Where Do I Practice Pilates?

Have you ever considered where your Pilates instructor acquired their teaching skills? Not all Pilates instructors are created equal, and this also applies to the studio where you practice. Pilates is not merely a trendy workout for the ultra-fit; it is a practice that can transform your daily life. Therefore, understanding how your instructor was trained is crucial. What should you look for in a Pilates instructor to help you decide on the best place for your practice and growth?

There are various types of Pilates studios available. Some focus on fitness, others on rehabilitation, and some offer a comprehensive approach, covering everything from foundational to advanced techniques. When beginning your Pilates practice, it's important to be aware of your personal needs. If you have an injury or require insurance coverage for a Physical Therapist, you might consider a studio where instructors are also Physical Therapists or specialize in rehabilitation. They can address your rehabilitation needs while integrating Pilates into your training. For those with extensive Pilates experience who have mastered foundational and advanced exercises on all equipment, a fitness-oriented studio may be suitable. However, such advanced students are less common. So why are many new studios of this type? Pilates is currently trending, but these studios often don't require progression from beginner to advanced exercises, which poses a risk for new students. This raises the question of whether the focus is on profit or education. Pilates should begin with foundational mat work before progressing to equipment. If your first session lacks an assessment and starts on a machine, you might not be learning Pilates correctly, but merely getting a workout. At Pivot Pilates, we begin with a thorough assessment of your health history, alignment, and goals. We then focus on foundational exercises and mat work during the first three private sessions, teaching breathing, alignment adjustments, and addressing any injuries. Following this, we introduce you to the reformer, chair, and other apparatus over three private sessions to ensure a comprehensive understanding before joining group classes. While this process may seem extensive, Pilates is a method that requires time to learn and apply.

Returning to the initial question: where did my Pilates instructor acquire their training? Numerous certifying programs exist, but it's essential that any Pilates certification comes from a Master Trainer and is internationally recognized. National certifications often indicate in-house training without regulation or quality control, typically resulting in instructors who are not comprehensively trained. Comprehensive instructors undergo 500 hours of education, including study, practice, observation, and instruction under a Master Trainer, culminating in a final examination. While reading books, watching videos, and self-practice are beneficial, they are insufficient without formal training and accountability. Training under a Master, practicing under supervision, and passing an international certification are essential. Additionally, instructors who have completed apprenticeship programs or pursued further education in other fitness or medical disciplines offer enhanced teaching capabilities.

If you wish to learn more about Pilates organizations and studios, please contact us directly. At Pivot Pilates, we offer an apprenticeship program and require our instructors to have or be working towards a comprehensive internationally recognized certification.

Glenn Morgan, MFA, MS

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