Pilates is of the world’s top fitness trends. Even though it has over five decades of staying power, it continues to reach new people and encourage positive lifestyle and activity changes daily.

If you want to become a Pilates teacher, it’ll take some commitment on your part. It’s not something that happens during a single weekend like a group fitness instructor course.

Here’s what you can expect when you start looking for a reputable program to become a teacher.

1. Immerse Yourself in the Curriculum

Before you can teach others, you need to learn more about your body. Take as many Pilates classes as you can, practice consistently, and immerse yourself in the curriculum. If you have an idea of what to expect as a student, it’s much easier to become an effective teacher.

2. Decide Between Mat and Comprehensive

If you have a mat certification, you can teach group classes similar to what you’ll find with most gym memberships. If you pursue a comprehensive curriculum, you can train and teach clients using traditional Pilates equipment. When your goal is to become a full-time instructor, the latter option is the best choice.

3. Research Programs in Your Area

A comprehensive Pilates certification is about ten times more expensive than one that only includes mat work. The cost difference might drive some would-be instructors away, but it is also an investment in your future. In addition, you’ll find some courses are more contemporary than classical (or reverse), so you’ll want to review what choices feel natural for your teaching style.

Reputable programs should offer at least 500 training hours with student teaching and direct practice. The modules take place over several months, and they should have recognition from the Pilates Method Alliance or another nationally or internationally recognized association.

4. Stay Motivated

It takes a lot of time and energy to pursue a Pilates certificate. If you want to get a comprehensive education, most programs require an enrollment of at least 12 months. Although this investment puts demands on your schedule, many programs have enough flexibility to help you work around your calendar and overall goals.

Your program should require testing. That means you’ll need to pass a hands-on and written assessment before moving on to the next module.

5. Find a Mentor

You can become a Pilates teacher on your own, but it is much easier to stay focused and accountable to this investment with a mentor by your side. Finding someone who can help you work through the certification and help you find student teaching opportunities is invaluable, especially if you’re working full-time.

6. Get Liability Insurance

Most studios require Pilates teachers to have liability insurance as an independent contractor, sole proprietor, or single-person LLC. Even if you work by yourself under a business you’ve started, this protection is helpful if someone gets hurt during your instruction.

You can also acquire association certification through the Pilates Method Alliance and others. Once you start teaching others, you’ll find that you never stop growing and learning as an instructor. That’s why it is so much fun to start this journey!