The role of a Pilates instructor is to work with their client to realign the body's structure and achieve a balance within the musclo-skeletal system. Pilates teacher jobs are on the increase - but what else is involved?
A pilates instructor trains on either mats or specially designed equipment and works one to one or with small groups of clients, typically between 4-12 people, of all ages and abilities.
Pilates teacher jobs require specific qualifications and various organisations offer training. A basic qualification would be the OCR Level 2 Certificate in Teaching Exercise and Fitness (in the context of Pilates Instructor). This allows entry to Register of Exercise Professionals (REPs), as a Level 2 Instructor in Exercise and Movement.
This basic course will cover areas all basic including anatomy, physiology, teaching practice, and a specialist unit on planning and teaching Pilates. While there are no academic entry requirements, but applicants should have a background in exercise, movement or physical therapy, and ideally have attended regular Pilates classes.
However, to be considered a fully trained Pilates teacher requires further instruction. This would typically involve a 12-18 month part-time teacher training diploma course.
The modules covered may include :
Mat work (various levels)
Classical Pilates repertoire
Pilates equipment
Work with specific groups (pregnant women, seniors)
Movement and physical analysis
Applications of the method for rehabilitating injury
Benefits of referral and screening
Supervised teaching practice
Business skills and studio management
At the completion of the training you will be required to take both written and practical examinations. Finally, all practicing teachers must hold adequate and valid insurance cover and a current certificate in first aid and CPR.
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