July 17, 2023 - Carrie Cohn

Welcome back to the Pilates Daily Teaser blog! In this month’s blog I am going to try and simplify some of the confusion about how to become a Pilates instructor. I talk to aspiring Pilates teachers, personal trainers, yoga teacher and fitness business owners every day, and the most frequent question I get is "How do I become a Pilates instructor?"

Are you as excited as I am to dive into the world of Pilates? If you've ever dreamed of becoming a Pilates instructor, you might be wondering how to get started. Well, you're in luck because this month we’ll explore the different types of Pilates teacher certifications, and how to choose the best Pilates instructor training program for you,  your goals and most importantly, your clients!

A quick history of Joseph Pilates (the man)

First things first, let's take a little trip back in time and learn about the history of Pilates. Pilates was created by Joseph Pilates (or Joe, as his friends called him) back in the 20th century. Joe was super passionate about fitness and believed that physical and mental health were closely connected. He developed a series of exercises that focused on improving strength, flexibility, and posture, and he called his method "Contrology". Joseph Pilates wrote a short book in 1945 called “Return to Life Through Contrology”. He died before developing a formal Pilates teacher certification for his method.

Classical Pilates Instructor Certification

Nowadays, there are two main types of Pilates instructor certifications: classical Pilates and contemporary Pilates. Classical Pilates is all about sticking to the original teachings of Joseph Pilates. If you're into tradition and preserving the essence of Pilates, this might be the certification for you. To become a classical Pilates instructor, you'll need to complete a certification program that focuses on the principles and exercises created by Joe himself. There are only a few strictly classical Pilates instructor training programs. Generally speaking, these classical Pilates instructor training programs are very expensive (many cost more than $5,000), require years of training and might include an apprenticeship.

Contemporary Pilates Instructor Certification

On the other hand, contemporary Pilates takes a more modern approach. It incorporates new research and advancements in exercise science while still honoring the core principles of Pilates. Contemporary Pilates instructor certifications often include a blend of classical Pilates exercises and additional techniques and modifications. So, if you're interested in exploring new ways to enhance the Pilates experience. Contemporary Pilates instructor training can range greatly in cost, quality and time commitment. When researching contemporary Pilates instructor training programs, make sure you do your due diligence. Look for a reputable company with lots of reviews from customers. And, if possible, spend some time asking questions about the program, such as the background and education of the trainers.

Want (or need) an Online Pilates Certification?

Now, let's talk about the cost of online vs in-person Pilates instructor certification. The prices can vary depending on the program and location, so once again, it's essential to do your research. Some certification programs only offer in-person training, while others provide online options. Keep in mind that in-person training might require you to travel and is typically more expensive than online Pilates teacher training. Online Pilates instructor training is becoming increasingly popular because it offers flexibility and convenience. Just make sure to choose a reputable program that aligns with your goals.

What is the NPCP (formerly the PMA?)

Finally, let’s look at the National Pilates Certification Program (NPCP). The NPCP is NOT a Pilates instructor training company. They provide no actual training. The NPCP is a non-profit organization that proctors an exam for Pilates teachers. Some people choose to sit for the NPCP exam after completing their Pilates teacher training. Currently, to qualify to take the NPCP Certified Pilates Teacher exam, you must complete a minimum of 450 hours of Pilates teacher training that includes ALL the Pilates equipment. The NPCP does not recognize Pilates mat and/or Reformer-only Pilates teacher training.

No matter which certification path you choose, becoming a Pilates instructor is an exciting and rewarding journey. It's a chance to share your passion for fitness, help others improve their health, and grow as a person. Remember, Pilates is not just about physical exercise; it's about finding balance and connecting your mind and body.
So, if you're ready to embark on this Pilates adventure, start researching different certification programs, compare costs and curriculum, and find the one that resonates with you. Whether you're drawn to classical Pilates or contemporary Pilates, the most important thing is to follow your passion and have fun along the way.

Pilates Instructor Academy has been training and certifying Pilates teachers since 2000, and offers fully self-paced online Pilates teacher training and certifications. Our mission is to provide Pilates instructor training that is high-quality, accessible and affordable. If becoming a certified Pilates teacher in 2023 is your dream, click here to get started or call 888-251-2080 to talk with a real person.