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How Do I Choose the Best Pilates Instructor Courses?

D. Nelson
D. Nelson

If you would like to become a Pilates instructor, you can benefit from earning professional certification. This means that you should take a number of Pilates instructor courses that help you to prepare for proficiency exams. Individuals who have not yet mastered Pilates should take courses that teach them how to perform exercises and use related equipment. Courses in doing Pilates often range from beginner mat level classes to to expert courses. Once you have become proficient in this exercise system, you should take Pilates instructor courses that allow you to earn the certification of your choice since there are different kinds of pilates instructor certificates.

Pilates is a kind of exercise that helps individuals to develop strength and improve flexibility. Individuals who practice Pilates tend to focus on core strength, breathing techniques, and spine health. Beginner courses in Pilates tend to focus on basic exercises that are performed on a mat, while more advanced Pilates exercises require use of specially designed equipment.

A woman doing pilates.
A woman doing pilates.

A person who has demonstrated proficiency in Pilates might begin by training to become a mat instructor. The best Pilates instructor courses for this type of individual may include an in-depth look at basic mat techniques. While students gain a better grasp of how to Pilates mat exercises, they also learn how to instruct students to perform these techniques.

Individuals who already have earned mat certification should take Pilates instructor courses that focus on comprehensive instruction. In these courses, students learn about common Pilates exercise equipment, as well as how safely and effectively to instruct students to use equipment. It also is common for students in these courses to learn about the history of Pilates and to acquire a greater knowledge of its benefits.

If you already are qualified to practice as an instructor, the best Pilates instructor courses might be those that allow you to pursue a more specialized career. For example, if you are interested in teaching Pilates for individuals undergoing physical rehabilitation, you might want to take physical therapy courses at an accredited school. Many instructors take courses that teach them to incorporate Pilates with other exercises, such as yoga.

In all cases, it is important that you take Pilates instructor courses with a teacher who is well established. Likewise, it is important that if your courses lead to certification, it is is recognized in different regions around the country or even around the world. To find courses that are professionally recognized, it can be a good idea to use resources offered by organizations such as the Pilates Method Alliance (PMA).

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    • A woman doing pilates.
      A woman doing pilates.