Potential Pilates clients should be aware that some Pilates certifications require less training than others.
Some certifications only cover the mat work- just one part of the Pilates method. Some require little training- and other certifications are rigorous.
A fully certified Pilates instructor undergoes a thorough course that adds up to hundreds of hours of training and studying. They learn the entire method including The Mat work and exercises taught on all of the Pilates apparatus.
The terms “authentic, classical, real, original” Pilates link to Pilates instructors trained by Romana Kryzanowska.
Romana Kryzanowska’s original certification program The Pilates Method of body conditioning and The Pilates Studio in New York City required a minimum of 75 pre-requisite sessions with a certified instructor.
To enter the program one had to pass an audition consisting of performing the intermediate level exercises on the mat and all the Pilates apparatus as well as an interview. The certification began with a 12 day intensive seminar of approximately 100 hours.
This was followed by an apprenticeship of at least 600 hours, which included observation of fully certified instructors, private session training, supervised teaching by a teacher of teachers, attendance of meetings and self training.
Three practical exams and three written exams (200 hours-basic, 400 hours- intermediate, 600 hours- advanced and full system) must be passed before the apprentice could receive a full and authentic certification to teach the Pilates method.
After gaining full certification the Pilates instructor undergoes an annual Continuing education seminar.
Suzanne McCarty from BMS is fully certified by the Pilates Method of Body Conditioning, New York, 2000.
