My Pilates teacher training experience: the one thing I wish I'd known

If I could pass on one lesson from my Pilates teacher training experience, it would be this: invest in quality training from the start, because the cheap, quick route can end up costing you far more. My name is Melissa, and I qualified as a Pilates instructor twice, first through a short online course and then properly at Pilates Dynamics. Here is what I learned, and what I wish I had known before I began.

How my Pilates journey started

Change is scary. Just thinking about it can have you shaking in your boots, but once you start, you become more in tune with yourself and freer to embrace it. When I was asked to write about my journey, I hoped it might help someone in the position I was once in.

I fell in love with Pilates after a friend suggested we take private sessions together once a week. I enjoyed them so much that I wanted to understand the method properly and teach it. I found an online course that promised I would be a qualified instructor in three months. It was cheap and quick, and that was enough to sell me.

The problem with a quick, cheap qualification

I finished the course, “qualified”, and left my day job to teach. Then I struggled. Every interview went badly and nobody told me why. Looking back, the reason is obvious: I didn’t have the depth of knowledge or the teaching skills that studios look for.

A friend had trained at Pilates Dynamics, and I had looked into it before. At the time the difference in cost and length compared with the online course seemed so large that I chose the shortcut. It cost me much more than money.

What I wish I had known

• A short online course can’t prepare you for real clients with real injuries and movement restrictions.
• Studios test your knowledge and your teaching when you apply, so gaps show quickly.
• Access to equipment, experienced instructors and supervised teaching matters as much as the theory.
• It’s best to work at a reputable studio first, before starting your own business.

My Pilates teacher training experience at Pilates Dynamics

The first day I walked into Pilates Dynamics, I felt the difference. I was shown around, introduced to the equipment and all my questions were answered. I was amazed at how quickly the instructor analysed my body, adapted the exercises, and let me use small equipment and large machines I had never had access to before. There was conviction in her voice and no stumbling over cues. I knew straight away that this investment in myself was the best thing I could do for my struggling career.

There are no shortcuts to becoming a good instructor. Once you’re in a real studio, you realise how much there is to learn. I made time for my studies, and having a full year from my start date to finish took the pressure off. Today I’m a fully qualified Pilates instructor with the knowledge and confidence I was missing before.

What made the difference

• In-depth lectures covering anatomy, modifications and contra-indications
• A course manual and exercise videos to study from
• Time in the studio to practise, observe classes and teach under supervision
• Small groups, so the lecturers got to know how each of us was progressing

Worried about the cost?

I was too. What helped was that Pilates Dynamics offers payment plans, so I could start studying while paying over a few months. For current fees and dates, it’s worth downloading the info pack and comparing what is included, not only the price. The post on Pilates instructor course cost is a good place to start.

I remember being stressed about a qualification that couldn’t get me a proper job, and wondering if I’d ever become a certified instructor. If I had understood then the value of quality training over something cheap and quick, I would have done right by my dreams the first time.

Frequently asked questions

Is an online-only Pilates course enough?

In my experience, no. You need supervised practice with real clients and access to equipment to teach confidently.

Can I study while working?

Yes. You have up to a year to finish, practical hours are flexible, and private lectures can be arranged.

Start your own training

If my story sounds familiar, take a look at the Pilates Dynamics teacher training courses, download the info pack, or read how to become a Pilates instructor step by step. You can also call 072 999 2229 or 011 792 5459, or email info@pilatesdynamics.co.za.