The Best Pilates Certification Programs

The Pilates Method Alliance, an organization founded to protect the core principles and exercises developed by Joseph Pilates, has established certification standards for Pilates instructors. The rigorous certification program includes a 150-question multiple choice exam and a minimum of 450 hours of Pilates training, apprenticeship, self-study and assistant hours through an approved program. Upon completion of the Instructor Training Program, students are awarded the titled of Certified Pilates Teacher, and are ready to teach classes or start their own practice.

  1. True Pilates

    • True Pilates New York is home base for the Romana's Pilate Certification program, which is available in Manhattan, as well as several locations throughout the country. The 600-hour program covers classic Pilates methods, including matwork and exercises on the reformer, chair and other equipment. The school is managed by Romana Kryzanowska, a Pilates "elder," which means she originally trained directly with Joseph Pilates. The Instructor Training Program (IITP) features hands-on instruction, assistant teaching alongside instructors, lectures and coursework. To enroll, students must be proficient in intermediate-level Pilates.

      True Pilates New York
      50 West 57th street 6th floor
      212-757-0724
      truepilatesny.com

    Peak Pilates

    • Peak Pilates, located in Boulder, Colorado, offers a 452-hour instructor training program based on contemporary Pilates methods. The program focuses on mat and equipment work, and the training is divided into three levels that gradually increase in complexity and depth. Peak Pilates certification programs use training modules so that students can set their own pace and move on to the next module when they are prepared. The course includes lectures, presentations, private sessions and group clases and educational materials, including manuals and DVDs. Participants also learn basic exercise templates and cueing instructions when working with students.

      Peak Pilates
      5555 Central Avenue, Ste 200
      Boulder, CO 80301
      800-925-3674
      peakpilates.com

    Club Pilates San Diego

    • Club Pilates San Diego offers a full Pilates Teacher Training that focuses on matwork, as well as Pilates equipment, including the reformer, chair and barrel. The 500-hour course addresses working with classes and individuals, as how to determine which movements are needed for an individual's posture and personality. Participants learn about movement cues and transitions, postural assessment and injury contraindications. The course includes a 12-week lecture program, work with instructors, self-practice and a written paper. Participants also study strength training guidelines endorsed by the American College of Sports Medicine.

      Club Pilates San Diego
      4901 Morena Blvd. Suite 210
      San Diego, CA, 92117
      858-531-2348
      clubpilatessandiego.com