I still remember sitting at the dining table with my partner and telling him I wanted to sign up for the Pilates teacher training at my studio. By then, I had already been a regular student there for almost eight or nine years, practicing three times a week. I simply wanted to learn more and improve my own practice. So when the studio launched their new teacher training program, I felt an inner calling to dive deeper.
After completing the training, I got the chance to teach Mat Pilates, Springboard and Barre classes on Sundays. Not long after, I decided to quit my corporate job to travel around Southeast Asia indefinitely—which meant I also had to give up teaching.
But only a few months into my travels, I found myself reading about Pilates again and getting curious if there was more to learn. Trainings often just scratch the surface of what teaching is really about. So there I was—six months after finishing my first training—researching my options again: internationally certified schools, classical vs. contemporary approaches, online vs. in-person programs. I texted studios, teachers and asked specific questions… questions I only knew to ask because I had already gone through a training and done much more research this time around.
So with this article, my aim is to give you some of that input in order to help you make a more informed decision. I won’t share the exact schools I trained with, because I don’t want to influence your choice based on my personal path. But here’s how I’d approach it today if I were starting fresh:
Know Your WHY
Before you dive into all the logistics—like the school, the cost, or the length—take a moment to ask yourself:
Why do I want to do this training?
- Do you want to become a Pilates teacher?
- Are you looking to deepen your own practice?
- Do you already teach movement and want to expand your skillset?
- Do you dream of switching careers entirely?
There’s no right or wrong reason—but knowing your why will help you navigate all the choices ahead. Being clear on your motivation will help you find a program that truly fits.
You can also reflect on class styles and teachers:
- What kind of Pilates classes do you currently enjoy?
- Are they more strength-based, dynamic or classical in nature?
- Do you want to learn how to teach or just understand the method better?
Your “why” is your compass—let it guide your search.
Understand the Different Styles
There are different Pilates schools and styles. Each approach has its merits, and there’s no “one size fits all.” What matters is what resonates with you—your background, goals and preferred teaching style.
"The biggest misconception right now is that any exercise done on equipment that looks like a reformer is Pilates"
Classical Pilates
Joseph Pilates’ original repertoire, taught in a specific order with minimal variations.
contemporary pilates
A modern adaptation that integrates new research, therapeutic principles and creative sequencing, while still honoring the Pilates method.
modern fusion / Fitness pilates
I use this term to describe classes that blend Pilates with elements from other fitness modalities. Think: HIIT Pilates, Reformer Sculpt, Barre-Pilates or Yoga-Pilates hybrids.
Globally recognized Schools vs. Local Studio Trainings
Global brands like Balanced Body, STOTT, BASI, Polestar are widely recognized and may give you more flexibility if you plan to teach internationally. Despite their global presence, the availability of specific programs (e.g. mat, reformer, Cadillac, chair, barrels, comprehensive) can vary based on the region and local demand.
On the other hand, some studio-based trainings can provide a more intimate learning experience—and may offer teaching opportunities directly afterward. Bonus Tip: Before booking into an in-studio training: understand the studio’s teaching philosophy, see if their instructors who will be teaching in the training have completed reputable training programs and if their training program in general aligns with your preferences.
Contemporary Pilates teacher trainings offered under the umbrella of globally recognized schools (like STOTT, BASI, Polestar or Balanced Body) usually follow a structured, high-quality curriculum and maintain consistent standards across locations. In contrast, studio-based teacher trainings are entirely shaped by the individual(s) running them—their background, experience and teaching philosophy. That doesn’t mean they’re less valuable, but the quality can vary. It’s worth asking about the lead teacher’s credentials, experience and how the training is structured.
Comprehensive vs. Modular Programs
International schools usually offer modular certifications that can build toward a full comprehensive diploma. Local studio programs might be more streamlined but may not offer apparatus training.
- Standalone Mat or Reformer certifications,
- or both Mat & Reformer combined.
- Comprehensive programs cover Mat and all studio apparatus like Reformer, Cadillac, Chair, Barrel.
© Photos by Sirimah
Consider the Practical Aspects
- Duration: Weekend-based over several months vs. full-time intensives
- Format: In-person, online, hybrid
- Location: Local or abroad (consider travel costs)
- Time & energy: Can you realistically commit to the schedule?
- Cost: Including study materials, travel, exam fees
- Payment plans: Some programs offer installment options
Bonus Tip: Ask About the Exam Format
This is something I only learned after chatting with other teachers in Bali who trained at different schools. Exam formats vary a lot:
- Some schools require you to complete supervised hours before even qualifying for the practical exam.
- Others hold open practical exams with random studio clients.
- Some exams are online, others in person.
- One theory exam might include a full anatomy breakdown, another just three basic questions.
What you choose depends on what feels right to you—but it’s worth asking ahead of time.
What to Look For in a Training Program
- International recognition: If you want to teach abroad, choose a school that’s known and respected globally (think Balanced Body, STOTT, BASI, Polestar and many others—definitely do your research as there are others out there too)
- What’s actually included in the price: This one’s crucial! Some programs may seem more affordable at first glance, but don’t include key components like anatomy modules, printed manuals or advanced coursework. I’ve inquired with programs that looked budget-friendly—until I realized the essentials were priced as add-ons. Always ask for a detailed breakdown of what’s included and what’s not.
- Self-practice & teaching experience: Look for programs that include teaching time and encourage teaching peers. Which brings me to the next topic…
- Apparatus/studio access: If you’re doing Reformer or Comprehensive training, make sure you’ll have enough practice time on the equipment and a space to practice. Some studios will require you to rent the studio for your self-practice. Others may offer it for free between teaching slots.
The Teachers Matter
This might sound obvious—but it’s a game changer.
Ask yourself:
- Who will be my teacher(s)?
- Do I connect with their teaching style?
- Do they seem supportive, clear and grounded?
- Would I feel comfortable learning from them over several months?
💡 Hot Tip: Try to take a class with the teachers involved in the training (or watch a recorded class if available).
Red Flags to Watch Out For
Especially if you’re aiming to teach professionally:
- Hidden costs: Some programs appear affordable but don’t include essentials like anatomy modules, manuals or final exam fees. Make sure to ask what’s actually included in the price—sometimes what looks like a bargain ends up being more expensive once all the add-ons are factored in
- Curriculum feels disorganized or vague
- Promises of “fast-track” certification with minimal hours
- No teaching practice or feedback component
- Prices that seem too good to be true (they often are)
Listen to Your Gut
Sometimes, it’s not about ticking every box—it’s about how the communication feels:
Do the emails or messages feel warm, professional and supportive?
Do you feel excited or hesitant after talking to the team?
Your intuition knows. Trust it.
A Final Thought: Choose with Intention
At the end of the day, it all comes down to what you want to learn—and the direction you see yourself going in. Classical, contemporary or fitness-based Pilates? (If you have just started practicing Pilates, these styles may be new or even completely irrelevant to you.) Depending on your choice, there are different paths and training formats that may suit you better.
After completing two trainings myself, I’ve realized that what I’m truly longing for now is a comprehensive, international-level teacher training—the kind I initially thought I had signed up for.. Some fast-paced or fitness-focused programs don’t teach the full repertoire or how to work with different levels and bodies. You only notice this once you start teaching—or when you observe other classes and realize: Wait, I’ve never even learned that classic or contemporary Pilates exercise.
That’s why choosing a training aligned with your long-term vision matters so much. These days, many people rush to get “certified” as quickly as possible, but that’s often where deeper Pilates knowledge is missing. Internationally recognized programs take time, yes—but I believe that’s also where the true foundation of Pilates lies. I say “believe,” because I haven’t experienced one yet myself. But I know my next training will be internationally recognized—and I look forward to expanding both my understanding and my skill set.
That said, the choice is entirely yours. And like I mentioned earlier: the learning never stops. You can always begin in one direction and build from there. Just know that in the years to come, one of the big questions in the Pilates world will likely be: What is real Pilates? And in my opinion, it’s not just about fast-paced classes packed with planks and lunges. It’s about understanding the deeper principles the method is built on—and teaching from that place of knowledge and integrity.
Got questions or thoughts? Reach out anytime.
— Siri
Article: From Hollywood to Sydney: Maria Leone brings her bold Pilates to Australia (The Pilates Journal)
Article: Choosing the Right Teacher Training Program (PilatesAnytime)
Article: How to Choose the Right Pilates Certification Course (Polestar)
Leone, M. (2025). From Hollywood to Sydney: Maria Leone brings her bold Pilates to Australia. The Pilates Journal (Issue 29), 10-11. LINK
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