If you’re old enough to remember when online degrees were first offered, then you know how employers were hesitant to take them seriously. In those early days of Internet-based learning, the education quality you received was considered secondary to what you could get from in-person instruction.
When you look at the Pilates teacher training online options available right now, you’ll see a similar perspective in the community. Although you can receive a high-quality education with tools like Zoom, the idea that you aren’t getting a return for your investment still percolates.
Are you looking for Pilates certification in New York City? If so, online classes might be the right way to embrace this new element of your life’s journey.
How Does Online Pilates Instruction Work?
An online Pilates certification works the same way as any other course you’d take near your home. That means your due diligence for finding a reputable program follows a similar path.
Here are the elements you’ll want to review before signing up to take online Pilates classes to become an instructor.
- How long has the studio been teaching? Although everyone needs to get started somewhere, you’ll find that a teacher with 20 years of experience has more practical insights to offer than someone in their first year as an instructor.
- How affordable is the course? The best Pilates classes tell you what to expect for cost and time commitments before signing up for them. Most provide flexible payment plans without any hidden charges.
- Is the coursework accessible anywhere? Online Pilates classes should let you work at your own pace as you study online. Although there is a certification schedule to consider, you won’t need to deal with the hassle of fighting through traffic or riding the subway to get to the studio to learn.
- Is it inclusive? The best Pilates teaches come in all different sizes, shapes, and ages. Your background and personality are tremendous assets that can help others! If you find a studio more concerned about your background (except for background checks) than your desire to be of service, it’s time to find a better learning environment.
If you find someone offering to teach Pilates for $7,500 or more, the discussion should involve full equipment certification. That means 250 to 500 hours of instruction, training, and hands-on experiences to help you grow as a teacher.
When that cost is for a mat teacher certification only, you’re likely paying more than you need to be to get the education you want.
What About Specialty Pilates Certificates?
Once you receive an equipment certificate or its equivalent in Pilates, you can pursue a specialty course.
Although a few options are available online for your continuing education, you’ll typically need to work with several materials in a hybrid setting. After COVID-19, you’ll find the classroom work is often digital while the hands-on portion is in the studio.
If you’re looking for Pilates teacher training opportunities online in NYC, you have some options. Do your research, don’t settle for the first place that meets your schedule or budgetary needs, and remember to have fun!