National Pilates Certification

If you've ever taken a Pilates class, you can attest to the physical benefits of the exercises developed by Joseph H. and Clara Pilates. Because of the growing popularity of the workout, certified Pilates instructors are in demand in gyms, health clubs and spas throughout the nation. Certified Pilates instructors can teach group classes or train individuals in a one-on-one basis. To become a certified instructor, you must first understand who is authorized to certify Pilates instructors, as well as the necessary steps in the certification process.

  1. Certification Entities

    • While there is no official governing body over Pilates certification, several nationally-recognized certification programs are available for those who want to become a Pilates instructor. The term "Pilates," once referring specifically to the teachings of Joseph H. and Clara Pilates, is now commonly known as a general exercise program with varying forms and difficulty levels.

      As there is no nationally-standardized Pilates curriculum or testing, pilates instructors can be certified by a number of entities, including The Pilates Method Alliance (PMA), American Fitness Professionals Association (AFPA), The American Council on Exercise (ACE), The National Exercise Trainers Association (NETA), as well as their associated entities.

      Certification can be awarded in Mat Pilates, Equipment-based Pilates and Hybrid or Fusion Pilates.

    Mat Pilates Certification

    • Mat Pilates certification is often considered the most basic of Pilates training. Mat instructors should have a broad knowledge of mat exercises and the anatomy and physiology behind each movement, as well as be able to tailor each movement to specific individuals.

      Mat Pilates certification classes can last up to a week and might involve a written or demonstrative exam. Costs for the course can range depending on the training program but typically runs from $200 to $400.

    Comprehensive Certification

    • Comprehensive Pilates certification provides a much more in-depth training of Pilates. It not only focuses on Mat training, but also other equipment traditionally used in Pilates such as the reformer, a bench-like machine that adds resistance to the basic Pilates movements.

      Comprehensive Pilates training also offers an in-depth analysis on anatomy and physiology, as well as a knowledge of the Pilates history, from its development by Joseph H. and Clara Pilates.

      Comprehensive and equipment-based Pilates certification can be a much longer process than a week-long or weekend-segmented course. Some certification courses require more than a year or training along with private and group workshops. Those wishing to become a comprehensive Pilates instructor can spend up to $3,000 for the certification program.

    Hybrid Pilates

    • Hybrid, sometimes called fusion Pilates, encompasses a number of workout routines that are based on Pilates principles but are fused with other exercises and training regimes. Hybrid Pilates is not restricted to Joseph Pilates' traditional method and can include aspects of yoga, weight training and cardiovascular activity.

      Hybrid Pilates certification courses can vary greatly depending on the certifying entity and the type of exercises fused. For instance, a Yogalates (Yoga/Pilates fusion) trainee might be required to have a background in both yoga and Pilates. Courses can be singular or comprehensive, touching on a variety of fusion exercises. Check with your training school to find out which hybrid courses are available.

    Future of Pilates Certification

    • While there is, as yet, no standardized training or testing for Pilates certification, many Pilates professionals predict a national standardization for Pilates training and certification. Many associations, like PMA, have developed standardized requirements for certification as well as written exams which have been adopted and put into practice by smaller gyms and health clubs. As the exercise gains popularity, the certification practices for instructors will no doubt become more regulated.