5 Things I wished I knew before becoming a Pilates instructor

Hindsight is always 20/20, especially as you start your Pilates career. After years of building my own Pilates business and helping others do the same, I’ve noticed several common mistakes instructors make as they begin this career path. 

1. Comprehensive training is important!

It seems obvious, but I recommend getting comprehensive Pilates teacher training. Look for training programs that are 100-125 hours (for Mat & Reformer programs) or 200+ hours for more comprehensive certification programs in Mat, Reformer, Cadillac, Chair & Barrel plus Injuries, Anatomy & Special Populations. If you’re serious about turning your love for Pilates into a career (or even a profitable side hustle), invest in quality instructors and schools to learn as much as possible. 

(It can also help to take some business classes, especially if you plan to operate your own studio one day.)

2. Get trained from experienced instructors

Vet the instructors of any Pilates teacher training programs you plan to take. Ensure they have extensive experience in fitness and the Pilates methodology on which you want to base your practice. Instructors with a deep understanding of anatomy and common health and wellness issues can help you get a more well-rounded education. 

If you plan to specialize in Pilates for specific populations (such as pre and post-natal, neurological or those with musculoskeletal issues), ensure you learn from qualified and experienced teachers.

Bonus Tip: The best Pilates instructors invest in ongoing or regular skill upgrading. By seeking regular skills upgrading and refreshers, you can stay on top of developments in health and wellness and in any specializations you have. 

3. Ask (lots of) questions

Before choosing your Pilates teacher, ask lots of questions! Ask your instructors questions such as:

• What type of Pilates do you teach or have experience in?
• What are your Pilates and health and fitness education or certifications?
• What is your professional experience in Pilates?
• Do you still teach clients directly (through group or 1:1 training)?

This last bullet point is critical! If your Pilates teacher maintains an active Pilates practice, it adds to their relevance, currency, and credibility. 

Look for a combination of education, skills, and experience that is important to you. You’ll get the greatest benefit from your teacher training when you resonate and trust your teacher, so look for someone you feel comfortable with and like. 

4. Seek mentorship 

A mentor can help you and your business grow in any career path. Choose a mentor in your field with a point of view or career path that you want to emulate or learn from. A mentor is someone you meet with regularly for career or business advice and support. Depending on the arrangement you have, you may have a formal meeting schedule or communicate as needed. 

Some business organizations and associations in your area may have official mentorship programs, so ask about those locally. You can also approach a Pilates instructor directly to ask if they offer mentorships, or look for online mentorships to access mentors beyond your local community.

Mentors can help you at any time, especially in the early stages of your practice as you start a new business and establish yourself in the local market. 

5. Immerse in the world you want

There are many places and individuals where you can learn to become a Pilates instructor. Each instructor brings a unique vision to their practice, shaping a distinctive environment. As you participate in Pilates classes (as a student or teacher-in-training), it’s important to select a program or school that aligns with the type of practice you envision for yourself, and the kind of instructor you aspire to be. 

This may include any or all of the following:

• Private classes
• Group classes
• Online programs
• Subscription or membership services
• Collaborations or shared space with other health and wellness services (like dance classes or natural health practitioners)
• Merchandise or product sales

If you’re still deciding what you want your practice to be, try different classes to see what combination of client experiences you want to create with your space.