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Pilates Instructor
Fitness

How to become a Pilates Instructor

What does a Pilates Instructor do?

Looking for a career that never stops moving? You should be a Pilates Instructor…

Pilates Instructors guide and instruct clients in gyms and fitness classes, teaching them a range of full-body and mind workouts that help to improve strength, posture, and flexibility.

Whether it’s through instructing a group to control their breathing, or encouraging an individual to carry out precise and flowing movements – a Pilates Instructor’s role is generally based around helping others relax and maintain better control over their bodies. Most Pilate’s exercises take place on a mat, but some could involve the use of other specialist equipment.

Typical duties for a Pilates Instructor could include:

  • Planning exercises to suit each clients’ ability
  • Developing training programmes
  • Simplifying and breaking down movements to help people learn step-by-step
  • Addressing weaknesses or injuries with specially designed exercises
  • Maintaining records of clients’ progress
  • Practicing techniques and keeping fit and active

Is a career as a Pilates Instructor right for me?

A combination of specialist knowledge and excellent communication skills are absolutely essential for any Pilates Instructor.

Because aside from knowing the ins and outs of human anatomy and the functionality of the equipment, you’ll need to be able to help guide and motivate others effectively.You should also be fit, enthusiastic, and committed to helping others.

A Pilates Instructor will need:

  • Excellent motivational skills
  • Empathy and compassion
  • An ability to relay instructions clearly
  • An upbeat personality
  • A genuine passion for Pilates and fitness
  • Great leadership skills

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Career progression and salary expectations for a Pilates Instructor

1

Junior Pilates Instructor

| Up to £12,000
2

Pilates Instructor

| Up to £20,000
3

Senior Pilates Instructor

| Up to £40,000

Get qualified as a Pilates Instructor

You’ll need to have a proven track record of attending Pilate’s classes on a regular basis, alongside an industry-recognised diploma or qualification to get started as a Pilates Instructor. Additionally, previous experience in teaching sport, exercise, or dance may be beneficial.

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What's it like to be a Pilates Instructor?

"Teaching Pilates doesn’t really feel like work. I’m a keen Pilates enthusiast, and after many years of classes (and gradually starting to come up with my own programmes), I decided it was time to start being more proactive with my hobby. So I studied for a qualification and started instructing at my local gym. Aside from being able to do what I love as a job, I get to use my experience to help others improve – and it’s great to watch the difference a few exercises can make to their fitness, not to mention their wellbeing. The ability to run my classes in evenings and weekends also works perfectly for me – and means I don’t have to compromise my other commitments."

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