Becoming A Reformer Pilates Teacher – The First Step Forward!
We hope you have just decided to follow your dreams and become a Reformer Pilates Teacher!? That is huge and exciting! It is about the time to choose your training provider and we are here to help because we get it. There are so many options to choose from and things to consider. Read our tips and answer the questions outlined below before you go shopping around for the best possible start to your Reformer Pilates Teacher journey!
Just like you we too like to do our research. But the most important part is to take action and start! The rest will follow! Trust the process and stay proactive!
Your Background And Skillset
This is a big one to start with. Couple quick but important questions to ponder before we move forward! What is your background? Have you got group fitness teaching experience? And have you already been in the health and fitness industry for a while? Have you got sound understanding of anatomy and movement?
This will determine if you would benefit from more lengthy and comprehensive face to face course which allows you to learn the fundamentals at slower pace. Or you could consider an intensive online course to kick start your Pilates career faster if you are well seasoned movement professional. You can always do a refresher course if you have been away from the Health and Fitness Industry. Those of you who are brand new to teaching movement we recommend that you start your career with comprehensive anatomy course to set the foundation if that is not included to course curriculum.
However I dare to say the real learning starts during practice teaching with real clients and after your graduation. It is up to you how much effort and energy you put into your new career. Learning never stops. Find a mentor, attend further education courses and workshops, teach and gain experience through trial and error, listen to podcasts and read the books. At the end of the day the hunger to grow and better your skills will shape you as a Reformer Pilates instructor.
Pre-requisites
What are the pre-requisites to enroll in to the course you like? Are you looking for more comprehensive course or fast-track/intensive option? Can you enroll in to Reformer Pilates course only or is is a requirement that you do both Mat and Reformer Pilates certification courses?
Do they have bridging options? Do they accept your existing Mat Pilates or other allied health professional or fitness qualification from another provider? Is there an extra cost to complete a required module or course to make you eligible? Lastly but not least. Are you competent in the language the course is delivered? Have you got or are able to get the equipment and material required?
Government Accredited And Recognized Provider
Reformer Pilates courses with a government accredited qualification have been assessed in relation to the “nationally standardized” course competency criteria. These are formal non-expiring qualifications accredited under the National Qualifications Framework and criteria may differ from country to country. Accredited courses can only be delivered by a government registered training organization. If government accredited and recognized Reformer Pilates certification course is important to you ensure the course you like is one of them. For instance in Australia PAA has a list of government accredited Pilates training providers. You may value these courses for better chances of employment nationally and internationally over some other providers.
Some Pilates Studios prefer to employ Reformer Pilates teachers who have government accredited certification to ensure they are competent and have undertaken a comprehensive course program. However government accredited certification like no other certificate cannot guarantee the quality of the classes, client experience or the trainer. This once again comes down to personal efforts, eagerness to learn and develop ones skills and expand knowledge. Many employers also value well known international Pilates training providers and courses like Basi or Stott Pilates that have a good reputation. As well as your personality, peoples skills and attitude!
Your Budget, Timeline And Other Commitments
How is your life situation (timeline, budget, family and other commitments)? And how much time and money do you have to complete the course? Does the provider give you an estimate how long it takes to complete the course? Can you progress at your own pace or do you follow a weekly schedule, lectures, master classes etc. set up by the provider? What time are the lectures (make sure you have checked the local time for you)? Have you got enough time to keep up with the studies? When do you want to start teaching?
Have you got support and mentor available to help you and answer your questions any time? When can you start and when is the next intake or can you start right now? Can you make a payment plan? Could you get discount if you pay upfront? Is it possible to wait for EOFY sale or similar?
Ensure you understand how much time you are required to set aside for your Reformer Pilates teacher studies. If life happens is the Reformer Pilates course provider flexible to make an alternative plan? If yes how much does that cost? How often do they run the courses?
Perks, Pros And Cons
Does the course fee include a “free membership” to attend classes online or in person or do you have to pay to attend and observe reformer pilates classes? Is the course material and books you need included to the price?
Do you need to hire/purchase a reformer or can you use a studio to be able to practice? Would you prefer the in person experience to form relationships and learn to tactile cue straight from the get go? Do you want to have a space where you can shoot your questions when they pop into your mind and get an answer on the spot? Can you get the feedback on your skills and knowledge on regular basis?
Convenience and consistency: Is the Reformer Pilates course structure easy to follow? Do you have to enroll and complete multiple modules and pay for each? Or is it straight forward one course to get certified? Do you understand the curriculum? Is the training provider offering post course support and possibility to join a community of likeminded trainers?
It is worth to write down pros and cons of the course you have been eyeing on. Ensure you understand what is required to complete the course and to get certified so there are no nasty surprises that will blow your budget and time. And also have a think about what type of learner you are. Do you benefit from being around like-minded people and having someone guiding and watching over? Or do you have discipline to practice and do the task on your own at home with the same amount of effort and energy when none is watching?
The Pilates Method And Style
Where and who do you want to teach? What style of Reformer Pilates do you prefer? More traditional or contemporary? Hybrid? Have you got an instructor that inspires you to become a trainer? Or certain pilates style and methodology? A studio you want to work at?
Do you see yourself working with bigger groups, semi private or 1:1? Are you interested in clinical pilates and rehab? Are you changing careers or looking for a side hustle? Will you work for multiple studios? Build a home studio? Corporate Pilates? Own a studio? Mobile Pilates business?
Choose a course that aligns with you aspirations and values! Does the Reformer Pilates certification course provider offer some content and education about Pilates & Business, Client Experience and more? Do they update their curriculum against the latest updates in the health and fitness industry and scientific study results?
Recommendations And Reviews
Companies website reviews and testimonials most often show all the praise so it is worth to spend some time to research. Read reviews about the company, facilitators and the course itself. Check their website, social media platforms and google.
Ask around as word of mouth reviews are often more honest and genuine. Is there a person/teacher who inspires you to become a reformer pilates instructor? With who did they study? Or is there a certain style and methodology you prefer? A studio you want to work at or currently practice? Talk to these Pilates Trainers and ask their opinions!
You can also organize a call to discuss any questions you may have with the training provider you are leaning towards to! Alternatively you could attend a webinar that most of the Reformer Pilates Certification providers offer. They give you an overview of the course and spare some time for Q&A at the end.
Your Location
Where do you live? What language do you speak? Is it possible to attend in person workshops to create rapport and connection with your fellow students and the facilitator? Do you have steady, fast and reliable internet connection to attend live online workshops? Or do you need to rely on “do it at your on pace” course?
Have you got access to studio to use the reformer for self mastery and class planning? Can you buy or hire one? How are you going to observe and participate in classes? Would you be able to travel to attend the workshops for a weekend(s)?
Summary
We have got 6 super important words left for you! Choose a course and take action! Check the Best Online Reformer Pilates Training Courses for 2023 here and get started when it suits you.
