Pilates Teacher Training FAQS

Q: Why study at Ritual?

A: At our studio, we are proud to offer a unique and comprehensive training experience that sets us apart from the rest. Our course facilitators Rose and Sophie bring a wealth of national and international training to the table, including (essence, breathe, polestar) and have curated a program that draws on their most impactful experiences. We are dedicated to staying true to the Pilates Method while incorporating modern techniques and modifications. Unlike other studios that focus solely on classical or contemporary approaches, we offer a balance of both the original contrology repertoire from Joseph Pilates in the 1920s and the latest innovations. Furthermore, as one of the only studios to offer face-to-face training and immediate mentorship opportunities, we firmly believe in the key role this plays in the success of our students.

Q: Is your training registered with an organisation?

A: At Ritual, we provide Pilates Teacher Training as a level 1 mat course. However, please note that this course does not include barre training as they are two different styles of training. If you do decide to further your studies after completing the mat course, such as barre or reformer, you will receive an alumni discount.

In Australia, there are several ways to obtain certification to teach Pilates. The main options are: certification through industry recognition, certification through an RTO diploma, or certification through accredited Fitness Australia courses. Ultimately, the choice of which option to pursue depends on your personal preferences and goals.

While an RTO course is a great option, it can be more expensive (ranging from $4000 to $7000) and may take up to three years to complete. Registering with Fitness Australia is beneficial if you already have your Cert 3 and 4 in fitness, and you are looking to accrue CEC points towards your credentials. However, recognition from Fitness Australia is not necessary for working in boutique Pilates studios, as they are not governed by this organisation. However, some larger gyms may require CEC points.

Lastly, boutique studios recognize industry certification as a viable option. Upon certification, you will be eligible for insurance and can start teaching.

Please let me know if you have any further questions. I'm here to help!

Q: Can Pilates mat instructor training improve my mental health?

A: Yes, Pilates matwork exercises can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression by promoting relaxation, mindfulness, and overall well-being. Many people find Pilates to be a therapeutic and rejuvenating form of exercise.

Q: Do I need to be flexible to take a Pilates matwork course?

A: No, you don't need to be flexible to take a Pilates matwork course. In fact, Pilates can help you improve your flexibility over time.

Q: What are the prerequisites for Pilates matwork instructor training?

A: We only required you to have genuine interest and passion to learn about the Pilates method.

Q: How long does it take to become qualified?

A: This training is designed to be completed at your own pace, allowing you to tailor your progress to your individual needs. On average, most individuals complete the course within 3-6 months, although it is possible to complete it more quickly if you are eager to start teaching as soon as possible. 

Q: What topics are covered in your Pilates matwork instructor training?

A: Our course covers a range of topics, including anatomy and physiology, Pilates principles and techniques, class sequencing and programming, teaching skills and methods, and business management skills.

Q: What are the benefits of becoming a Pilates matwork instructor?

A: Becoming a Pilates matwork instructor offers many benefits, including the ability to help others achieve their fitness goals, the opportunity to work in a dynamic and growing field, and the potential for personal and professional growth.

Q: How much does Pilates matwork instructor training cost?

A: We truly value the quality of our instructors and believe that providing the best training at an affordable price is crucial to our success. When you explore the details of each course, you'll notice that there is a listed price. We want to bring to your attention that the cost of our course includes a 50-pilates mat at our studio in Palm Beach plus ongoing support and a community class for you to gain teaching experience. Most studios do not include this and make you pay extra for the required professional development hours.

Q: What certification or credentials do I need to become a Pilates matwork instructor?

A: In Australia, there are basically three routes to become a Pilates instructor:

1- A Certificate course (this course)

2- A Certificate IV in Pilates

3-  A Diploma in Pilates

The ideal solution for you will depend on a variety of criteria, including:

• how you prefer to study (format of learning)
• How soon you want to be qualified
• budget

RITUAL STUDIO is not an Australian Registered Training Organization at this time. The reason being that RITUAL does not want to offer a Certificate IV or Diploma in Pilates. In Australia, finishing a Certificate IV/Diploma programme as opposed to a certificate programme does not offer any significant advantages. An RTO course can last from 6 to 12 months and can cost between $4,000 and $5,000. We are aware that the majority of students need quick access to detailed and quality education so they can start teaching as soon as possible. Our studio seeks to deliver students with high-quality education that really explores the body's anatomy and physiology in a nurturing setting where they can feel confident to be competent to teach in a short amount of time.

Q: Can I work without an RTO certification?

A: Yes! You are qualified to work in Pilates studios, and allied Health clinics that offer Pilates sessions, independent gyms, major health clubs (if you also hold a Certificate III or IV in Fitness), or from your own home, a nearby park, or a town hall after completing your RITUAL Pilates Matwork course.

A Pilates Matwork Level 1 certificate is the minimum certification needed for the majority of businesses.

**If you want to work for one of the large gym chains, like Fitness First, they may, according to their internal employment criteria, require a minimum of a Certificate III or IV in Fitness to work at these gyms. This is because of an internal employment policy based on the companies insurance and internal legaliities, not because these organisations do not recognise a level 1 Pilates Matwork Certification from our studio.

Q: Does my certificate expire?

A: No! Your certification has no expiry date!

Q: I'm scared of teaching in front of people, how can I overcome this fear? 

A: That's okay! We've got you covered. Our program is designed to boost your confidence and help you expand your comfort zone. Before you know it, you'll be leading a group of clients with ease. And the best part? When you're guiding a workout, it's all about your clients, so there's no need to worry about anyone focusing on you. The more you focus on helping your clients, the less self-conscious you'll become and the better your teaching will be. 

Q: Will I be too old or not fit enough to be a Pilates instructor? 

A:  We'll teach you how to empower your clients with fearless, joyful movement, just like we'll teach you. Age and fitness level don't matter - what's important is that you understand the proper shape and movement sequence for each exercise. If you struggle with a move, we'll show you how to modify it to suit your abilities and guide you to build your strength, flexibility, and balance. The key to being a great instructor is not being perfect at every move, it's inspiring, guiding, and coaching your clients with expert cueing, programming, and caring.

Q: Why do I need to complete Matwork before Reformer? 

A: Unlike other Pilates instructor programs, we require students to complete the Matwork Course before advancing to Reformer training. This is because the Matwork Course provides a comprehensive introduction to the Pilates fundamentals, including proper breathing techniques, spinal positions, abdominal activation, and shoulder/neck positioning. It's worth noting that the majority of Reformer exercises have their roots in Matwork, making it imperative to master the original exercises before progressing to more advanced equipment-based training.