The most important qualification for a Pilates teacher is…

When you think about what it takes to become a Pilates teacher what’s the first thing that pops into your head?  Did you immediately think that the person has to be fit, strong, and able to do the exercises really well?  If you answered yes…you are wrong.  

Fit, strong and able to do the exercises in your body are all things that will happen when you study and practice the Pilates method but they are definitely not prerequisites or important qualifications for becoming a Pilates teacher.  

Intelligence…. yep that’s right you need to be smart!  

1. Not only do you need to be able to know how to do exercises in your body you need to be able to explain to another person how to do the exercises in their body.  
2. You need to be able to understand basic anatomy and movement principles and then translate those ideas into a fun, motivating session while keeping everyone in your class moving safely.
3. You need to learn to be an expert at deciphering how people learn the best and then presenting  information to them in the way that is most effective for them.  
4. You need to be able to watch someone move and then based on what you see give them cues to help them engage and a move in a way that is more balanced.  
5. You need to be able to plan movement sequences and take a group of people through those movements while constantly monitoring everyone’s movements to check for safety.   

If you think Pilates teachers just need to be good movers or good at exercise…think again.  It takes intelligence and the willingness to learn new knowledge and skills to become a Pilates teacher.  Do you love learning and moving? Becoming a Pilates teacher can be a great way to challenge your mind and combine your love of movement and helping others into a career or really fun part time hobby!