Why does it take so long to become a Pilates teacher?

With the rise of Pilates studios, many people are curious about becoming a teacher themselves. If you’re considering this path, the first question that often arises is: Why does it take so long?

The truth is, teaching Pilates well cannot be rushed. A Classical Pilates education, such as the one offered through Smart Movement International and Altum Academy, takes time. Usually at least 9 months to a year.

A Comprehensive Journey

In the first 6–8 months, students attend pre-training and seminars to deeply understand each Pilates exercise across the full apparatus system. Beyond learning choreography, it’s about grasping the essence of the work.

During this time, students must complete hundreds of hours of:

• Observation of experienced teachers

• Practice teaching under guidance

• Self-practice to truly feel the work in their own bodies

On top of that, mentorship plays a central role. Every week, students attend live mentorship sessions with Master Trainer Ole Eugenio, alongside ongoing guidance from Altum’s Mentor Educators. Altogether, the process accounts for at least 500 hours of study and practice.

Why Time Matters

There are no shortcuts to becoming a great teacher. Pilates is not about memorising a script or counting out repetitions. Every cue must be purposeful. Every touch must elevate and respect the client.

At Altum, we emphasise self-practice because only when you feel the work can you guide others to find it in their own bodies.

Take, for example, Swan on the Push Thru Bar. Before a client progresses to the full exercise, they must first master the preparatory thoracic extension - a shape that can take months of practice to achieve without straining the lower back. A tight rib cage might mean working on the Baby Arm Chair first. Understanding these progressions isn’t theoretical. It’s embodied knowledge that comes only through consistent practice and mentorship.

Pilates is a system, not a single modality. Each piece of apparatus works together to support, challenge, and prepare the body for the next step.

The Problem with “Fast-Track” Certifications

In today’s fitness industry, it’s easy to find weekend certifications or short online courses that claim to make you a Pilates instructor. These often cover only one apparatus (usually the Reformer) and focus on group-class choreography rather than the full system.

Some studios have even turned Pilates into a spectacle of lights, music, and eye-catching routines. What’s missing are the six movement principles that Joseph Pilates built his method upon: Concentration, Control, Centering, Breathing, Flow, and Precision.

While these courses may provide a quick certificate, graduates often struggle to find work in authentic Pilates studios that uphold the integrity of the system.

Pilates as Art and Science

Pilates is not a quick fitness trend. It is both an art and a science, and above all, a deep study of movement. Choosing where and how to train as a teacher is a serious decision.

We encourage prospective students to:

• Visit studios and experience the work firsthand

• Speak with mentors and trainers about their approach

• Take private sessions to see if their teaching style resonates with you

At Altum, we take this process seriously.

If you’re considering a career in Pilates, take the time to do your research and choose wisely. The path may be long, but it’s the only way to truly honour the method and become the kind of teacher clients trust with their bodies.