If you are interested in becoming an instructor, there are numerous Pilates courses available.
There are no academic entry requirements for Pilates courses, so training bodies look for a background in exercise, movement or a related physical therapy, and of course regular participation in the discipline itself.
To gain entry to REPS (The Register of Exercise Professionals), you need to qualify as a Level 2 Instructor in Exercise and Movement. Pilates courses that will enable you to do this will include the following areas of study:
- Anatomy
- Physiology
- Matwork (various levels)
- Equipment
- Work with specific groups (pregnant women, seniors)
- Movement and physical analysis
- Injury rehabilitation
- Referrals and screening
- First aid and CPR
- Supervised teaching practice
- Business skills and studio management
While each training provider has different requirements, instructor training is typically a 12-18 month part-time diploma course. This is a field that welcomes mature applicants, with experience of both life and the discipline itself valued more highly than academic background.
For those who are already qualified and wish to seek an advanced level certification, there is now the opportunity to work towards membership of REPs at level 3. Information on recognised courses and qualifications can be obtained from SkillsActive and REPs.
