From the article: Pilates Instructor Certification Basics
Pilates certification is a big step. Deciding to become a certified instructor requires a significant commitment of time, energy, and money. If this is a step you are thinking about taking, we'd love to know what your thoughts on getting certified are. Why do you want to be certified?
Are you already a certified instructor? It would be great if you could tell us why you got certified, and what you think about it now.
Your inspiration to get certified might help someone else find theirs! Share Your Reason
Are you already a certified instructor? It would be great if you could tell us why you got certified, and what you think about it now.
Your inspiration to get certified might help someone else find theirs! Share Your Reason
no cert, but other qualifications
- I haven't gotten a certification but teach basic mat. I've practiced Pilates since the 1980s, when it was the dance world's secret. I have a master's degree in dance, and in my department all grad students were required to take a grad Pilates course, study anatomy, and work in our Pilates studio with undergrads, who were required to put in 1 hour of Pilates a week. Our supervisor, a PhD student at the time, trained with Carola Trier. I've spent 20+ years in dance, fitness, and movement therapy, spent thousands of $ on 2 graduate degrees, and I don't feel that I need another piece of paper to prove my knowledge. I've been lucky to be hired by studio owners who respect my qualifications and years of training with various movement practices and the human body. I support the certification programs, but people need to realize that it's not the only measurement of someone's qualifications.
- —Guest Candace
to make it "must"...
- I love sports generally and I worked on it since I was young girl. The last 10 years I discovered yoga and pilates, but my life changed and couldn't find time to do what I love... Now with my job in the office, 2 kids and the housekeeping, I also teach in a gym yoga and pilates 3x week. I'll keep doing it as long as it gets!!!
- —Guest busy_mama
I saw Pilates change my body
- I was doing Mat class at the gym, and enjoying it, but I knew from readings, that there was much more to Pilates. So I took a private lesson with a Romana-certified Instructor. She immediately saw my scoliosis, and was able to work on issues that were plaguing me- tight hips and shoulder tension. I was so impressed with her knowledge and expertise, I kept coming back. My body completely changed. I had always been thin, but now I am muscular. The two sides of my back are becoming much more even in muscle tone. I have better posture and more flexibility. The change in my body was so amazing to me that I just wanted to share this magic with others! I just completed my Romana's Pilates certification and am now teaching. I chose Romana's because I knew her legacy was something I wanted to be a part of. She is amazing! And so are the instructors that her program creates. I hope I am half of what my teacher is!
- —Guest Nicole
I believe in it
- I am looking into becoming a pilates instructor. I have been practicing pilates for about two years now and thoroughly enjoy it. I initially wanted to be a math teacher and may still be one, but while studying the subject I see that teachers are so unhappy from the institutionalization method they are forced to use. If I taught pilates I would still be able to do something I love and enjoy while also guiding and helping those that are not within 'the know'. Pilates has helped with my health, mind, and also some spinal issues. I feel one step closer but am still unsure of the instruction certifying process, so if you have any valuable tips to share please let me know! My email is cholz2100@gmail.com. Thank you!
- —Guest Christine
To show my commitment to the Industry
- I wanted to be able to prove to others I was commited to learning to be a professional teacher, and was of a standard that would be peer acknowledged. Ongoing professional development responsibilities go along with that and I am very passionate about that. Hence my website http://pilatesscene.com/ that assists us all continue to resource new learning opportunities. I am proud of my certification (s) and will always assist new students to understand the relevance to our client community, and the importance of keeping the Pilates name credible and positive.
- —melissaturnock
Pilates Certification IS important
- I chose to become a PMA certified instructor because I believe it further validates my training through Core Dynamics. Clients can be certain that I have passed an exam that ensures I have a comprehensive understanding of the Pilates Method. I wouldn't go to a physician, cosmetologist, or any other professional that hadn't passed their boards. Why should Pilates be any different? Pilates instructors are teaching exercise, but often find themselves working with clients who are recovering from injuries, taking certain medications, or have certain physical conditions that need safe and effective intervention. I don't believe the "weekend trained" Pilates instructor can possibly have a thorough enough understanding of Pilates to safely and adequately provide this service to clients. The certification exam is one step toward legitimizing the Pilates profession.
- —Guest Anne
to learn
- When I got certified, the credential wasn't as important as it is now. I did it to learn and to feel more confident teaching.
- —Guest IMintoPilates
