How Long Does It Take to Become a Certified Pilates Instructor (and can I earn while I learn)?
Embarking on the journey to become a certified Pilates instructor is both exciting and rewarding. Understanding the different certification paths and their time commitments is essential to align your training with your career goals. At Kink Pilates in Newton Highlands, we offer comprehensive training programs through Pilates Academy International (PAI) that not only prepare you thoroughly but also provide opportunities to earn while you learn.
Certification Paths and Required Courses
Mat Certification: The Foundation
• ABC: Anatomy, Biomechanics, and Cueing for Posture, Form, and Alignment
• Complete Mat: Covers the entire Mat Pilates repertoire.
• Hours Required: Approximately 100 hours, including coursework, practice teaching, and observation.
• Timeline: Typically 2–3 months, depending on your schedule.
• Good For: Those starting on a budget or looking to teach mat classes in gyms, community centers, or online.
Note: While mat certification is a great entry point, it’s limited if you want to teach in a studio setting or work with specialized equipment.
Reformer Certification: Expanding Your Skills
• ABC: Anatomy, Biomechanics, and Cueing for Posture, Form, and Alignment (if not previously completed)
• Complete Reformer : Covers the entire Mat Pilates repertoire.
• Hours Required: Approximately 150–200 hours, including coursework, practice teaching, and observation.
• Timeline: Typically 3–6 months, depending on your availability.
• Good For: Those who want to teach reformer classes in a studio and work with small groups or private clients.
3. Comprehensive Certification: Mastering All Apparatus
• ABC: Anatomy, Biomechanics, and Cueing for Posture, Form, and Alignment (if not previously completed)
• Complete Mat
• Complete Reformer
• Cadillac
• Chair
• Barrels
• Hours Required: Approximately 450–500 hours, including coursework, practice teaching, and observation.
• Timeline: Typically 6–12 months, depending on your schedule and pace.
• Good For: Those who want to teach in a studio setting, work with private clients, and have the flexibility to teach on all Pilates equipment.
Can You Earn Income as You Train? Absolutely.
At Kink Pilates, we believe in supporting our trainees both financially and professionally. Most studios will not pay teachers who have not completed a certification. With our paid apprenticeship program, you can start earning income once you complete your foundational coursework and complete enough practice teaching hours to feel confident teaching real clients. You’ll gain valuable experience teaching real clients while logging your practice teaching hours—a win-win for your career and your wallet.
Becoming a Pilates instructor takes time, effort, and dedication, but the journey is worth it. Whether you choose a mat certification or dive into a comprehensive program, finding a training that fits your goals is key. At Kink Pilates in Newton Highlands, we’re here to help you every step of the way.
