriculum.
- Will I be certified to teach Pilates after completing the course work?
- You are only certified to teach Pilates after completing the coursework, written and practical exams and the apprenticeship hours.
- How do I keep my instructor education and certification current?
- Certified Equipment Instructors are expected to complete 15 hours of continuing education in Pilates related courses within two years. Contact Amanda Jessee, Director of Instructor Education at 913-345-8787 to have the forms mailed to you.
- Where can I work after I am certified?
- Pilates instructors are needed all over the country in Pilates and Yoga Studios, Fitness Centers and in Private Personal Training settings. Personal Best Pilates Studio is the largest Pilates studio in the metropolitan Kansas City area. If you are interested in working at Personal Best Pilates Studio please contact Carrie Cohn, Owner 913-345-8787
- What National Standards have been established for Pilates Instructors?
The Pilates Method Alliance (PMA) is leading the way in establishing National Standards of Instructor Education for Pilates Instructors by developing an exam to test the minimal knowledge required to be a Pilates Instructor.
Personal Best Pilates Instructor Academy is proud to be a corporate sponsor of the PMA. To sit for the PMA exam, an instructor must have a minimum of 200 hours of formal education with a reputable Pilates Instructor Certification Program which includes an apprenticeship. Personal Best Pilates Instructor Academy’s full Equipment Instructor Education exceeds these requirements with 500 hours of formal study including a 300 hour apprenticeship.
- Is the Personal Best Pilates Studio Instructor Education Program recognized nationally?
We are recognized as a Balanced Body™ Partner in Education. Our Instructor Academy exceeds the National Standards set by the Pilates Method Alliance (PMA). Many of our courses are recognized by the Pilates Method Alliance (PMA), American Council on Exercise (ACE), National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), and Aerobic and Fitness Association of America (AFAA). Read more about our Pilates certifications.
Our Director of Education, Amanda Jessee holds a bachelors degree in Exercise Science, a master’s degree in Higher Education Administration and is a certified Pilates Teacher with the Pilates Method Alliance (PMA). She has over 20 years of experience in the fitness industry including teaching college level exercise science courses and curriculum development. Amanda is a certified Pilates Mat and Equipment Instructor.
- What is your cancellation policy?
In order to serve all our clients, we require a minimum of two (2) weeks notice of cancellation for refunds. There will be a 25% adminstrative fee for all cancellations made with two weeks or more notice. Unfortunately we can not offer refunds for cancellations made with less than one week notice.
- Do you provide continuing education courses?
Yes we do! If you want to take a continuing education course in Pilates, please visit our Pilates continuing education page to learn more.
